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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: Bobatype on Sun, 11 July 2021, 08:33:35

Title: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: Bobatype on Sun, 11 July 2021, 08:33:35
Groupbuy is now live!

Vendors

USA - Vala Supply (https://vala.supply/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
Canada - Mech.land (https://mech.land/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
Europe - My Keyboard EU (https://mykeyboard.eu/catalogue/category/group-buys/deskmats/cherry-blossomx-deskmat_640/)
UK - Proto[Typist] (https://prototypist.net/products/group-buy-cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
OCE - Daily Clack (https://dailyclack.com/collections/group-buys/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
Singapore/Malaysia - iLumkb (https://ilumkb.com/collections/live/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
China/Global - Wuque Studio (https://shop.wuquestudio.com/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
UA/BEL/RU: Funkeys (https://groupbuy.funkeys.com.ua/cherry_blossom_deskmat)
South Asia/Middle East - StacksKB (https://stackskb.com/store/cherry-blossomx-deskmats/)
South Korea: Monstargears (https://www.monstargears.com/101/?idx=481)
Japan: Yushakobo (https://shop.yushakobo.jp/products/3329)
PH: Zionstudios (https://zionstudios.ph/product/groupbuy-cherry-blossomx-deksmat/)
Mexico: Rheset (https://rheset.mx/product/cherry-blossomx-deskmats/)
Taiwan: Inpad (https://www.inpad.com.tw/product.php?act=view&id=6922)


Greetings Geekhack!
This is an interest check for the “Cherry Blossomx” Deskmat Series


(https://i.imgur.com/y0OkTQW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/13JbUXJ.jpg)


Colourways

 
(https://i.imgur.com/fqg3hZ5.png)
 
Hanami (花見)
"Flower Viewing"
 
(https://i.imgur.com/PP4Asla.png)
 
Sakura (桜)
"Cherry Blossom"

(https://i.imgur.com/uSbyHkZ.png)
 
Fuji (藤)
"Wisteria"

(https://i.imgur.com/TJnZdQw.png)
 
Fuyu (冬)
"Winter"

(https://i.imgur.com/cw5W9oK.png)
 
Sumi-e (墨絵)
"Black Ink Painting"
(In the bottom right corner is a Japanese idiom which depicts the kanji for the four trees that bloom in spring: cherry, plum, apricot and peach. Each flower blooms in its own time and it represents that everyone is on their own journey through life.)

(https://i.imgur.com/yQyLSro.png)

Anzu (杏)
"Apricot"

(https://i.imgur.com/5rqw3y9.png)
 
Yozakura (夜桜)
"Night Cherry Blossom"

(https://i.imgur.com/qAoIsaX.png)
 
Ume (梅)
"Plum"
(A shout to Gateron Yellows)

(https://i.imgur.com/DQDYsHZ.png)
 
Tsubaki (椿)
"Camellia"

(https://i.imgur.com/5u1sOP5.png)
 
Eva (ヱヴァ)

(https://i.imgur.com/GrD7FpA.png)

Ao (青)
"Blue"


Kindly note that lighter colored designs (with Sumi-E as the exception) will have edge stitching that will match the background colour (the design will go over the edge), whereas the rest of the colourways will have black stitching on the edge. Sumi-E is the exception as I have compared both samples of white stitching vs black stitching, and found I preferred the clean contrast and framing the black stitched edges gave, whilst maintaining the monochromatic look.
Colourways with over the edge printing:

(https://i.imgur.com/xVQ6vdw.jpg)



Renders

(https://i.imgur.com/kAqT3UX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/prahv5H.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sMrjQFG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4rHoLOn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ipm4f0D.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EX77taN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mqXwgbM.jpg)

"Note, renders slightly out of date, showing version 1. There are a few more falling petals"



Design
(https://i.imgur.com/MlfMTtf.jpg)



Cherry Blossomx is a deskpad collection series evoking the classic beauty of Sakura trees but with a twist. Amidst the flower buds and falling petals in the wind, you might notice the branches are adorned with flowers transformed into MX-style switches! Frame your set-up with an elegant design that represents the mechanical as botanical. There’s a broad array of 11 colourways to fit just about any desk setup; and you also might notice that each design is a call-out to a different switch or keycap set!

