Light-Up Glasses

Choose a frame shape and print the template. We'll use the "Round Glasses Template" for this tutorial, but the steps are the same for all frame shapes.

Cut out the template frames and temples (the arms that go over the ears).

Use a craft knife to cut out the interior lenses.

To the recycling bin!

We've found that the best material for this project is cereal boxes (also look for similar household packaging like swiffers or soda 12 pack containers.)

If your recycling bin is empty, use thin sheets of cardboard (available to purchase online).

Trace the template onto the back of your material with a marker.

Use a push pin or awl to make holes through the cardboard as shown on the template, where the LEDs will go.

Mark the fold lines as well.

Use scissors and/or a craft knife to cut out the shapes.

Push the LEDs through the holes on the frames, with the Positive (Long Leg) facing away from the center.

Fold the temples along the line.

Add glue to the bottom of the connector piece as shown.

Thread the LED through the holes, aligning it with the frames to glue the temples in place.

Use the template as a guide to add a piece of Maker Tape across the top of the frames, connecting the shorter, Negative legs of the LEDs.

Fold the shorter, innermost legs down flat against the Maker Tape.

Secure them in place with another piece of Maker Tape on top as shown.

Make a small loop of Maker Tape with the adhesive side out as shown, and place it on the Negative side of the battery.

Place the battery on top of the piece of Maker Tape, making sure it is centered on the bridge of the frame.

Repeat the same on the bottom, connecting the piece of Maker Tape to the top of the battery as shown.

Use a second piece of Maker Tape to connect the LED, and add a piece of Maker Tape on top of the LED's leg, just like the previous step.

With the circuit connected, it should light up! Check that both LEDs are illuminated, and if not, check the circuit connections on each side.

Try on the frames - chances are, they are too small!

Reference the sizing guide on the temple tips and choose the appropriate size for your head (start small, you can always go bigger!)

Cut the template to size, trace the new line onto the temples, and cut away the extra material.

Your new frames are ready to wear!

But wait, there's more! This project gets even more fun when you decorate your frames to express your unique style.

Decorate the frames with common craft supplies, or use our embellishment templates to create party wear for holidays throughout the year.

As an optional step, use the lens templates to add lenses to your glasses.

We used hot glue to attach colored acetate sheets to make these glasses extra cool!

After you've decorated, wear your glasses for all to see!

More on these designs:

Easter Bunny Glasses

Rainbow / Shamrock

Disco Shudder Shades

Upcycled Glasses

Happy Birthday / New Year