I'm not sure. You raise some pretty significant problems when you say 'toal newbie'...
Can you solder? If not, google soldering techniques or tutorials... soldering is the only reliable method for attaching electronic parts together.
How will you build your interface circuit? Breadboard, copper clad, etch pcb, solderless breadboard??? Do you know what each of these are?
You still haven't described your load or power source.
How familiar are you with electronic parts? If you tear the clapper apart, will you know what you are looking at, or do we need to guide you step by step? It's been 15 years since I tore one apart.