Using TinkerCAD and KiCad

Step 1: Set Up TinkerCAD

  • Visit TinkerCAD.com
  • Log in or create an account
  • Navigate to “Circuits”
  • Click “Create New Circuit”
Creating a new account and circuit project
Figure 1: Creating a new account and circuit project in TinkerCAD.

Step 2: Create Your Circuit

  • Use the component menu to add:
    • LEDs
    • Resistors
    • Power source (e.g., battery)
  • Connect them using wires
  • Click “Start Simulation” to test
Creating a new LED circuit
Figure 2: Creating a new LED circuit in TinkerCAD.

Step 3: Export Your Design

  • Click “Export”
  • Select .BRD (Eagle Board File)
  • Save it to your device
Exporting .BRD for KiCAD
Figure 3: Exporting your circuit as a .BRD file for KiCAD.

Step 4: Import into KiCad

  • Open KiCad (ask for help if not installed)
  • Go to File > Import Non-KiCad Project
  • Select your .BRD file
  • Choose Auto-Match Layers
KiCAD setup
Figure 4: Setting up your project in KiCAD.

Step 5: Clean and Arrange

  • Use the PCB editor to:
    • Reposition components
    • Start routing tracks
Optimising the circuit layout
Figure 5: Optimising the circuit layout in KiCAD.

Step 6: Route Your PCB

  • Use routing tools (right panel)
  • Press:
    • V to invert track layer
    • F to flip components
  • Ensure tracks don’t overlap
Routing trace lines for the circuit
Figure 6: Routing trace lines for the circuit.

Step 6.1: Preview in 3D

  • Use KiCad’s 3D viewer to inspect your board
  • Look for spacing and design issues
A 3D view of the circuit for final checks
Figure 7: A 3D view of the circuit for final checks.

Step 7: Prepare for Printing

  • Go to File > Plot > Generate Drill Files
  • Save all output files
  • Check for .gbrjob file
  • Zip the folder
  • Email the zipped files to us
Saving drill files for final submission
Figure 8: Saving drill files for final submission.

Bonus: Make it Yours!

  • Add:
    • Custom shapes
    • Initials
    • Fun artwork or labels

🎉 Congrats!

You’ve created your own LED keychain PCB from scratch!
Keep experimenting and making cool electronics!