Yozakura (Night Sakura) is to complement my love for Rose Gold keycap sets like GMK Olivia & JTK Night Sakura.
Fuji (Wisteria) is a reference to Lavender switches, which I personally think are one of the loveliest looking switches.
Fuyu (Winter), because baby blue flowers are beautiful. Penguin switches too.
Sumi-e (Black ink) is a shout-out to Gateron Ink Black switches, the previous classic standard for great sounding linear switches
Anzu (Apricot) is a nod to Holy Pandas, the most hyped custom MX switch... so much history and drama for what started as a frankenswitch.
Ume (Plum) is a tribute to Gateron Yellow switches, my first linear love on a budget.
Ao (Blue) for OA linear switches

Yes, I considered the greatest of all time switch, MX Browns, and yes, it looked like doo-doo



IC Poll/Feedback Form (https://forms.gle/wRp6QUghTGSkisuV8)


Specifications
900mmx400mmx4mm
Stitched Edging
Rubber non-slip bottom
Cloth-top


Stay Up to Date
 
via Discord Server (https://discord.gg/uzAsRvPEN9) | DMs: BobaSweatandTears#1659
via Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boba.kinks/)

(https://i.imgur.com/75mc7iq.jpg)
 

Thanks
- Oli (SA Geoma (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=112332.0;topicseen)) for the Deskmat mock-up template
- Wintheart for the indirect inspiration - sticker art of Sakurios (https://www.instagram.com/p/BzyOyEJnYcg/)
- Keyboard designers (such as CMM.studio, Rama.Works, TKC) for letting their keyboards being readily available to use for render purposes
- KRK

<3
BobaSweatandTears
(https://i.imgur.com/TqTGl6f.png)
 

If these aren’t your style, then I’d like to also plug other deskmats, such as:
 
Sol Deskmat (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=113296.0)
More
Umbra:
(https://i.imgur.com/2WENCKT.jpg)
& Hypatia:
(https://i.imgur.com/nWksWiv.png)

KAT Space Dust (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=110310.0)
i.e. Singularity, Aero-Sol, Vacuum:
More
(https://i.imgur.com/F3GkITb.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/y0ZA5TX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VCoz015.jpg)

And KAT Great Wave (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=110310.0) as well!
More
(https://i.imgur.com/ZjA8cow.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/oPfa4O5.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/33PQs3Y.jpg)
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/727823498659102740/847426250027827250/KAT-Great-Wave-Great-Cats-Deskmat-Picture-2560x1440-1.jpg)


Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: JohnYYZ on Sun, 11 July 2021, 09:28:13
Woah! That is some nice deskmats!  ;D
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Armyofkeyboards on Sun, 11 July 2021, 11:57:40
This looks pretty cool. Would love to see one with shades of green (Kiwis maybe?)

Definitely in for Hanami and Sakura.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: sagarsiddhpura on Sun, 11 July 2021, 12:55:35
DailyClack for OCE vendor please
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: matchaboba on Sun, 11 July 2021, 19:22:52
Following. These are pretty, OP :)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Xherion on Sun, 11 July 2021, 20:20:30
You’ve done it again, Boba!

All your deskmat designs are spectacular. I will be in on this.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: GLOVE on Sun, 11 July 2021, 20:36:22
Beautiful design
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: seikoholic on Mon, 12 July 2021, 03:10:46
Everytime Boba posts, money from my wallet disappears.

edit: feedback form does not work.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Mon, 12 July 2021, 07:56:32
Woah! That is some nice deskmats!  ;D
Beautiful design
You’ve done it again, Boba!

All your deskmat designs are spectacular. I will be in on this.
Following. These are pretty, OP :)
Thanks so much for the appreciative comments <3

This looks pretty cool. Would love to see one with shades of green (Kiwis maybe?)

Definitely in for Hanami and Sakura.
Cheers. I did give green a go and it looked alright, but it ultimately looked more like a tree branch then a flower branch, which is not really the effect I wanted. I also don't really want to run any more deskmat variations atm.

Everytime Boba posts, money from my wallet disappears.

edit: feedback form does not work.
thanks! Sorry not sorry about your wallet  :p.
(cheers link updated)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Scriba on Mon, 12 July 2021, 11:11:32
interested
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Tue, 13 July 2021, 09:20:15
Decided to do some renders:

Yozakura (夜桜)
"Night Cherry Blossom"

(https://i.imgur.com/75mc7iq.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/MlfMTtf.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/6yLIzMr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/sMrjQFG.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/EX77taN.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/y0OkTQW.jpg)


Fuji (藤)
"Wisteria"

(https://i.imgur.com/Ipm4f0D.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/prahv5H.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TKZgFcf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/13JbUXJ.jpg)


