Discuss Eric Clemens's answer to: How to Make an LED Display Board

Make an LED Display Board is easy as a cake:

1

Start off with a piece of cardboard. Cut the cardboard the size and shape you want your display. Spray-paint the cardboard any color you want, if you desire. You can be creative with the cardboard and paint it any way you like, using different colors and patterns if you desire.
2

Measure and mark a grid with spaces 3/4 inch apart on the cardboard. Drill small 1/16-inch holes using a hand-held drill or a drill press if you have one. If you have neither, a sharp pencil will work.


3

Put the LEDs through the holes. Run the column wires down the back of the array, and run the row wires across to the front. This makes it easier to keep the wires from touching each other and shorting out. The positive ends of the LEDs are connected electrically. This means the negative ends connect to each other. Soldering the wires provides the connection and support for the wires between the LEDs.
4

Connect the positive end of the wires of the LEDs to the positive end on the battery holder. Connect the negative end of the wires of the LEDs to the negative end of the battery holder. You can solder these wires, but if you do not have a solder kit, you can twist the wires.
5

Light up the LEDs by inserting the batteries into the holder. When the batteries are inserted, the LEDs light up. Pull one battery out when you want to turn off the display.