You may have had the LED wired backwards - it only works one way. 20 gauge solid copper wire works well for the pins, available unsheathed at hardware stores (picture hanging wire), then need to cover it up with electricians tape or heat shrink tubing, so the wires don't cross, about 1/2 inch bare. It should work if you do it right. I too had it not work the first time because I had the LED wired backwards.