MakerThursday 0x10: Getting Started with WLED

Overview

This Maker Thursday we discussed WLED—an open-source, web-controlled firmware project that allows users to control WS2812B LED strips, matrices, and other addressable LEDs using microcontrollers like the ESP32.

We focused on how WLED is beginner-friendly, making it easy to build lighting projects without writing any code. For the hands-on session, participants flashed the WLED firmware onto an ESP32 and set up 8x8 LED matrices to see their custom lights in action.

Topics

Introduction to WLED and its initial setup.
The difference between normal LED strips and addressable WS2812B LED.
Controller requirements: Although WLED still supports the ESP8266, the ESP32 is recommended for new setups to support advanced features like audio reactivity, multiple LED output pins and higher LED counts.
Controlling WLED: web application dashboard, native Android & iOS mobile apps, and integration options (like Home Assistant).

Project Presentation

WLED ESP32 Controller Setup: Flashing WLED firmware and configuring 8x8 addressable LED matrices.

Photos

Activity photo

Highlights

Participants flashed WLED to an ESP32 and configured 8x8 LED matrices.
Explored built-in animations, color palettes, and segments.

Next Week

Topic: TBD
Host: TBD