I still prefer my first idea — cosplaying as Plankton’s electronic wife, Karen, from SpongeBob SquarePants.
Although my second idea, the angel wings, is visually beautiful, it doesn’t feel as conceptually interesting.
However, wearing a large “computer” on my head during the Halloween parade would not be safe.
So I’m thinking about transforming the computer into a handheld screen or a portable box, while dressing myself in a mechanical or cyber-inspired outfit.
This way, I can ensure safety during the parade, and when taking photos, I can lift the screen up to my face to recreate Karen’s look —
it would still be visually striking and conceptually playful.
1.Structure & Function
The device functions as a portable electronic screen that displays animated graphics and patterns.
A button allows the user to switch between multiple display modes (heartbeat line, smile, or flat signal),
recreating the reactive visual behavior of Karen from SpongeBob SquarePants.
2.Materials
Main Board：Use an Arduino UNO as the main control board to manage lighting and button interactions.
Display Module：BTF-LIGHTING WS2812B IC RGB 5050SMD Pure Gold Individual Addressable LED Strip 16.4FT 300LED 60Pixel/m Flexible Full Color IP30 DC5V for DIY Chasing Color Project
Light Source：Apply green LEDs or RGB lights (green channel only) to recreate Karen’s iconic electronic green glow.
Button：Add a small push button to switch between different facial expressions or animation modes.
Outer Shell：Construct the outer shell with foam board, PVC sheet, or acrylic sheet — lightweight, durable, and easy to shape.https://www.amazon.com/UU-FIL-Semi-Frosted-Gray-Black-Plexiglass/dp/B0DD1H9Q3F/ref=sr_1_3?crid=A07WVMWO7HBB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.63A-wNk2kFjmm803p6lOB0KM12WCM0PAyZl8GzxAGGQK9Qazrv76rlv6oPYp_eUCjh7_F5N1HmbrJGXbbOFRk0Bk88C2L0fAkweXScC2v3BdRHm0hvHOZW5zvypu03I0y9U3YQzM4r_Fqv-2Gnez9DsCS_Jym7WVyhyhu8AEc8cCRj5keGIStKtv2I53fDPktljrN7cAcexaUQEmm19IPIiFrQUpZlwQnI-fUn8aEp0.h9WwCjcIGRwQdgJh8rLbhGkhdvLQZfamFDuTYU10ou0&dib_tag=se&keywords=frosted+acrylic+black&qid=1760538426&sprefix=frosted+acrylic+black%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-3
Diffusion Layer：Place a frosted acrylic or translucent plastic layer in front of the LEDs to create a soft, diffused glow.
Handle：Attach an acrylic or leather handle that can be held or worn on the hand for easy and safe interaction.
I’m so surprised you chose this character! I think you could add handles on both sides of the screen so it’s easier to lift it up to your face when taking photos—holding it with one hand would get really tiring. And I feel like the programming will be a big project, but the result is definitely going to be amazing.
I love this idea! It is smart and safe to make Karen a handheld screen/box. The concept is clear and funny. The mode button adds play and story. Green line graphics read well, and lifting the screen to your face for photos is a great touch.
Question that will the screen be bright enough outdoors during the parade?