# Source: https://learn.adafruit.com/conductive-thread/preventing-short-circuits.md

# Conductive Thread

## Preventing short circuits

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/003/228/medium800/flora_DSC_0128.jpg?1396794214)

Keep your stitches small and snug throughout your circuit. An embroidery hoop comes in handy to keep the fabric flat.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/003/232/medium800/flora_DSC_0133.jpg?1396794325)

Keep power and ground lines far apart from each other. A short between power and ground will prevent your project from working and may even cause your battery to heat up.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/003/233/medium800/flora_DSC_0134.jpg?1396794346)

Use a multimeter's continuity tester to check your circuit for shorts. The meter will beep any time the two probes are electrically connected.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/003/234/medium800/flora_DSC_0136.jpg?1396794371)

Put one probe on power and one probe on ground. There should be no beep!

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/003/235/medium800/flora_DSC_0137.jpg?1396794394)

Check your circuit for shorts after finishing each path in your circuit. This way if you do discover a problem, you will know the likely location of the stray thread/short circuit.

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## Featured Products

### Stainless Medium Conductive Thread - 3 ply - 18 meter/60 ft

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Connect this to that without soldering using these handy mini alligator clip test leads. 15" cables with alligator clip on each end, color coded. You get 12 pieces in 6 colors. Strong and grippy, these always come in handy! We often use these in conjunction with a multimeter so we...

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