(Thanks to Rama Work and CMM Studio for permission to use their keyboards in renders)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: hali on Tue, 13 July 2021, 15:55:15
ok where are the cherry switches though
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Ensaum on Tue, 13 July 2021, 18:00:01
I'm probably in the minority here, but I'd much prefer there to not be pictures of switches inside the flowers and just have the flowers themselves. Otherwise I absolutely love these and would probably buy a couple different dark designs.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Thu, 15 July 2021, 04:11:01
Hi, thanks for all the feedback. I'm currently exploring adding more falling petals and/or adding calligraphy to cover more of the mat.
The following image is a draft and subject to change, but is the direction I'm thinking of:
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/863748951827677185/865154670090387456/unknown.png)

ok where are the cherry switches though
They're the original, but the black housing leads to black petals/flowers which is a bit difficult to pull off alongside the red, blue, or brown stems. It just doesn't look good imo and I have more than enough colourways currently. Consider the Sumi-e variant as the black housing version.
I'm probably in the minority here, but I'd much prefer there to not be pictures of switches inside the flowers and just have the flowers themselves. Otherwise I absolutely love these and would probably buy a couple different dark designs.
Hi, yeah I'm contemplating in the future re-doing a similar design with the flowers themselves without the switches, but that's a bit off in the future.
For now, I would rather stick to this more interesting/original concept first.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Acedia on Thu, 15 July 2021, 06:42:14
They're so pretty omg... Gorgeous

Just a #concept idk, perhaps instead of having the browns as the blossoming flowers, instead the leaves dying or falling off in autumn/winter? A poor little barren mx brown tree.
Perhaps may have already tried playing around with the undertones of those pesky browns as well, but in looking brown or black flowers seem to skew yellow & red respectively.

Either way, just my own ramblings. These I'd be very interested in picking up. <3
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Xherion on Thu, 15 July 2021, 08:57:31
Actually I really like it with the switches, it’s subtle and adding interesting twist / element of our hobby.

Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: sapisoi on Thu, 15 July 2021, 10:49:44
that fuyu deskmat tho  :-* looks so nice
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: funnelcakeee on Sat, 17 July 2021, 23:17:33
Hi, thanks for all the feedback. I'm currently exploring adding more falling petals and/or adding calligraphy to cover more of the mat.
The following image is a draft and subject to change, but is the direction I'm thinking of:
Show Image
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/863748951827677185/865154670090387456/unknown.png)


Thanks for considering my suggestion of adding additional petal designs to fill more of the mat. Have you tried exploring designs such as a few 'fallen' switches on the bottom/bottom right corner? Absolutely love the designs and can't wait for the GB! Will definitely purchase a few mats regardless of whatever the final products ends up to be
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Tiff0 on Sun, 18 July 2021, 00:34:58
I like the falling leaves, adds more movement. Boba makes, I buy!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Sun, 18 July 2021, 12:44:40
A bit more work done on the falling petals. Still debating on whether or not to include Kanji calligraphy.
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/863748951827677185/866283360639909888/unknown.png)
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/863748951827677185/866283300599627776/unknown.png)


They're so pretty omg... Gorgeous

Just a #concept idk, perhaps instead of having the browns as the blossoming flowers, instead the leaves dying or falling off in autumn/winter? A poor little barren mx brown tree.
Perhaps may have already tried playing around with the undertones of those pesky browns as well, but in looking brown or black flowers seem to skew yellow & red respectively.

Either way, just my own ramblings. These I'd be very interested in picking up. <3
Thanks for the suggestion. Brown is just a hard colour to make look good overall, so I'm going to avoid it as I have more than enough colourways.

Actually I really like it with the switches, it’s subtle and adding interesting twist / element of our hobby.
that fuyu deskmat tho  :-* looks so nice
Thanks <3

Thanks for considering my suggestion of adding additional petal designs to fill more of the mat. Have you tried exploring designs such as a few 'fallen' switches on the bottom/bottom right corner? Absolutely love the designs and can't wait for the GB! Will definitely purchase a few mats regardless of whatever the final products ends up to be
Cheers for the suggestion (there were a few ppl who also suggested adding more falling petals).
I' played a bit with fallen switches in the corner, which seemed good in theory, but I couldn't make it work out. It sort of altered the tree branch in the sky with petals falling vibe.
I like the falling leaves, adds more movement. Boba makes, I buy!
<3


Some fun renders of 2 of the other colours (albeit with the non-updated extra petals - sigh, going to have re-render a bunch):
(https://i.imgur.com/mqXwgbM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4rHoLOn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tBnKn19.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kAqT3UX.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: norahs on Fri, 23 July 2021, 06:42:26
i've had this thread on watch but i hadn't scrolled further down to the comments!
i personally like the simplicity of your inital designs! i like how it's a bit more empty space tho!
i feel like the petals are now a bit too much floating around? just me, maybe..
can't wait to see the final design you'll go with!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: drunken_sailor on Tue, 27 July 2021, 09:51:03
I love the simplicity of the original designs too; the branch ending on where the keyboard would likely sit is charming to me.

