# Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Overview Build your own interactive monsters, powered by Crickit!  It doesn't take exotic materials to build your own animatronic friend, just a few paper cups, craft supplies, a couple of servos, and a Circuit Playground Express with CRICKIT! This guide shows how program these crafty monsters with both Microsoft MakeCode - a block-based programming system that's easy for anyone to use, and CircuitPython, a Python-based language that is the perfect introduction to higher-level programming.   ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/066/medium800thumb/makecode_six_monster_mosaic.jpg?1540431275) ## Parts Used ### Part: Adafruit CRICKIT for Circuit Playground Express quantity: 1 Creative Robotics and Interactive Construction Kit is an add-on to our popular Circuit Playground Express that lets you #MakeRobotFriend using CircuitPython [Adafruit CRICKIT for Circuit Playground Express](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3093) ### Part: Circuit Playground Express quantity: 1 Circuit Playground Express is the perfect introduction to electronics and programming [Circuit Playground Express](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3333) ### Part: Micro Servo quantity: 3 This little servo can rotate approximately 180 degrees (90 in each direction). Works just like standard servos you're used to but smaller. [Micro Servo](https://www.adafruit.com/product/169) ### Part: Micro USB cable quantity: 1 Standard A to micro-B USB cable - 3ft [Micro USB cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/592) ### Part: Alkaline AA batteries - 3 pack quantity: 1 These batteries are good quality at a good price, and work fantastic with any of the kits or projects that use AAs. [Alkaline AA batteries - 3 pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3521) ### Part: 3xAA holder with DC jack quantity: 1 Battery holder 3xAA batteries with 2.1mm DC jack [3xAA holder with DC jack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3842) ### Part: 5V 2A (2000mA) switching power supply quantity: 1 Power supply that gives a clean regulated 5V output at up to 2000mA, 110 or 240 volt AC input [5V 2A (2000mA) switching power supply](https://www.adafruit.com/product/276) ## Materials & Tools To build this project you'll need: - [Paper cups](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073P1NQTM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1) (this set is a good size and includes many colors) - Hot glue and glue gun - Pipe cleaners for decoration - Scissors - Scrap cardboard - Optional: googly eyes for facial features, yarn for hair/fur # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Werewolf Here, we will use pipe cleaners to build a furry werewolf.  This werewolf is constructed out of three paper drinking cups with a servo motor controlling the movement. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/318/medium800thumb/circuit_playground_projects_werewolf.jpg?1539126354) ## Create Pivot   Mark an outline of the servo on the bottom of a cup.   Cut a hole in the bottom of the cup.   Insert the servo through the hole.   Use hot glue to glue servo in place.   Attach the servo arm. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7764.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/231/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7764.jpg?1539024143) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7765.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/232/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7765.jpg?1539024152) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7768.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/233/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7768.jpg?1539024548) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7779.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/234/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7779.jpg?1539024293) Use hot glue to stick short sections of pipe cleaner on the cup.   Add arms.   Cut a hole for the face. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7778.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/789/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7778.jpg?1538413935) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7802.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/803/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7802.jpg?1538415134) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7803.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/802/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7803.jpg?1538415119) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7805.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/804/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7805.jpg?1538415191) Warning: ## Create a Face   Use a hobby knife to cut out a mouth.   Affix googly eyes with hot glue or glue stick.   Add a nose.   Place colored paper behind the mouth. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7790.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/793/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7790.jpg?1538414406) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7794.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/794/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7794.jpg?1538414470) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7795.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/795/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7795.jpg?1538414512) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7796.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/796/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7796.jpg?1538414569) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7818.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/797/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7818.jpg?1538414644) ## Join the Cups   Remove the bottom of a cup.   Fit the top cup over the bottom cup. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7807.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/798/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7807.jpg?1538414936) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7808.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/799/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7808.jpg?1538414947) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7848.