Soldering

last modified: October 23, 2025

MicroMaTch Connector to Breadboard in 5 Minutes

Posted on 2021-03-22— 3D Printing, Build

I show how to adapt a MicroMaTch SMD connector to a breadboard using a striped prototyping board in under five minutes. I walk through cutting, scraping copper, and soldering a pin header so you can quickly test or swap modules—read the full post for step-by-step photos and tips.

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Snowflake Component Side

Posted on 2017-11-14— Projects

I walk through assembling the component side of my snowflake panel, showing stencil-applied solder paste, placement of 105 resistors, capacitors, headers and chips, and sped-up hot-air soldering. I test the LEDs at the end — please read/watch the full post if you'd like the complete build and tips.

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Soldering Boldport Club project "The Matrix"

Posted on 2017-03-18— Fun

I tried hot-air soldering on the Boldport Club project “The Matrix” and recorded the process. As a newcomer, I share what worked — I reflowed 120 LEDs in under 10 minutes, list the tools I used and link the video. Please read the full post and share any feedback or questions.

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Video: Soldering Boldport Project "Touchy"

Posted on 2016-10-02— Common

I made a short video showing how I soldered Boldport's Touchy, an SMD board with a tricky chip. I admit I had a loose soldering tip early on and share what I learned. If you're interested, please watch the full video and check the board photos in the post.

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Soldering for Show

Posted on 2016-09-24— Learn

I walk you through how I get camera-ready solder work: choosing the right iron and pliers, selecting solder and flux, careful prep, cutting and reheating for shiny domes, plus cleaning for macro photos. If you want neater prototypes or better product shots, read the full step-by-step guide.

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Boldport Tap — Second Try

Posted on 2016-09-21— Common

I tried soldering the Boldport Tap again, adapting Saar's Boldport technique to improve the finish. I carefully flush-cut wires, added solder until a small rounded dome formed, and filled component-side holes for a smooth transition. I used lead solder for shiny domes this time; read the full post for photos and details.

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Soldering Boldport Tap

Posted on 2016-09-20— Common

I made a short video soldering the Boldport Project "Tap" and testing the PCBite PCB holder. I walk through the key steps, tool setup, and positioning tips so you can see how the holder performs. If you're curious, watch the full clip and follow along with the post.

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Video: Assembling Final Outmoded Sequencer PCB

Posted on 2016-09-17— Projects

I recently assembled the final Outmoded Sequencer PCB and documented the soldering in a short video. I accidentally cut a bottom trace and repaired it with a jumper wire; the magnet matrix now secures the steel balls. I'll finish tone tuning and add four resistors — please watch the video and read on for details.

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Boldport "The Cuttle" Arrived

Posted on 2016-08-17— Fun

My new Boldport Club project, "The Cuttle," arrived today — a minimal ATMega328-PU board shaped like a cuttlefish. Soldering was straightforward; I photographed each stage and made a short video of a simple LED effect. Read on if you'd like photos, the code, and a closer look.

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SMD Soldering

Posted on 2016-08-11— Fun

I demonstrate SMD soldering in a short practice video, working through 1206 and 0805 packages and wrestling with tiny 0603 parts. If you’re curious about surface-mount techniques or improving your hand-soldering, watch the full video — I share what I learned and a few practical tips.

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Projects from Boldport Club Arrived

Posted on 2016-07-21— Recommendations

I received my Boldport Club projects this week and enjoyed assembling Tap, The Lady, and the Cordwood Puzzle. I share photos, a short video, and honest notes about soldering, power needs, and assembly quirks. If you'd like a closer look, read the full post for details and tips.

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