What's going on, creative night owls and DIY enthusiasts!
I've just wrapped up a project that's close to my heart—a custom-made, 3D-printed light painting wand. This isn't your ordinary flashlight; it's a magical brush that paints the night with an explosion of colors. Crafted as a one-of-a-kind present for a family member, it's designed to turn the darkness into a canvas for brilliant artworks.
The wand's head packs a punch with around 60 tiny LEDs, all individually addressable, alongside a powerful 10W RGB LED that's like the sun of this handheld universe. Whether you want a subtle glow or a full-on disco, the firmware's got you covered with an array of patterns that'll make your light painting dreams come true.
At its core, an ESP32 hums along, running custom firmware that's the brain behind the beauty. And operation? A piece of cake, thanks to three buttons for menu navigation. The tiny OLED screen is your trusty guide, showing you exactly what spell you're casting with your light wand.
Power this monstrosity is done via a USB-C port, modern, fast, and convenient - sadly you still need to carry a power pack in your pockets. But let's not forget the finishing touch: a specially ordered, milky white acrylic sheet upfront, diffusing the LEDs' glow into a soft, dreamlike radiance.
Imagine standing in the pitch black, your arm waving through the cool air, and where your hand moves, colors burst and dance, leaving trails only your camera can catch. That’s the magic this light painting wand brings to the table—or should I say, to the night.
So here's to adding a splash of light to the dark, to making art where there was none, and to personal gifts that shine brighter than stars. May your nights be merry and your art bright!