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geekhack Marketplace => Artisan Services => Hunger Work Studio => Topic started by: Binge on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:57:33

Title: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:57:33
<2018 Update>

The :~$ynth project has taken new life recently with the help of Joey Quin and www.salvun.com.  Everyone involved in the project has had a hand in improving the functionality of the tool for artists of all skill levels.  A few key alterations and improvements to the product and its availability are as follows:



Pricing (https://techkeys.us/products/synth?mc_cid=56bae52b35&mc_eid=623e3b434f):

À la cartePrice
Mold Box:
40.70$
Backing Plate:
36.30$
Stem:
35$
:~$ynth Base:
60.50$
Mold Box, Stem, Base:
129.58$
Backing Plate + Mold Box + Stem + Base:164.07$

Bad Videos:  (Remind me to update these with better vids)

https://photos.app.goo.gl/W435BbnCe8JzYmBPA

<Old Post Starts Here!>

..is..

A new opportunity for artisans and resin casting enthusiasts.  After months of collaboration between Techkeys.us and Binge from HungerWorkStudio, crucially assisted by Joey Quinn (CAD implementation), and finally machined by NudeCNC I would like to first showcase by photo the alpha and beta of :~$ynth.

(http://imgur.com/Sxv5LSF.jpg)
(http://imgur.com/jitDyz5.jpg)
(http://imgur.com/qaszdFk.jpg)
(http://imgur.com/y1ug1bb.jpg)

The concept is to put a high quality mold part, at an affordable cost, in the hands of seasoned enthusiasts as well as folks who are brand new to casting and may want to try their hand gravity casting.  The technical features of this part include,


In addition to being one of the driving collaborators of this project, I have agreed to test and determine the necessary workflow in order to use such a part.  This means that I will be offering video tutorials and my very first HWS keycap this year will be a demonstration of this part's amazing application for artisan keycaps.

Get ready to step it up guys :)

< END.Update1 >

< START.Update2 >


< END.Update2 >

< START.Update3 >

Apply directly to $ynth!  The commercial is terrible but this product is amazing.

(http://i.imgur.com/OMcwIhL.jpg)

In earlier posts I mentioned that I would be sculpting my new HWS keycap.  In the picture above I'm laying some foundation work which will be more obvious in the future, but for now just know that sculpting directly onto the $ynth is EZ-PZ.  Brush on a very light coating of olive/vegetable oil if you are using epoxy, but something like Sculpy would not require any sort of release agent to protect the teflon coating of the mold part.

< END.Update3 >

< START.Update 4 >

A strong foundation is the key to a successful project.

I hope these pictures capture enough of what is happening to better explain myself because at times like this when I am most focused on the project my words are at best messy.  Below each picture the text will explain my intentions and observations.

(http://i.imgur.com/0u3IyHA.jpg)

The epoxy I have used has set and was easily removed from the mold without damage to the :~$ynth.  A few choice dimensions of the mold were captured in the epoxy most importantly the perimeter limit and gates.  The perimeter of the platform built into the :~$ynth is measured to best represent the dimensions of 1x keycaps.  So long as no detail of the sculpted keycap escapes this perimeter it will not have friction problems with keyboard cases and surrounding keycaps.  The gates are important for details later to come in my demonstration, but remember that it is very important that they are captured by the epoxy.

(http://i.imgur.com/rpsdNvE.jpg)

Please be aware that this part is not finished.  At some point I will have to add extra epoxy to it.  Two factors have made that difficult.  The first factor is that epoxy, if left alone, will dry with an almost glassy finish, and the second is the residual oil left on the epoxy part.  I have already washed the part with soap and water, but we need to use an old fashioned clay working technique to truly have a finished foundation piece.

(http://i.imgur.com/r63G13n.jpg)

After lightly applying some coarse sandpaper (250 grit) the surface of the part will better accept new epoxy applied to its surface.  Do not worry about how this looks because additional finishing work will be done later.  This is meant to be a foundation piece in the project and does not need to be pretty as much as it needs to capture the perimeter and gates of the mold.

(http://i.imgur.com/WsuGRCz.jpg)

Before continuing I apply a new layer of oil to the mold as it was removed by the first application of epoxy to the mold.  Protecting the :~$ynth is important to its longevity in this project.  Always remember release agent with your good tools.

