Some of the first steps toward working with Arduino is understanding how to write code for it. The good news is that it's made with beginners in mind.

YouTube channel How To Mechatronics has created a great tutorial with full instructions on how to create your very own Arduino powered 3D wire bending machine.

To solve the problem without sourcing a new switch, [Jean-Noel] built his own Arduino based Dahlander switch. This consists of three relays that select the wiring configuration for each speed mode.

If you want to attach a light, motor or sensor to the Arduino board, you just snap it on -- you can spend more of your time coding rather than dealing with wiring and other hardware hassles.