A Living Canvas of Shifting Colors and Motion
Patternflow is an open source LED synthesizer that lets you create mesmerizing light shows by twisting a few dials.
Generating colorful, ever-changing patterns has fascinated electronics enthusiasts for decades. Whether driven by music, mathematics, or user interactions, these displays turn relatively simple algorithms into captivating visual art. While modern computers can produce these effects easily enough, there is still something satisfying about dedicated hardware built for the task.
A hardware hacker who goes by the handle engmung has built one such device called Patternflow. It is an open source LED synthesizer that lets anyone create mesmerizing light shows with the twist of a few dials.
Four rotary encoders allow users to manipulate mathematical patterns in real time, transforming a 128×64 RGB LED matrix into a living canvas of shifting colors and motion. Rather than requiring specialized software or programming knowledge to enjoy, the device is designed to make experimentation immediate and intuitive.
The project is built around an ESP32-S3 microcontroller paired with a custom PCB and a HUB75 LED matrix. It runs Arduino-compatible firmware with a modular pattern architecture that allows visual effects to be switched instantly without reflashing the device. Two built-in patterns are included out of the box, while a browser-based Live Editor lets users create entirely new effects. The workflow also supports AI-assisted pattern generation, producing JavaScript previews before exporting finished C++ code that can be loaded directly onto the hardware.
Users can test patterns on a virtual version of the synthesizer before ever building the hardware, then flash completed creations over USB without installing an IDE. The built-in Wi-Fi connection hosts a local control page, and optional audio-reactive features use WebSockets to synchronize visuals with music. Support for Open Sound Control (OSC) also makes Patternflow suitable for live performances and interactive art installations.
Every aspect of Patternflow is open source, including the firmware, electronics, mechanical designs, documentation, and build guides. Builders are encouraged to customize the enclosure using different materials, contribute new assembly guides, develop original visual patterns, and share their work with others.
Patternflow will be launching soon on Crowd Supply. You can sign up for notifications if you’d like to stay in the loop.