< END.Update 4 >

< START.Update 5 >

A few people have raised concerns about the utility of this system.  I'd like to assure you that we're doing our best to make it work with a number of different stems.

(http://i.imgur.com/8fNiUBq.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/5dR1ynz.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/iZjxCDu.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/tPWX9WN.jpg)

Looking forward to sharing more with you all.

< END.Update 5 >

< START.Update 6 >

It's been a bit since I had commented on this project and my own progress.  We started working on the Polar Ice/Glacier/whateverthemonkey combo of ultramarine, off-white, trans sapphire-sea blue and I just haven't spent the time needed on continuing my first HWS cap made with the :~$ynth.

Short update, but maybe a few people will piece together what's happening as it progresses.

(http://i.imgur.com/GE7YLqQ.jpg)

I used my slow set sculpting epoxy and oil as the release agent from the :~$ynth.

< END.Update 6>

< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)

For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

< START.Update 8 >

Blehuelelalola-blaahhhhhh

(http://i.imgur.com/mDggnHI.jpg)

< END.Update 8 >

< START.Update 9 >

So I broke my jaw a few times today.  It's about 1mm thick in most places and the epoxy isn't exactly up to the abuse I normally dish out on a thick application, apparently neither am I.   :p  Ohhhh frustration and repairs.

While that sits and sets I wanted to illustrate how I've begun to build up the upper jaw/skull of this new design.

(http://i.imgur.com/yIlgVXP.jpg)

Rough surfaces are easier to adhere new layers of epoxy.  This step will save me some trouble of sanding and cleaning epoxy dust off/out of the part.  The part is anchored in the maker's mark hole and rear gate/runner for stability when I'm adding more material to it later.  Hope it all works out!

< END.Update 9 >

< START.Update 10 >
(http://i.imgur.com/1VUgULz.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)

OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>

< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)

aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >

< START.Update 12 >

Cast the lower jaw in a delicious bone white.

(http://i.imgur.com/WotR6c8.jpg)

< END.Update 12 >

< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)

< END.Update 13 >

< START.Update 14>

Project complete.  I present to you the first HWS Keycap - Hungrkey

Made a test-shot to test integrity of mold for final casting.  Below is a picture of the test shot next to the skeletal parts to Hungrkey on the :~$ynth ready for final casting.

(http://i.imgur.com/loFcOiP.jpg)

After casting with some optically clear resin the final Hungrkey features really comes together.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCaXBYkFWkp/

It's been an absolute pleasure to complete this project after such a long term of planning and the with overwhelming support of my affiliate artists/makers/vendors.

(http://i.imgur.com/hWT3w5g.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wbcc8OG.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/aXsL8yr.jpg)

< END.Update 14 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: aznairjordan on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:58:02
What
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Glenmael on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:58:20
And here I thought you were posting some sweet tracks...  :cool:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nmur on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:58:21
:eek:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: cooldiscretion on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:58:25
Oh, wow. Very cool stuff indeed.



Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:58:36
OH lawd what is it gonna beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:58:45
Can't wait to see more!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fanpeople on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:58:46
Place holder  :blank:

I can do that too
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Dongulator on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:59:16
I'm scared!!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: naasfu on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:59:18
< o_O >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: KatzenKinder on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:59:20
YUM YUM
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ImpendingxDoom on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:59:37
Excitebike for the Nintendo Entertainment System
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HekusuTekusu on Sun, 10 January 2016, 23:59:59
This should be fun. What could Synth be.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:01:14
Having an intense internal debate on if I should stay awake to see whats up......
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: aznairjordan on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:01:38
Having an intense internal debate on if I should stay awake to see whats up......

I was just about to go to sleep :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: t347 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:02:48
Hype
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:03:04
Having an intense internal debate on if I should stay awake to see whats up......

I was just about to go to sleep :(

Same! I was getting undressed for the beddy byes and tapatalk pushed a notification to my phone and now I'm like @.@ what do.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: OTD on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:04:03
Ooooh Lawdy.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: phruitpie on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:04:34

Having an intense internal debate on if I should stay awake to see whats up......

I was just about to go to sleep :(

you guys sleep, I'll totally wake ya if anything goes down ;)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:05:47
Dis gon be good!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Telephasic on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:06:01
Let's do this
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:06:09

Having an intense internal debate on if I should stay awake to see whats up......