Absolutely beautiful designs.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: MichelKami on Tue, 27 July 2021, 21:59:21
I'll take all, thanks
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Wed, 28 July 2021, 02:39:49
i've had this thread on watch but i hadn't scrolled further down to the comments!
i personally like the simplicity of your inital designs! i like how it's a bit more empty space tho!
i feel like the petals are now a bit too much floating around? just me, maybe..
can't wait to see the final design you'll go with!

I love the simplicity of the original designs too; the branch ending on where the keyboard would likely sit is charming to me.

Absolutely beautiful designs.

Cheers. Yeah might have gone too far in the other direction, and I need to work out the best balance to add a touch more detail with falling petals without going overboard.
I am mindful in fact that with a keyboard on the mat, many of the petals will in fact be covered anyways...
The weeb in me wants to add calligraphy, but at the same time, less is more, so I'm now leaning against it.

I've been a bit busy doing some other projects, but will get back to this soon to finalise the design/colours, then pursue sample deskmat production.

I'll take all, thanks
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: JohnYYZ on Wed, 28 July 2021, 10:22:53
Darn you Boba......because now I need to get this for my Fuji65+JTK NS on top of the countless deskmats I have   ^-^
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Kansir on Wed, 28 July 2021, 13:20:09
oh boy I have to have these for my fuji65, would be such a nice setup  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Zyrophr on Wed, 28 July 2021, 16:46:44
Those looks fantastic. Hope I can snatch more than one when the GB happens!
GL!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: freather on Thu, 29 July 2021, 00:00:41
Please gib! I have my Fuji65 ready to be sitted.
Nice works on the renders!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Navyjai on Sat, 07 August 2021, 00:31:07
Love the twist! Will be eyeing for an Ume. GL!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: MrBingo on Sun, 08 August 2021, 00:09:59
I love them all, what a beautiful idea, give me 4 of each. :eek:
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: streetmeat5 on Sun, 08 August 2021, 21:03:17
The sumi looks fire omg
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: atlantiasekai on Mon, 09 August 2021, 05:24:52
This looks amazing! Would love to see a dark blue version as well
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Envious on Fri, 03 September 2021, 08:09:03
:O this is cute, I like the more monochrome  ones but I like!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Buburoo on Fri, 03 September 2021, 08:17:29
noice  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Faehriss on Fri, 03 September 2021, 09:55:09
Love this, the Fuyu and Fuji colourways are way too pretty!
Would love to see Mechboards UK as the UK vendor  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Tue, 07 September 2021, 11:02:16
Thanks everyone for the kind comments. I took a bit time away from this design so I could look at it again with fresh eyes, and upon revisiting it, have done some tweaks/updates:

- Added extra falling petals; hopefully it helps a bit with the flow. If you have a large keyboard (i.e. 1800/100%/75%) it probably doesn't make that much of a difference, but the extra petals frames smaller keyboards a bit better imo.

- Given the extra falling petals, the design feels less empty, thus I've decided to forego adding a calligraphy element for now to keep it 'clean'. I might revisit the corner calligraphy in the future if this is ever fortunate enough to get a R2 (wouldn't be for a while though).

- The only exception to this decision, is the Sumi-E colourway where it felt appropriate in the design to add a little flair in the bottom right corner. Being monochrome, there is more leeway here.
(https://i.imgur.com/vQTENkX.png)
- Instead of just going with the character for 'Sakura', I've instead opted for a 'seal' design that contains a Japanese idiom which depicts the kanji for the four trees that bloom in spring: cherry, plum, apricot and peach. Each flower blooms in its own time and it represents that everyone is on their own journey through life.

- Hanami (Flower Viewing) and Sakura flower/petals were made a bit more pink/saturated. After looking at more photos of Sakura flowers, I felt the first iteration wasn't pink enough.
(https://i.imgur.com/Vp7E3nV.png)

- Yozakura (Night Sakura) flower/petals were made a bit less pink, and more 'nude', in an attempt to differentiate it more towards rose gold, after looking closer at the rose gold accent keys of a popular GMK set.
(https://i.imgur.com/xVqKTpC.png)

- Fuji (Wisteria) colours were tweaked to be a bit more purple.
(https://i.imgur.com/fQiL2LN.png)

- Fuyu (Winter) colours were tweaked to be a lighter/icier blue
(https://i.imgur.com/NtMKjXR.png)

- Ume (Plum)[Gat Yellow] was made to have light yellow background instead of the original black version to add a bit more variety. It is the least popular colourway and I doubt this change will make it more popular, but I wanted it to look a bit more different from the Anzu (Apricot)[Holy Panda] variant. It's a tentative option atm.
(https://i.imgur.com/dw7Cvuc.png)

- Tsubaki (Camellia) - added a red colourway variation due to several requests. It remains tentative atm. Red Camellia reportedly means love, and also these spring flowers were very popular with nobles during the Edo Period, symbolising a noble death for samurai.
(https://i.imgur.com/klByhhj.png)

- I decided to have all colourways will have black stitching for clear framing and simplicity (1 less element for colour production decisions). Coloured / over the edge stitching didn't feel necessary, and renders with black stitching for the lighter coloured designs looks solid.