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/800/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7848.jpg?1538414970) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7797.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/801/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7797.jpg?1538415046) ## Attach Face   Place the trimmed inner cup inside top cup.   Glue a folded riser to the inner cup.   Glue a werewolf face to riser. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7814.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/805/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7814.jpg?1538415267) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7817.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/806/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7817.jpg?1538415296) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7816.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/807/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7816.jpg?1538415312) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7821.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/808/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7821.jpg?1538415360) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/401/medium800/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_7853.jpg?1539208723) # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Vampire This vampire uses two gray paper cups to create the head and cape, and one red cup for the body.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/319/medium800thumb/circuit_playground_projects_vampire.jpg?1539126385) ## Mount the Servo Motor   Cut a hole for a servo motor in the bottom of a cup.   Glue the servo motor in place with hot glue. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8050.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/002/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8050.jpg?1538675849) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8051.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/003/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8051.jpg?1538675850) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8054.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/004/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8054.jpg?1538675878) ## Make the Cape   Cut a curved section out of one cup.   This will become the vampire's cape.   You can bend the edges outward to give the cape some more shape and texture. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8042.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/925/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8042.jpg?1538506208) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8038.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/942/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8038.jpg?1538582647) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8052.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/945/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8052.jpg?1538588218) ## Make the Vampire Head   Cut out another cup, trimming top and bottom.   This piece will become the vampire's head.    At this stage, you can add some shape to the top edge of the head. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8043.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/949/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8043.jpg?1538592540) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8044.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/948/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8044.jpg?1538592454) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8045.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/950/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8045.jpg?1538592572) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8047.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/951/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8047.jpg?1538592682) ## Test Fit These three pieces will fit together as pictured. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/952/medium800/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8046.jpg?1538592740) ## Vampire Face   Cut out two eyes and some fangs out of black cardboard or cardstock.   A thin black collar is a nice addition, and will help hold the two cups together.    Glue these vampire features onto the head and attach the cape. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8048.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/953/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8048.jpg?1538592822) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8055.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/954/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8055.jpg?1538592885) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8056.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/960/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8056.jpg?1538598122) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8059.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/961/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8059.jpg?1538598329) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8060.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/962/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8060.jpg?1538598373) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8062.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/963/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8062.jpg?1538598396) ## Attach the Arms   Bend two arms out of pipe cleaners.   Use a thin line of hot glue to stick the arms to the edge of the cape. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8066.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/964/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8066.jpg?1538598589) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8067.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/965/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8067.jpg?1538598656) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8068.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/966/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8068.jpg?1538598700) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8069.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/967/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8069.jpg?1538598741) Put the head and cape on the body.   