I was just about to go to sleep :(

you guys sleep, I'll totally wake ya if anything goes down ;)

(http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/uncyclopedia/images/d/de/Suspicious.gif/revision/latest?cb=20060407011007)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: phruitpie on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:09:39
Show Image
(http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/uncyclopedia/images/d/de/Suspicious.gif/revision/latest?cb=20060407011007)


(https://media.giphy.com/media/10YRbZ33HcLZbW/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theteam on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:10:48
whats going on
(http://i.imgur.com/Oa9Uh.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:11:38
More
Show Image
(http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/uncyclopedia/images/d/de/Suspicious.gif/revision/latest?cb=20060407011007)


Show Image
(https://media.giphy.com/media/10YRbZ33HcLZbW/giphy.gif)


(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/P45SDnPfgq79Cwm_S5V-JHJlcMCouJEhnuAZxQZ1rzwwB2gP114AAxbTJWxkm3eiyItF7MZrP05kIblSB7ouPyAu_8LkyxRUyM1euvbXzdFJNPE_QoI06u9hOg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: septamber on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:14:34
Binge hype!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dthai17 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:16:13
Damn synthssss ;D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zapheo on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:21:54
This is going to be epic! :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:23:59
For longtime users who are more familiar with flash sales, what do you estimate are the chances of this thing opening in the next 30 minutes?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: KnivesM on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:24:27
Oooh Hype!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: beehatch on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:27:15
synth me bb one more time
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:29:56
 :eek: Synth Hype!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:31:54
Binge hasn't been online for a while. **** it going to bed.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SploogeFactory on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:37:40
Deckmaster but synth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Jokrik on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:38:08
wooot woooot
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:41:48

Binge hasn't been online for a while. **** it going to bed.

You can hide being online...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bocahgundul on Mon, 11 January 2016, 00:50:50
Yehawwww
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: toxicdrift on Mon, 11 January 2016, 01:01:19
waiting  and hope we get some topre keys :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sed8op8 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 01:45:57
Say whaaaaaaat
Whoisdisdoin'this$YNTHetictypeofalphabetapsychedelicfunkin'?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 3K on Mon, 11 January 2016, 01:47:32
One of each please!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: linkshine on Mon, 11 January 2016, 01:48:59
Who has 2 thumbs and is spamming F5 nervously??

(http://gifrific.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/This-Guy-Jim-Halpert-The-Office.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: QuickDelat on Mon, 11 January 2016, 02:11:30
so this is why I couldn't sleep
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Toxic-i- on Mon, 11 January 2016, 02:17:23
Was ist da los?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MAR82 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 02:45:40
inb4 sales starts or thread closes
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gadzkun on Mon, 11 January 2016, 03:00:55
im shoked!!! shocking sodaaaa
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theginginator on Mon, 11 January 2016, 03:04:13
Its 3 in the morning here, can you guys keep it down? :p
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gadzkun on Mon, 11 January 2016, 03:22:11
Its 3 in the morning here, can you guys keep it down? :p

but its still 4pm here :rolleyes:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 3K on Mon, 11 January 2016, 03:30:24
Its 3 in the morning here, can you guys keep it down? :p

but its still 4pm here :rolleyes:

Here it's time to monitor the thread :3
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jaffers on Mon, 11 January 2016, 03:30:55
BLAKA! BLAKA! BLAKA!

dis is gonna be gud  :confused:  ;D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nocturalowl on Mon, 11 January 2016, 04:47:12
What is this?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 11 January 2016, 04:52:52
(http://assets.vg247.com/current//2015/11/fallout4_guide_valentine_face.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Jokrik on Mon, 11 January 2016, 05:04:48
What is this?

It's an epiphany  :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: DAVYtm on Mon, 11 January 2016, 05:09:44
Can't trust synths :-X
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gadzkun on Mon, 11 January 2016, 05:17:31
Can't trust synths :-X

revenge of the synth  :cool:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MAR82 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 05:17:51
Can't trust synths :-X

I'm going to guess that you joined the Brotherhood of Steel faction
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: pr0ximity on Mon, 11 January 2016, 05:27:39
Binge, not you too! Was so nice not having cryptic threads for your caps
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Supergeek on Mon, 11 January 2016, 05:33:12
No, I don't have all of your stupid Eddie Winter holotapes yet! Shut up, Valentine!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Mon, 11 January 2016, 05:59:34
So much excite! But are you a synth?