I'll have to get round to updating the renders in original post, but here are some with the tweaks incorporated:

(https://i.imgur.com/dfcZwNQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4o8evHf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mtGlpXS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mwIboV8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/J0Vu0hw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Xr84UKO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mtGlpXS.jpg)


Disclaimer: Note the above renders/mock-ups in this post are my best attempt of representation of the colours (working in a CYMK colour profile space) but digital images will always be a touch different from real world viewing. Samples will of course be ordered before the GB production to avoid any major issues (i.e. PBT Islander).

Also although the colours here were picked to potentially complement some keycap sets in mind, I do not guarantee any exact colour match, as colour reproduction on a cloth top mat is far different from plastic. These were just done via my eye's subjectivity on what I thought looked good in itself. The keycap sets in renders are not 100% exact matches to any existing ones.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Acedia on Tue, 07 September 2021, 19:32:04
Loving the new Ume version, If that ends up being the final I'd be picking it up :)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: shadowine on Tue, 07 September 2021, 22:21:23
A bit more work done on the falling petals. Still debating on whether or not to include Kanji calligraphy.
Show Image
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/863748951827677185/866283360639909888/unknown.png)

Show Image
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/863748951827677185/866283300599627776/unknown.png)



They're so pretty omg... Gorgeous

Just a #concept idk, perhaps instead of having the browns as the blossoming flowers, instead the leaves dying or falling off in autumn/winter? A poor little barren mx brown tree.
Perhaps may have already tried playing around with the undertones of those pesky browns as well, but in looking brown or black flowers seem to skew yellow & red respectively.

Either way, just my own ramblings. These I'd be very interested in picking up. <3
Thanks for the suggestion. Brown is just a hard colour to make look good overall, so I'm going to avoid it as I have more than enough colourways.

Actually I really like it with the switches, it’s subtle and adding interesting twist / element of our hobby.
that fuyu deskmat tho  :-* looks so nice
Thanks <3

Thanks for considering my suggestion of adding additional petal designs to fill more of the mat. Have you tried exploring designs such as a few 'fallen' switches on the bottom/bottom right corner? Absolutely love the designs and can't wait for the GB! Will definitely purchase a few mats regardless of whatever the final products ends up to be
Cheers for the suggestion (there were a few ppl who also suggested adding more falling petals).
I' played a bit with fallen switches in the corner, which seemed good in theory, but I couldn't make it work out. It sort of altered the tree branch in the sky with petals falling vibe.
I like the falling leaves, adds more movement. Boba makes, I buy!
<3


Some fun renders of 2 of the other colours (albeit with the non-updated extra petals - sigh, going to have re-render a bunch):
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/mqXwgbM.jpg)

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/4rHoLOn.jpg)

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/tBnKn19.jpg)

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/kAqT3UX.jpg)

I really enjoy the purple with the grey branch it’s more clean to me instead of brown. Also this is insanely creative and very beautiful! I really look forward to the groupbuy keep up the good work!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Wed, 08 September 2021, 03:46:22
I really enjoy the purple with the grey branch it’s more clean to me instead of brown. Also this is insanely creative and very beautiful! I really look forward to the groupbuy keep up the good work!

Ah I've been debating about what colour branch would be best and remain unsure if I should stick to brown, or shift over to gray. I flip flop on this a fair bit:
(https://i.imgur.com/09mrL0j.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MfyEiox.jpg)
I've added another question/poll to the Feedback form (https://forms.gle/wRp6QUghTGSkisuV8) to help gather more data on people's preferences.

Loving the new Ume version, If that ends up being the final I'd be picking it up :)
Thanks! Glad the new Ume version has a fan.