Use a square of double sided foam tape to stick the head & cape to the servo arm. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8065.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/968/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8065.jpg?1538598789) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8070.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/969/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8070.jpg?1538598981) Your vampire is ready! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/062/918/medium800/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8070.jpg?1538505829) # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Ghost This spooky ghost pairs two stacked paper cups with a piece of cloth formed around a pipe cleaner to create a ghostly hollow face. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/320/medium800thumb/circuit_playground_projects_ghost.jpg?1539126411) ## Mount the Servo   Cut a hole for a servo motor in the bottom of one cup.   Glue the servo motor in place.   Attach the servo arm. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8203.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/210/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8203.jpg?1539019649) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8204.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/211/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8204.jpg?1539019817) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8205.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/212/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8205.jpg?1539020992) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8206.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/213/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8206.jpg?1539021008) ## Create the Ghost   Find a piece of tissue paper or cloth about 12" x 12". This will become our ghost's head.   Glue a pipe cleaner diagonally down the middle.   Fold the cloth over the pipe cleaner.   Bend into a U shape. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8176.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/214/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8176.jpg?1539021042) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8183.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/215/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8183.jpg?1539021053) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8184.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/216/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8184.jpg?1539021066) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8185.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/217/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8185.jpg?1539021078) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8186.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/218/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8186.jpg?1539021091) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8187.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/219/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8187.jpg?1539021177) Now take the ghostly head and fold it over the paper cup.   Use a line a hot glue on either side of the cup to hold the ends of the pipe cleaner to the cup.   Trim the ends off, if necessary. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8188.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/224/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8188.jpg?1539021493) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8190.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/221/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8190.jpg?1539021350) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8192.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/222/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8192.jpg?1539021397) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8189.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/223/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8189.jpg?1539021468) ## Add Arms   Fashion two arms out of sections of a pipe cleaner.   Hot glue these to the sides of the ghost. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8193.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/225/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8193.jpg?1539021599) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8195.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/226/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8195.jpg?1539021861) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8197.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/227/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8197.jpg?1539023907) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8198.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/228/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8198.jpg?1539023952) Use a square of double sided tape to connect the ghost body to the ghost head. ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8208.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/229/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8208.jpg?1539024031) ![circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8210.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/230/medium640/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8210.jpg?1539024066) Your ghost is now ready to dance! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/235/medium800/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8198.jpg?1539024373) # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Spider For this monster, we will use two paper cups and some pipe cleaners to create a long-legged spider.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/064/medium800thumb/makecode_spider_wiggle.jpg?1540430221) ## Face   Cut 8 small holes in a black cup   As with previous monsters, cut a rectangular hole in the bottom of the cup and mount the servo through it. ![makecode_IMG_8610.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/025/medium640/makecode_IMG_8610.jpg?1540240296) ![makecode_IMG_8614.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/027/medium640/makecode_IMG_8614.jpg?1540240526) ## Eyes   Place eyes on inner cup.   Be careful to place them so they line up with the holes you cut! ![makecode_IMG_8611_copy.