What Are Wooden Keycaps And Where To Get Them?
What are wooden keycaps and do they good for my keyboard? How much do they cost and how can I get them? In this article we will tell you everything about wooden keycaps.
What Are Wooden Keycaps?
Wooden keycaps are keyboard keycaps made out of wood instead of traditional plastic. These keycaps are becoming increasingly popular among keyboard enthusiasts because of their unique look and feel. Wooden keycaps can be made from a variety of different woods, each with their own distinct grain patterns and colors, and can be customized with various engravings or designs.
Wooden keycaps are often seen as a way to add a touch of natural beauty and warmth to an otherwise utilitarian object, and can be a great way to personalize your keyboard. They also tend to have a different texture and sound when typing, which some people find more satisfying than plastic keycaps. However, wooden keycaps may require more maintenance than traditional plastic keycaps to keep them in good condition over time.
How Do You Make Wooden Keycaps?
Making wooden keycaps can be a fairly involved process, but the basic steps involved are as follows:
- Choose your wood: Start by selecting the type of wood you want to use for your keycaps. Common choices include maple, walnut, cherry, and rosewood, but any type of dense, stable wood can work.
- Cut your wood: Use a saw to cut your wood into small blocks that are slightly larger than the size of a keycap. You can use a template to mark the shape of the keycap on the block of wood.
- Shape your keycaps: Use a lathe or CNC machine to shape the keycaps into their final form. This involves removing material from the block of wood to create the concave shape of the keycap, and drilling a hole for the key stem to attach to.
- Sand your keycaps: Once your keycaps have been shaped, sand them down to remove any rough edges or uneven surfaces. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and work your way up to a fine grit to achieve a smooth finish.
- Apply finish: Apply a finish to your keycaps to protect them and bring out the natural beauty of the wood. This can include oils, waxes, or other coatings.
- Customize: If desired, you can customize your keycaps by adding engravings or other designs using a laser cutter or CNC machine.
Overall, making wooden keycaps can be a rewarding project for those with woodworking or crafting experience, and can result in a unique and personalized addition to your keyboard setup.
Are Wooden Keycaps Durable?
Wooden keycaps can be durable, but their durability will depend on a few factors such as the type of wood used, the finish applied, and how they are cared for.
Some types of wood are harder and more durable than others, so choosing a dense, stable wood can help to ensure that your keycaps will last. The finish applied to the keycaps can also affect their durability – a protective finish such as polyurethane can help to prevent scratches and other damage.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that wooden keycaps are more prone to wear and tear than plastic keycaps. They can be susceptible to cracking or splitting if exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, and may require periodic maintenance such as reapplying finish or sanding out scratches.
Overall, if cared for properly, wooden keycaps can be a durable and long-lasting addition to your keyboard setup. However, they may require more attention and maintenance than plastic keycaps to keep them looking and functioning their best over time.
How Do Wooden Keycaps Cost?
The cost of wooden keycaps can vary widely depending on a few factors such as the type of wood used, the size and complexity of the keycaps, and the customization options.
Basic wooden keycaps without any customization can start at around $20-$30 USD per keycap, while more intricate designs or custom engravings can cost upwards of $50-$60 USD per keycap or more. Some artisanal wooden keycaps made from rare or exotic woods can cost even more.
It’s worth noting that wooden keycaps tend to be more expensive than plastic keycaps due to the additional time and skill required to craft them, as well as the higher cost of materials. Additionally, wooden keycaps are often produced in small batches by independent artisans, which can also contribute to their higher cost.
Overall, if you’re interested in purchasing wooden keycaps, it’s a good idea to do some research and compare prices from different makers to find a set that fits your budget and preferences.
Where Can I Get Wooden Keycaps?
You can find wooden keycaps from a variety of sources, including online marketplaces, specialty keyboard shops, and independent artisan makers. Here are a few places to start your search:
- Online marketplaces: Websites such as Etsy, Amazon, and AliExpress often have a wide selection of wooden keycaps available from various sellers. Be sure to read reviews and check the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.
- Specialty keyboard shops: Many keyboard-focused online retailers, such as Keycapscustom.com and KBDfans, offer a selection of wooden keycaps in addition to other keyboard components and accessories.
- Artisan makers: There are a number of independent makers who produce custom or limited-run wooden keycaps in small batches. Some examples include Jelly Key, Keyreative, and Varmilo.
- DIY: If you have woodworking skills and equipment, you can also consider making your own wooden keycaps. There are a variety of tutorials and resources available online to guide you through the process.
Overall, the best place to get wooden keycaps will depend on your budget, preferences, and the specific keycaps you’re looking for. It’s a good idea to do some research and shop around to find the best options for your needs.
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