SAM TOPLEY

Stitch-a-Synth is a workshop project where we create unique e-textile musical instruments on canvas banners. Using either simple electronic circuits or microcontrollers, the participants of a Stitch-a-Synth workshop design and sew their own synthesiser to take away. The instruments are played by touching the handcrafted interfaces and can make a variety of sounds (dependent on the type of circuits used) - from beeping tones to playful glissandi!

Each instrument is unique to its maker and handcrafted with electronic textile materials (conductive thread and fabric), fabric scraps and colourful threads, using embroidery and appliqué techniques. Through the process of making our instruments, we discover the potential of e-textile materials and learn how we can be creative with simple electronic circuits. Also in the workshops, we explore ways of making music with our new DIY synthesisers (individually and together in the group), by improvising, following simple scores and collaboratively sharing musical ideas. Following the workshop, the canvas banners can then be taken home to be hung upon the wall, alongside the participants' favourite artwork and posters!

Topics:

• Experimental music making

• DIY electronics

• Electronic textiles (e-textiles)

• Textile handcrafts (embroidery and appliqué)

No prior knowledge or skills are required. This workshop is a great introduction to e-textiles, experimental music and DIY electronics. It can be tailored to be suitable for adults and children alike (suitable for ages 7+).

To enquire about booking this workshop for your group or event, please contact Sam.

Read more about this project in Sam's PhD thesis.