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/028/medium640/makecode_IMG_8611_copy.jpg?1540240713) ![makecode_IMG_8616.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/029/medium640/makecode_IMG_8616.jpg?1540240751) ## Legs   Glue eight spidery legs onto outer cup.   Pipe cleaners work best for this, as they can be bent and trimmed to create the effect you want.   Assemble the two cups together, using a piece of double sided foam tape to secure the inner cup to the servo motor arm. ![makecode_IMG_8613.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/030/medium640/makecode_IMG_8613.jpg?1540240901) ![makecode_IMG_8617.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/031/medium640/makecode_IMG_8617.jpg?1540240947) ![makecode_IMG_8618.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/032/medium640/makecode_IMG_8618.jpg?1540240990) Your spider is now ready to dance! Spoooooooky! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/820/medium800/makecode_IMG_8619.jpg?1539967867) # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Cat In this example, three paper cups, a few pipe cleaners and some markers create a cat with shifty eyes. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/065/medium800thumb/makecode_cat_test.jpg?1540429873) ## Eyes   Draw two cat eyes on a brightly colored cup, positioning the eyes around the middle of the cup.   Cut off the top of the cup. This will sit inside the outer cup, allowing the eyes to move independently.   Cut out two eye holes in the outer cup, aligning them with the cat eyes on the inner cup. ![makecode_IMG_8552.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/033/medium640/makecode_IMG_8552.jpg?1540241075) ![makecode_IMG_8553.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/034/medium640/makecode_IMG_8553.jpg?1540241431) ![makecode_IMG_8554.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/037/medium640/makecode_IMG_8554.jpg?1540241618) ## Ears   Add two ears to the top edge of the outer cup.   Use a small line of hot glue to hold them in place. ![makecode_IMG_8555.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/038/medium640/makecode_IMG_8555.jpg?1540241667) ![makecode_IMG_8556.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/039/medium640/makecode_IMG_8556.jpg?1540241690) ## Whiskers and Nose   Cut some whiskers out of pipe cleaners or yarn. Glue these in place below the eyes with dabs of hot glue.   Add a round pink nose, using rubber, pink craft paper, or a marker. ![makecode_IMG_8557.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/040/medium640/makecode_IMG_8557.jpg?1540241766) ![makecode_IMG_8558.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/041/medium640/makecode_IMG_8558.jpg?1540241816) ![makecode_IMG_8559.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/044/medium640/makecode_IMG_8559.jpg?1540242961) ## Paws    Cut the top off another cup to create a base that the head will sit in.   Draw paws on the bottom of the cup, include as much detail on the legs and body of the cat as you like. ![makecode_IMG_8560.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/042/medium640/makecode_IMG_8560.jpg?1540242035) ![makecode_IMG_8563.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/043/medium640/makecode_IMG_8563.jpg?1540242907) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/822/medium800/makecode_IMG_8564.jpg?1539967890) # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Owl In this example, some cardboard is attached to a paper cup to create the face of an owl, while two more cups make the moving eyes and winged body.  ## Face   Cut out a faceplate in the shape of an owl's head   Cut out two matching holes in a cup ![makecode_IMG_8539.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/045/medium640/makecode_IMG_8539.jpg?1540243259) ![makecode_IMG_8542.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/046/medium640/makecode_IMG_8542.jpg?1540243311) ## Servo Motor   Add a servo motor to the base of the cup.   Place the trimmed inner cup inside.   Add googly eyes. ![makecode_IMG_8544.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/047/medium640/makecode_IMG_8544.jpg?1540243343) ![makecode_IMG_8545.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/048/medium640/makecode_IMG_8545.jpg?1540242825) Googly eyes work well for this owl, creating a perpetually surprised look. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/049/medium800thumb/makecode_IMG_8548.2018-10-19_12_49_07.jpg?1540424210) ## Body   Cut a base out of another paper cup.   After the bottom has been removed, cutting a zig-zag pattern along the edge of the cup lends a feathery pattern to the animal.     ![makecode_IMG_8550.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/050/medium640/makecode_IMG_8550.jpg?1540242888) ![makecode_IMG_8549.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/051/medium640/makecode_IMG_8549.jpg?1540242897) ## Wings   Create two wings from scrap cardboard. Add feathery details with a silver sharpie.   Glue the wings to the sides of the cup. ![makecode_IMG_8551.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/052/medium640/makecode_IMG_8551.jpg?1540242901) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/823/medium800/makecode_IMG_8565.jpg?1539967908) # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Monstrous MakeCode ## Wiring Diagram ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/413/medium800/circuit_playground_projects_3_servos_bb.png?1539295901) Each of the monster servos plug into the Crickit in the **Servo** block. Start with 1, then 2, then 3.The lightest color (white or yellow) wire faces outward, the darkest (black or brown) inward. The Circuit Playground Express is attached to the Crickit per [these instructions](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-crickit-creative-robotic-interactive-construction-kit/assembly). ## Code Now it's time to upload some code! For this we will be using  **Microsoft MakeCode for Adafruit** , a web-based code editor. It provides a block editor, similar to Scratch or Code.org, and also a JavaScript editor for more advanced users. If you haven't used MakeCode before, [this guide is a good place to start](https://learn.adafruit.com/makecode/downloading-and-flashing?embeds=allow). ## Getting into Bootloader Mode To make your board work with MakeCode, we need to put the Circuit Playground Express into "bootloader mode". All that's required to do this is to  **connect the board to your computer**  with a micro USB cable and  **click the small reset button**  in the center of the board.