Introduction: Circuit Playground Snow Globe

This is a snow globe that serves as a reminder to keep in touch with loved ones when you are apart for the holidays!

Supplies

  • Circuit Playground
  • snow globe kit
  • battery pack (and AAA batteries)
  • 2 wires
  • buzzer
  • NFC tag
  • cardboard tube
  • electrical tape
  • fake snow (glitter/shredded mylar)
  • distilled water
  • Adhesive (hot glue/super glue/E6000 glue/velcro)
  • X-acto knife
  • Small decorations to put inside (or cut a thin sheet of plastic into tree shapes and glue glitter on the edges to create a snowy effect)

Step 1: Programming the Circuit Playground

The MakeCode for this project can be found here: https://makecode.com/_Ty8DDFdwJbrr. The first photo shows a shortened version of the code, with a call function block in place of the song. The full code is split into the other three images. I don't recommend placing the song inside a function block, as this interferes with the 'stop all sounds' block, and the song will overlap if you shake it again while it is still playing. To make programming the song easier (if you choose to use a different song), I would recommend picking one that has repeating sections and that does not require too many chords.

Step 2: Setting Up the NFC Tag

Attach the NFC tag to the wall of the snow globe's base and mark the outside to indicate where to tap your phone. I used the Shortcuts app to trigger an automated message, but this part is very customizable. If you have an old hotel key card or credit card you can reuse them as NFC tags!

Step 3: Making Connections

Connect the buzzer and battery to the Circuit Playground. I used electrical tape to connect a wire from the positive side of the buzzer to the A0 pin and another from the negative side to the ground nearest ground pin. Soldering would also work great here.

Secure the battery pack and buzzer to the bottom of the cardboard base. I cut a small hole in the bottom for the buzzer and a larger one to access the power switch on the battery.

Step 4: Setting Up the Base

Attach the sides of the cardboard tube to the base, and attach the circuit playground to the screw-on lid of the snow globe kit.

Step 5: Filling the Globe

Glue decorations to the inner seal piece of the snow globe kit. I added extra glitter to the bottom to look like fallen snow, but it is not very visible once the water is added so it isn't necessary. Fill the globe with distilled water, leaving a gap for the glitter, decorations, and a bit of extra space so the water can move around. You can also add glycerin to the water, which will slow the movement of the fake snow and give it a more peaceful effect. Use a waterproof glue to glue the inner seal, then screw the globe on to the base!