The Open Heart is an LED matrix of individually addressable LEDs. It can be used to create a broach or bag light with highly customizable animations. It can be configured so that you can temporarily attach it to fabrics with headers that you simply push through, or you can configure it to be sewn into a project using conductive fabric for a more permanent setup. I have also created a simple flash programmer that you can design animations with, and it will generate the Arduino code for you. That way you just copy, paste, upload, and enjoy.
I am using a Charliplexing technique for addressing the LEDs. What this means is that you only need 6 wires from a micro controller to light things up. I've chosen to support the Arduino micro controller, because it has a low cost of entry, it is easy to program for, and it is easy to find information on. An Arduino can run two of these at once, as well as take input. You can also store up to 500 frames of animation or so, which could lead to some very complex animations. There are many versions of the Arduino out there, including the Lilly pad, which can be used for sew-able projects.
There are three flavors to the kits, depending on what you want to do with it. You may also just order the PCBs, or add assembly as an option. Simply add that to the cart before checkout, and I will put it together for you. If you do not want to buy anything from me, you can check out the instructable to built it yourself.
The Kits for sale
Buy at the Make Store.
I have few of the kits left, all of which are reserved for workshops.