Getting into the world of designing your own keycaps for mechanical keyboards is both interesting and demanding. This tutorial will guide you through the process of designing custom keycaps, including understanding keycap profiles, creating a 3D model, mould creation, casting, and final touches.
# Understanding Keycap Profiles
The first step in designing custom keycaps is understanding the concept of keycap profiles. The keycap profile refers to the overall shape of the keycap, informing its look, feel, and comfort level. Keycap profiles are designed to optimize typing experience as well as aesthetics. Among the commonly used profiles are DSA, SA, Cherry, and OEM, each offering a different typing experience.
When designing your keycaps, it’s crucial to understand the ergonomics of keycap profiles. Choose a profile that comfortably fits your hand, suits your keyboard layout, and matches your aesthetic preference.
# Designing a 3D Model
Once you’ve chosen your desired keycap profile, the next step is creating a 3D model of your keycap. Software such as Fusion 360, Tinkercad, or Blender can be used for this purpose. For your first keycap, you might want to start with a simple, cylindrical design that matches your keycap profile.
Start by making a 1.25u keycap base, a common size used in spacebars and modifier keys. The u or “unit” is the standard measure for key width. Once you have designed the base, create the stem that connects the keycap to the keyboard’s switch. The stem should be compatible with the type of switch you are using on your keyboard – Cherry MX-style stems being the most common.
Remember to ensure the design’s symmetry for the best results. The top of your keycap should also be flat or slightly concave to match the shape of fingers.
## 3D Printing the Model
After completing the 3D design, the next step is to print your prototype. 3D printing is an effective way to test your design before moving to more permanent materials. You will want to use a high-resolution 3D printer to ensure precision and fine detail in your prints.
# Making the Silicone Mould
Once you are satisfied with your 3D printed keycap model, you can now create a silicone mould. The mould will be used to cast the final keycap. Silicone is a perfect material for moulding, as it replicates every fine detail of your model, and is easy to work with.
Start by placing your 3D printed keycap in a mould box, and then pour the silicone mixture over it. After curing the silicone, carefully remove the mould, preserving the original model’s intricate details.
# Casting the Keycaps
Casting is the next critical step in the process of creating custom keycaps. This step is where you’ll use resin to recreate your keycap design. You could opt for a clear resin if you want to preserve the translucent look or go for colored resins to create specific designs.
Start by pouring the resin into your silicone mould until it fully covers the interior. Allow the resin to cure fully as per the instructions provided with the resin.
After the resin has cured, you can extract the new keycap from the mould very carefully to prevent damaging the delicate stem.
# Final Touches
Finally, you need to add the finishing touches. This may include sanding, polishing and painting your keycap to create a flawless and aesthetically pleasing product. Sanding is especially important for ensuring that your keycaps fit smoothly on the keyboard’s switches.
For painting, you can use acrylic paints and a small, high-quality brush. You can also apply a clear coat as a final step to protect the paint job and give the keycap a professional, glossy look.
Creating custom keycaps is a time-consuming process that requires patience, precision, and creativity. However, with the skill of designing your own personalized keycaps, you can add a personal touch to your mechanical keyboard, reflecting your personality and style, while also improving your typing experience.
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