I remain a bit unsure if I may have added 1-2 petals too many, and now considering doing a final tweak and removing 1-2 of the most bottom petals. I don't know how I feel about having those bottom most petals being visible on <75% keyboards. I'm now leaning towards removing them. Such a minor thing that's taking me ages to decide on (sigh)

(https://i.imgur.com/j2elNbJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3EBt7EL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mwIboV8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2Z5x6sj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dfcZwNQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/J0Vu0hw.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: norahs on Wed, 08 September 2021, 16:10:50
oof the new ume is stunning!! i def would be picking up the ume and anzu one, just to have the varation hehe
however the tsubaki one is just wow!!!!!
i love the small stamp update for the monochrome one, very clean and chique!!

my 2 cents on the design hesitation:
personally i like the brown branch with the purple! :-) gives it a more soft, warm feeling rather than grey, which is a colder colour!
as i did like the simplicity of your initial designs with the minimal petals, i do think considering removing the bottom 2 petals would be just as great!

beyond excited for this, hope to see it soon!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Sat, 11 September 2021, 00:06:47
oof the new ume is stunning!! i def would be picking up the ume and anzu one, just to have the varation hehe
however the tsubaki one is just wow!!!!!
i love the small stamp update for the monochrome one, very clean and chique!!

my 2 cents on the design hesitation:
personally i like the brown branch with the purple! :-) gives it a more soft, warm feeling rather than grey, which is a colder colour!
as i did like the simplicity of your initial designs with the minimal petals, i do think considering removing the bottom 2 petals would be just as great!

beyond excited for this, hope to see it soon!

Thanks for the feedback <3. I do agree brown branch is much more 'warmer' than the gray and that's where I've leant 55% of the time, but I can see why people prefer the gray branch as well.
Due to my indecision, I've added the question to the poll and will start doing more promotion on reddit to get a bit more data on preferences. Ultimately I think I'll go with what's most popular, but if it's a close poll, I'll try and hope for a R2 one day, and offer the other variant.

I'm don't want to add more colourways, but I've decided to add the following to the Google form for polling just to see if there is any demand, because there's lots of Evangelion fans. It might be a bit too niche for me to offer, but I thought it was worth exploring interest
(https://i.imgur.com/mKR00b9.png)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Xherion on Sat, 11 September 2021, 04:35:07
Thanks for the update, and I filled up the IC form
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: norahs on Mon, 13 September 2021, 18:44:57
ooo another update, im living for your updates!!
im not exactly an evangelion fan but i can sure appreciate this colour way too!!
but my top picks do remain the same hehe

filled in the IC form accordingly! :-)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: CherryLuci on Wed, 29 September 2021, 07:08:22
These are really nice mats. Ive filled it the IC last month. Hope to see this make to group buy soon !
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: FXSD on Fri, 22 October 2021, 20:50:03
Just wondering.. Is it possible to have a desk mat with painted sakura (or other flowers) instead of the switches? Might be more attractive.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: kkd_20 on Sat, 23 October 2021, 00:44:53
Just give me already
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Fri, 05 November 2021, 11:06:41
Tentatively aiming for Group buy to occur in December
Vendor list updated.
Round 1 samples have arrived and I took some amateur shots at home on my trusty LG phone, on either my bed or the dinner table at different times of the day.
Note that Sumi-E will have a black stitched edge (unlike R1 sample).

(https://i.imgur.com/xVQ6vdw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/E2EJIvu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kIHYz0J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uXQxjda.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IlM4mYy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pLYXOCR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uQFt3YU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/R5l1KVp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EF2COkU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/il207Fr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Uwc2ryh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PHkgdTZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GJFWtta.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ivfBTju.jpg)

Album: https://imgur.com/a/4D3osYj (would advise not loading this if on limited phone data)
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Anthixious on Fri, 05 November 2021, 16:40:29
These look like some good samples so far! :D
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: spiritusluna on Thu, 11 November 2021, 17:41:19
These deskmats look great!! The keycap sets you rendered in Fuyu and Wisteria look absolutely gorgeous! I hope you think about turning them into an actual concept, I'd love to get these pastel keycaps!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Vorge on Fri, 26 November 2021, 02:12:21
I think Im in love
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Fri, 26 November 2021, 02:47:44
Thanks for all the pleasant responses!

Groupbuy date start is being planned for 1st December.

Top 7 confirmed colourways based on poll:
- Hanami
- Sakura
- Yozakura
- Fuji
- Fuyu
- Anzu
- Sumi-E

Tentative ones that are being considered at last minute for inclusion are:
- Eva (Purple/green)
- Ao (blue)
- Tsubaki (Red)
- Ume (yellow)

Despite Ume (Yellow) being quite nice, I'm worried about it reaching MOQ (Colourway needs to reach 100 in each with the chosen manufacturer to be made) since it is a lighter colour, and darker colours tend to be a bit more popular. Thus it might not make it this round.

