FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the questions we hear most. Can't find yours? Email us at cmoz@tinkertailor.ca.

ESP32 Development Boards

What do I need to get started?

You'll need a USB data cable. Most of our ESP32 boards use USB-C, so check the product page for your board's connector. Many cables are charge-only and won't work for programming, so if your computer doesn't see the board, try a different cable first. Our boards work with Arduino IDE, PlatformIO, ESP-IDF and MicroPython.

Can I use these for wearable tech?

Yes. Many of our ESP32 boards are compact enough for wearables, and they include WiFi and Bluetooth for wireless projects. You can solder wires directly to the pads, or solder Electro Loops (ring terminals) so you can connect with conductive thread.

What power supply do I need?

ESP32 boards run on 3.3V logic and accept 5V through USB. For portable projects, a USB power bank works well. For rechargeable power, our Lithium Battery Charging Board charges a 3.7V LiPo battery over USB-C. Some boards also have a battery connector and built-in charging, so check the product page for your board. We don't currently stock LiPo batteries, so you'll need to source one separately.

Conductive Fabrics

How do I cut and sew conductive fabric?

Cut it with sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter, just like regular fabric. You can sew it with conductive thread to make circuit traces, or use it as a touch sensor surface. Seal the cut edges with a small drop of Fraycheck to stop loose fibres from causing short circuits.

Is conductive fabric safe for skin contact?

Nickel-copper fabrics should not be placed directly against skin for long periods. Put a layer of regular fabric between the conductive layer and your skin. Silver-based fabrics are generally better tolerated for short contact, but everyone's skin is different. If you notice irritation, stop using it. If you have a known nickel sensitivity, choose silver-based fabrics and keep them away from skin.

Can I wash conductive fabric?

Washing will gradually wear down the conductive coating, especially on silver fabrics, and poor water quality can damage silver. If you need to wash a project, test a small swatch in your tap water first and consider using distilled water. Some discolouration over time is normal.

What can I make with conductive fabric?

Touch sensors, soft buttons, pressure sensors, antenna shielding, Faraday cages and wearable circuit traces. Our YouTube channel, CMozMaker, has project tutorials.

WS2812B LED Rings and Strips

How many LEDs can I drive from one ESP32 pin?

An ESP32 can drive far more than 30 WS2812B LEDs from a single data pin. The limit is usually power, not the pin. Each LED can draw around 60 mA at full white, so for longer strips use an external 5V power supply, connect its ground to the ESP32 ground, and add a logic level shifter on the data line for reliable signals.

Do I need a capacitor?

For projects with more than 10 LEDs, add a 1000 µF capacitor across the power input. This helps prevent voltage spikes that can damage the first LED.

Are these sewable?

Some are. The single WS2812B pixel module has sewable pads. NIBBLES arrives without wires or terminals, so you solder on your own wires or Electro Loops, which you can then sew through with conductive thread. Our LED rings are made for soldering, and the 24-LED ring is available non-soldered, with wires included, or with wires soldered, so choose the option on the product page.

Shipping

How much is shipping and how long does it take?

Rates, free shipping thresholds and delivery times are listed on our Shipping Policy page, which is always kept up to date.