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/061/864/medium800thumb/circuit_playground_projects_CPX_bootloader_mode.jpg?1536953034) Click [this link](https://makecode.adafruit.com/40308-00109-73933-55535) or the button below to enter the portal to interact with the code for this project. [Open the code in MakeCode](https://makecode.adafruit.com/40308-00109-73933-55535) ## How to Upload Code To upload code, connect you Circuit Playground Express to your computer using the micro USB cable, click the  **Download**  button to download the ** .uf2 file**  to your computer, and  **drag 'n drop it onto the CPLAYBOOT**  drive using your computer's file explorer program or finder. The drive will automatically eject itself. (Your computer may give you a "failed to eject drive correctly" error, you can ignore this.) The code is now on your Circuit Playground Express and ready to run! ## Making Changes If you'd like to play with this code, click **Edit**  and a new window will open in which you can create your own version. You can easily click and drag the block of functions around, making it simple to change what will trigger the monsters to start dancing. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/408/medium800thumb/circuit_playground_projects_change_input_trigger.jpg?1539279724) You can change the sensitivity of certain triggers in the `on start` block.  Settings for both the `light threshold` and `sound threshold` can be altered to make your monsters appropriately sensitive to the conditions in which you place them. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/405/medium800/circuit_playground_projects_Screen_Shot_2018-10-11_at_1.12.54_PM.png?1539278797) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/407/medium800thumb/circuit_playground_projects_sensitivity_setting.jpg?1539279716) ## Troubleshooting **Problem** : My motors aren't responding! **Solution** : Make sure that the small slide switch on the ** ** CRICKIT near the DC power connector is set to "ON".   **Problem: ** My Circuit Playground Express doesn't show up as  **CPLAYBOOT**! **Solution: ** Your Circuit Playground Express board comes ready to work with CircuitPython, and will show up as a flash drive named  **CIRCUITPY**  the first time it's connected to your computer. To switch over to work with MakeCode,  **connect the board to your computer**  with a micro USB cable and  **click the small reset button**  in the center of the board.   When Circuit Playground Express is in Bootloader mode, all the LEDs will flash  **red briefly, then turn green. ** Your computer should now show removable drive called  **CPLAYBOOT. ** Now you can copy the MakeCode file to the  **CPLAYBOOT**  flash drive. # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Spooky CircuitPython Rather than using MakeCode, it is also possible to switch your Circuit Playground Express into CircuitPython mode with **one single press of the reset button** in the middle of the board. In this example, we'll learn how to use CircuitPython to control each monster. # Getting Familiar CircuitPython is a programming language based on Python, one of the fastest growing programming languages in the world. It is specifically designed to simplify experimenting and learning to code on low-cost microcontroller boards. CircuitPython is easiest to use within the Mu Editor. If you haven't previously used Mu, [this guide will get you started](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-circuitpython/installing-mu-editor). If you haven't used Circuit Playground Express with CRICKIT before, make sure you've updated it with the latest special 'seesaw' version of the CPX firmware. [This guide will show you how](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-crickit-creative-robotic-interactive-construction-kit/circuitpython-code). # Sample code To start, copy and paste the code below into your Mu editor. ```auto import time from adafruit_crickit import crickit from adafruit_circuitplayground.express import cpx # Create three servos on Crickit def dance_monster1(): crickit.servo_1.angle = 80 time.sleep(0.100) crickit.servo_1.angle = 100 def dance_monster2(): crickit.servo_2.angle = 80 time.sleep(0.100) crickit.servo_2.angle = 100 def dance_monster3(): crickit.servo_3.angle = 80 time.sleep(0.100) crickit.servo_3.angle = 100 def dance_monster4(): crickit.servo_4.angle = 80 time.sleep(0.100) crickit.servo_4.angle = 100 while True: if cpx.light < 1000: dance_monster1() if cpx.light < 1000: dance_monster2() if cpx.shake: dance_monster3() time.sleep(1.5) ``` ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/062/medium800/makecode_Screen_Shot_2018-10-22_at_6.02.02_PM.png?1540245789) # Uploading Make sure you've connected the Circuit Playground Express to your computer and have Mu open and connected to your board. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/053/medium800/makecode_Screen_Shot_2018-09-06_at_9.47.58_AM_copy.png?1540242976) Once the code is copied into Mu, press the  **Save**  button - your code should be saved to the  **CIRCUITPY**  disk drive (which appears when the Circuit Playground Express is plugged into your computer) as `code.py`. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/064/055/medium800/makecode_Screen_Shot_2018-07-10_at_5.58.42_PM.png?1540242986) # Troubleshooting **Problem** : My Circuit Playground Express isn't recognized by Mu! **Solution** : Make sure your board is set up with CircuitPython, which has the Circuit Playground Express show up as a flash drive named  **CIRCUITPY**  when you connect the CPX to your computer. If it is showing up as  **CPLAYBOOT**  on your computer, you can [follow the steps in this guide](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-circuit-playground-express/circuitpython-quickstart) to ensure CircuitPython is loaded and you see the  **CIRCUITPY**  drive.   **Problem** : My servo isn't moving! **Solution** : Check that the switch on ** ** CRICKIT is set to "ON".   **Problem** : My servo still isn't moving!  **Solution** : Make sure you've updated your Circuit Playground Express with the latest special 'seesaw' version of the CPX firmware. [This guide will show you how](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-crickit-creative-robotic-interactive-construction-kit/circuitpython-code). # Halloween Monsters with CRICKIT and Circuit Playground Express ## Trick or Treat! Set this trio of monsters in a darkened room and wait for someone to enter and turn on the lights. Suddenly they all spring to life! These monsters are fun to leave somewhere like on a porch with an automatic light, so they'll start dancing whenever a guest approaches in response to the change in brightness or the sound of their approaching footsteps, depending on which trigger mechanism you prefer. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/385/medium800thumb/circuit_playground_projects_IMG_8393.2018-10-10_16_25_32.jpg?1539205829) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/063/834/medium800thumb/makecode_cat_spider_owl.2018-10-19_12_53_55.jpg?1539968066) ## Featured Products ### Circuit Playground Express [Circuit Playground Express](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3333) **Circuit Playground Express** is the next step towards a perfect introduction to electronics and programming. We've taken the original Circuit Playground Classic and made it even better! Not only did we pack even more sensors in, we also made it even easier to... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3333) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3333/guides) ### Adafruit CRICKIT for Circuit Playground Express [Adafruit CRICKIT for Circuit Playground Express](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3093) Sometimes we wonder if robotics engineers ever watch movies. If they did, they'd know that making robots into servants always ends up in a robot rebellion. Why even go down that path? Here at Adafruit, we believe in making robots our  **friends!** So if you find... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3093) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3093/guides) ### Micro servo [Micro servo](https://www.adafruit.com/product/169) Tiny little servo can rotate approximately 180 degrees (90 in each direction) and works just like the standard kinds you're used to but _smaller_. You can use any servo code, hardware, or library to control these servos. Good for beginners who want to make stuff move without... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/169) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/169/guides) ### USB cable - USB A to Micro-B [USB cable - USB A to Micro-B](https://www.adafruit.com/product/592) This here is your standard A to micro-B USB cable, for USB 1.1 or 2.0. Perfect for connecting a PC to your Metro, Feather, Raspberry Pi or other dev-board or microcontroller Approximately 3 feet / 1 meter long Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/592) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/592/guides) ### Alkaline AA batteries (LR6) - 3 pack [Alkaline AA batteries (LR6) - 3 pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3521) Battery power for your portable project! These batteries are good quality at a good price, and work fantastic with any of the kits or projects in the shop that use AAs. This is a pack of **3 AA batteries**. These batteries are Alkaline (MnO2) chemistry, with a voltage... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3521) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3521/guides) ### 3 x AA Battery Holder with 2.1mm Plug [3 x AA Battery Holder with 2.1mm Plug](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3842) Here's another addition to our growing family of [AA battery holders](https://www.adafruit.com/category/563). A holder for three (3) AA batteries! It's got an 8" long power cable with a 2.1mm DC jack at the end, and, oh yes, it's in classy... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3842) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3842/guides) ### 5V 2A (2000mA) switching power supply - UL Listed [5V 2A (2000mA) switching power supply - UL Listed](https://www.adafruit.com/product/276) This is an FCC/CE certified and UL listed power supply. Need a lot of 5V power? This switching supply gives a clean regulated 5V output at up to 2000mA. 110 or 240 input, so it works in any country. The plugs are "US 2-prong" style so you may need a plug adapter, but you can pick one... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/276) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/276/guides) ### STEMMA JST PH 2mm 3-Pin to Male Header Cable - 200mm [STEMMA JST PH 2mm 3-Pin to Male Header Cable - 200mm](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3893) This cable will let you turn a JST PH 3-pin cable port into 3 individual wires with high-quality 0.1" male header plugs on the end. We're carrying these to match up with our Hallowing, for extending and connecting sensors or LEDs - and the wires are even color coded! In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3893) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3893/guides) ## Related Guides - [Adafruit Circuit Playground Express](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-circuit-playground-express.md) - [CPX Glowing Disembodied Hand](https://learn.adafruit.com/cpx-glowing-disembodied-hand.md) - [Cardboard Circuit Playground Express Inchworm Robot](https://learn.adafruit.com/cardboard-robot-inchworm.md) - [Glowing Bottle Castle and Capacitive Touch Piano](https://learn.adafruit.com/glowing-bottle-castle-and-capacitive-touch-piano.md) - [Sipping Power With NeoPixels](https://learn.adafruit.com/sipping-power-with-neopixels.md) - [Circuit Playground Express TV Zapper](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuitpython-tv-zapper-with-circuit-playground-express.md) - [Make It Sense](https://learn.adafruit.com/make-it-sense.md) - [Which CircuitPython Board is Right for You?](https://learn.adafruit.com/choose-your-circuitpython-board.md) - [Mount for CRICKIT](https://learn.adafruit.com/mount-for-crickit.md) - [LEGO Compatible Crickit Rover](https://learn.adafruit.com/lego-compatible-crickit-rover.md) - [Pearl's Gem Weapon – Steven Universe](https://learn.adafruit.com/pearl-s-spear-steven-universe.md) - [Mason Jar Snow Globe](https://learn.adafruit.com/snow-globe-makecode.md) - [Datalogging and File Storage in MakeCode](https://learn.adafruit.com/data-logging-and-file-storage-in-makecode.md) - [Circuit Playground Express USB MIDI Controller and Synthesizer](https://learn.adafruit.com/cpx-midi-controller.md) - [Living Starry Night Painting](https://learn.adafruit.com/animated-starry-night-circuit-playground-express.md) - [Drama Piñata](https://learn.adafruit.com/customizable-reusable-pinata.md)