This page details the activities outline for the LittlePay workshop at Science Gallery Melbourne on 22 August 2025.

Pre-workshop activity

We will start with a blind drawing activity.

Draw a computer or digital technology that played an important role in your early life — maybe your first computer, a family gaming console, or even an old mobile phone. Do this without looking at the paper while you draw (you can peek when you’re done!).

This isn’t about being a great artist — it’s a way to loosen up and engage with memory and emotion before we dive into more reflective making.

Once you’ve finished your drawing, take a few minutes to write about:

• What is this technology?
• What role did it play in your life?
• How do you feel about it now?

Discuss in pairs or small groups if you have time. We will use this memory as a basis for our afternoon workshop making.

Workshop Introduction

The afternoon session will follow this structure:

• Introduction to embroidering and soft circuits (30 minutes)
• Individual and collaborative making (90 minutes)
• Playing and sharing (30 minutes)

Introduction

• Brief welcome and overview of the session.
• Emphasis on creative exploration, collaboration, and multisensory memory-making.

Introducing Embroidery

Materials Overview

• Embroidery Hoops – how to secure fabric, with the option to flip for easier drawing.
• Needles & Threads – thread types, threading tips, and basic handling.
• Basic Stitches – quick demo of:
  • Running stitch
  • Backstitch
  • Satin stitch

Tips:

• Flipping the hoop upside down can offer a smoother surface for initial sketching with thread.
• Don’t worry about perfection — embrace expressive, gestural stitches.

Introduction to Electronics + Copper Tape

• Basics of circuits using copper tape.
• How copper tape integrates into the embroidery process.
• Introduction to the circuit layout you’ll be plugging into.
• Brief explanation of the Bela board for sound activation.

Directive for Art-Making: Memory, Senses & Stitching

Use your hoop to explore and express memory, combining stitching and simple circuits.

Prompts:

• Transpose your blind drawing onto fabric.
• Add text or reflections from this morning’s session.
• Think about different senses in your memory — how might they influence form, color, or texture?
• Plan your copper tape layout:
  • Visualize the path of your circuit.
  • Use satin stitch to hide the tape if desired.

Collaborate & Connect

At the Collaboration Table:

• Connect your circuit with others’.
• Plug into the Bela to create interactive sounds.
• Improvise, jam, and explore collective compositions.

Before Sharing:

• Ensure your circuit has:
  • A full connection
  • A clip point for Bela
• Test your circuit with others — what does it activate? What do you discover?

Wrap up

• Walk around and interact with others’ designs.
• Optional: End with a group reflection — what emerged in the making process?