What types of instruments and interfaces can I make with a Makey Makey?

Think About

What kind of instrument or interface do I want to create?

What ideas can I borrow from other people?

Where can I go for inspiration in creating an instrument or interface?

Getting Started

With some skills and knowledge, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating an instrument or interface! Sometimes it is helpful to look at what other people do to get some ideas or inspiration.

What is the Makey Makey?

The Makey Makey is a device which enables you to create a “controller” or “triggering device” out of any material that can conduct electricity including metal, fruit, etc. It works by completing an electrical circuit through the conductive material and triggering actions that are determined by the way you or someone else sets up related software. 

What can I do with a Makey Makey?

1. Take a look at some of the instruments and interfaces created with a Makey Makey in this video:

2. Take a look at the instruments and interfaces in the Makey Makey project gallery.  

• At the bottom of each page click “older posts” to see more videos
• If you want to view a larger version of the videos, click on the “YouTube” icon in the bottom right corner of each video.

3. Look at one or more of the following Makey Makey intrument and interface projects:

• A tutorial for making a conductive ink sampler
• Create an arcade button MIDI controller with the Makey Makey
• Augment an existing instrument with a Makey Makey
• An interactive soundboard to play a melody

4. Look through one or more of the following Makey Makey Guides (choose one that involves sound or music)

Go Further

1. Focus on one or two of the instruments or interfaces that you find most interesting or closest to what you might want to create.
2. Watch the video(s) or read the information for your selection(s) to learn more about those instruments and interfaces
3. What ideas does this give you for creating your own instrument?

Go Even Further (optional)

If you want to find even more instruments and interfaces that people make, check out these sites and search for “Makey Makey” 

• Instructables
• MakeZine Projects (click on the magnifying glass – search for Makey Makey – and then click the “projects” box)

Share What You Learned

1. Share a link to the instrument(s) that you find most interesting or inspiring
2. Discuss what ideas the instrument gives you for creating your own instrument