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/863748951827677185/913608113888849950/20211126_125209.jpg)
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/886849796617420801/913608654052261908/20211126_125352.jpg)
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/886849796617420801/913608600558137404/20211101_140136_HDR.jpg)


Currently Eva and Ao are fore-runners as the final colourway inclusions.

Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: norahs on Fri, 26 November 2021, 17:24:41
the ume thooooooo
but beyond excited for the groupbuy! can't wait!!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats
Post by: Bobatype on Tue, 30 November 2021, 07:07:18
The Cherry Blossomx deskpad Group Buy is starting soon/tomorrow! 1st December and will go on until the end of the month.

Ultimately, after difficulties on deciding which ones to cull, we've decided to be ambitious and offer 11 colourways in this groupbuy run despite the MOQ per colourway. If this is fortunate to get R2 one day, the same extensive range may not be offered again.

The manufacturer for these deskpads will be Wuque Studios. The deskpads will also have a waterproofing treatment applied to the surface.

Here's the list of confirmed vendors:

Vendors
USVala.Supply
CanadaMech.land
EuropeMyKeyboard.Eu
UKProto[Typist]
OceaniaDailyClack
SEA/SGiLumKB
PhillipinesZion Studios
South KoreaMonstargears
JapanYushakobo
South Asia/Middle EastStacksKB
Ukraine/Russia/BelarusFunKeys
MexicoRheset
China/Rest of the WorldWuque Studio
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB starts Dec 1 (soon)
Post by: Bobatype on Wed, 01 December 2021, 14:19:10
Hi, GB starts today (depending on timezone)

The Current Vendor List (I will repost/edit when I hear news of more links going live):

USA - Vala Supply - https://vala.supply/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats
Canada - Mech.land - https://mech.land/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats
Europe - My Keyboard EU - https://mykeyboard.eu/catalogue/category/group-buys/deskmats/cherry-blossomx-deskmat_640/
UK - Proto[Typist] - https://prototypist.net/products/group-buy-cherry-blossomx-deskmats
OCE - Daily Clack - https://dailyclack.com/collections/group-buys/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats
Singapore/Malaysia - iLumkb - https://ilumkb.com/collections/live/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats
China/Global - Wuque Studio - https://shop.wuquestudio.com/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats
South Asia/Middle East - StacksKB - https://stackskb.com/store/cherry-blossomx-deskmats/
South Korea: Monstargears - https://www.monstargears.com/101/?idx=481
Japan: Yushakobo - https://shop.yushakobo.jp/products/3329
PH: Zionstudios - https://zionstudios.ph/product/groupbuy-cherry-blossomx-deksmat/
Mexico: Rheset - https://rheset.mx/product/cherry-blossomx-deskmats/
UA/BEL/RU: Funkeys - https://groupbuy.funkeys.com.ua/cherry_blossom_deskmat

-
COLOUR OPTIONS:
* Hanami (花見) - pink on black (black stitched edge)
* Sakura (桜) - pink on light pink
* Yozakura (夜桜) - rose gold pink on black (black stitched edge)
* Fuji (藤) - lavender & white on lavender
* Fuyu (冬) - blue & white on light blue
* Anzu (杏) - white & apricot on black (black stitched edge)
* Sumi-E (墨絵) - black on white (black stitched edge)
* Eva (ヱヴァ) - purple & green on black (black stitched edge)
* Ao (青) - blue & white on dark blue (black stitched edge)
* Ume (梅) - yellow on light yellow
* Tsubaki (椿) - red on black (black stitched edge)

SPECIFICATIONS:
    Extra large (XL) size, 900x400mm (~35.4 x 15.7 inches) with 4mm thickness
    Anti-fray stitched edges
    High quality cloth top and rubber anti-slip bottom
    Waterproof surface treatment!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: nurungjii on Sat, 04 December 2021, 17:13:55
Hi, these look great! Do you know if these are machine washable?
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: Bobatype on Mon, 06 December 2021, 01:25:09
Hi, these look great! Do you know if these are machine washable?

Hi, thanks :).
I've asked the manufacturer proxy contact, and they says it's possible, but they don't recommend it.. Generally the safest method for cleaning deskmats genrally, is dusting it off, rinsing it in water, or soaking it in the bathtub, then light scrubbing, followed by air/drip drying. I know there are some deskmats that are machine washable in cold water at the lightest settings (a lot less effort), but I'm not really knowledgeable enough to know if it'll work in this case or damage will be done.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: Bobatype on Fri, 10 December 2021, 01:42:25
Pretty render with Hanami for attention:

(https://i.redd.it/35ftylwl9q381.jpg)

Note that I fully intend to make the colourway for this keycap set with a PBT cherry profile manu. The primary theme will be something weeb (to be revealed), although Sakura novelties will be an option. I get that there will be those who see an overlap in similarity with JTK Night Sakura, but I believe there will be sufficient differences I can display that will let it stand on its own.

