Felted Paper Circuits Using Joomchi

Abstract

The integration of electronics and paper is a burgeoning topic for tangible interaction. Here we show how to use the Korean technique of hand-felting paper known as joomchi to embed electronics in paper after the sheet forming process. This method requires the use of specialized papers that are amenable to joomchi. We present embedded LEDs, multi-layer circuit "sheets", and speakers. While labor-intensive, joomchi both enables one to completely integrate paper and electronics, while also making tangible connections between ancient and modern craft.