On that note that Yozakura is much more rose gold pink than Hanami, so please factor that in:
(https://i.redd.it/zniq1jbzvc481.jpg)


Introducing the vendor Inpad added for the Taiwan region:

Vendors

USA - Vala Supply (https://vala.supply/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
Canada - Mech.land (https://mech.land/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
Europe - My Keyboard EU (https://mykeyboard.eu/catalogue/category/group-buys/deskmats/cherry-blossomx-deskmat_640/)
UK - Proto[Typist] (https://prototypist.net/products/group-buy-cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
OCE - Daily Clack (https://dailyclack.com/collections/group-buys/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
Singapore/Malaysia - iLumkb (https://ilumkb.com/collections/live/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
China/Global - Wuque Studio (https://shop.wuquestudio.com/products/cherry-blossomx-deskmats)
UA/BEL/RU: Funkeys (https://groupbuy.funkeys.com.ua/cherry_blossom_deskmat)
South Asia/Middle East - StacksKB (https://stackskb.com/store/cherry-blossomx-deskmats/)
South Korea: Monstargears (https://www.monstargears.com/101/?idx=481)
Japan: Yushakobo (https://shop.yushakobo.jp/products/3329)
PH: Zionstudios (https://zionstudios.ph/product/groupbuy-cherry-blossomx-deksmat/)
Mexico: Rheset (https://rheset.mx/product/cherry-blossomx-deskmats/)
Taiwan: Inpad (https://www.inpad.com.tw/product.php?act=view&id=6922)


1 week into groupbuy and based on preliminary data from US sales:
Colourway preferences are Hanami, then Sakura, then Yozakura, Sumi-E, with Fuji and Anzu tied in 5th.
The least popular colourway is Ume :(

There is a GB post, but it is still awaiting for mod approval, thus this thread will remain unlocked until then in case there are further discussions/questions on the deskmat design.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: norahs on Fri, 10 December 2021, 16:48:51
1 week into groupbuy and based on preliminary data from US sales:
Colourway preferences are Hanami, then Sakura, then Yozakura, Sumi-E, with Fuji and Anzu tied in 5th.
The least popular colourway is Ume :(

There is a GB post, but it is still awaiting for mod approval, thus this thread will remain unlocked until then in case there are further discussions/questions on the deskmat design.

ahhh my heart breaks when you said Ume is the least popular one :-(
as Anzu and Ume are my personal favourites.. omg
i havent fully taken the plunge yet whether if i want both or just one!
but for sure would love either if not both of these, even if theyre less popular t .t
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: Kisyunie on Fri, 10 December 2021, 19:40:11
Good to see I have time to get one of these deskmats....or a couple lol.
Sad to see that Ume is the least popular
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: Bobatype on Mon, 13 December 2021, 19:38:25
Half-way point of GB thus far!


Render with the EVA deskmat in case you were contemplating a Mecha themed build:

(https://i.imgur.com/iM1aXKo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/d6B0Iwv.jpg)

(Note: this is just a mock version of GMK Mecha-01 (the actual set has different novelties))
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: lilredrobinhood on Wed, 15 December 2021, 06:56:21
Absolutely love these! Trying to not buy them all tho would it be possible to get a picture of the Anzu, Yozakura, and Hanami overlapping each other? It’s hard for me to visually see the differences.
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: HYTE-Eddie on Wed, 15 December 2021, 16:26:25
AH!  One of each please! These are awesome!!
Title: Re: [IC] Cherry Blossomx Deskmats - GB LIVE Dec 1-30
Post by: Bobatype on Wed, 22 December 2021, 00:02:41
With just over a week left until the end of groupbuy, thanks to all who've jumped in :)
 
I'm doing a small giveaway for the holiday celebrations via my instagram @boba.kinks (https://www.instagram.com/boba.kinks/).
Once the mods approve the GB thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?reportsent;topic=115530), I'll post logistics of production when that commences. Do note that Lunar New Year is coming up in Mid-January which will likely add a 2 week pause in the production process.

Absolutely love these! Trying to not buy them all tho would it be possible to get a picture of the Anzu, Yozakura, and Hanami overlapping each other? It’s hard for me to visually see the differences.
Hi there, just get all 3 haha. Anyways here are some photos I took a while ago from the first batch of sample prototypes for comparison:
Anzu: https://i.imgur.com/kIHYz0J.jpg
Yozakura vs Hanami: https://i.imgur.com/Ez3eMxh.jpg

AH!  One of each please! These are awesome!!

Thank you <3