Is this the techkeys thing?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: UTEster750 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 06:19:10
(https://gfycat.com/ActualFeistyBettong)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: tchevass on Mon, 11 January 2016, 06:29:49
Soon
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: UTEster750 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 06:47:45
Soon

Not soonTM enough
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 11 January 2016, 06:47:54
Hmmmmm
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 06:51:28

Hmmmmm

Hoff is you know anything don't tell anyone :o it will ruin everything! idk what everything is.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 11 January 2016, 06:52:57
Hype :o
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 11 January 2016, 06:53:50
Hmmmmm

Hoff is you know anything don't tell anyone :o it will ruin everything! idk what everything is.

I know nothing, my friend.  ^-^
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Burt Macklin on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:01:05
Binge hype!

Bype!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: sth on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:06:10
synth! (tattoo mode)
(http://i.imgur.com/zEDY5HA.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: DAVYtm on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:06:47
Can't trust synths :-X

I'm going to guess that you joined the Brotherhood of Steel faction

 ;)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: keshley on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:07:11
I'm expecting some 80s music... Harold Faltermeyer perhaps?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:08:28
Does synth have anything to do with David Bowie passing away :(?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HannahPeach on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:16:38
meh
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dustinhxc on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:21:37
And here I thought you were posting some sweet tracks...  :cool:

Heheh
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:46:45
Show Image
(http://assets.vg247.com/current//2015/11/fallout4_guide_valentine_face.jpg)


Soooooo, what happened to this guy?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: LXXXIX on Mon, 11 January 2016, 07:56:05
Hmmm...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: lolpes on Mon, 11 January 2016, 08:27:32
well hello there :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zanduby on Mon, 11 January 2016, 08:30:04
Very interested to see what new stuff Binge has for HWS!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 11 January 2016, 08:30:31
Aww ****. Time to get hungry boys and girls.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:40:56
Aww ****. Time to get hungry boys and girls.

om nom nom
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Incredigasmic on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:43:20
This is.....different.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:46:23
< START.Update1 >

:~$ynth is

A new opportunity for artisans and resin casting enthusiasts.  After months of collaboration between Techkeys.us and Binge from HungerWorkStudio, crucially assisted by Joey Quinn, and finally engineered by NudeCNC I would like to first showcase by photo the alpha and beta of :~$ynth.

(http://imgur.com/Sxv5LSF.jpg)
(http://imgur.com/jitDyz5.jpg)
(http://imgur.com/qaszdFk.jpg)
(http://imgur.com/y1ug1bb.jpg)

The concept is to put a high quality mold part, at an affordable cost, in the hands of seasoned enthusiasts as well as folks who are brand new to casting and may want to try their hand gravity casting.  The technical features of this part include,


In addition to being one of the driving collaborators of this project, I have agreed to test and determine the necessary workflow in order to use such a part.  This means that I will be offering video tutorials and my very first HWS keycap this year will be a demonstration of this part's amazing application for artisan keycaps.

Get ready to step it up guys :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Glenmael on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:46:47
..is..

A new opportunity for artisans and resin casting enthusiasts.  After months of collaboration between Techkeys.us and Binge from HungerWorkStudio, crucially assisted by Joey Quinn, and finally engineered by NudeCNC I would like to first showcase by photo the alpha and beta of :~$ynth.

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/Sxv5LSF.jpg)

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/jitDyz5.jpg)

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/qaszdFk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/y1ug1bb.jpg)


The concept is to put a high quality mold part, at an affordable cost, in the hands of seasoned enthusiasts as well as folks who are brand new to casting and may want to try their hand gravity casting.  The technical features of this part include,

  • All machined Aluminum construction
  • Designed in part to work alongside flexible silicone molds
  • Maker's mark place-holder
  • large spure/gate/runner system
  • Tight fitting Cherry MX stem insert for a precision fit.
  • Teflon coating to ease in mold release

In addition to being one of the driving collaborators of this project, I have agreed to test and determine the necessary workflow in order to use such a part.  This means that I will be offering video tutorials and my very first HWS keycap this year will be a demonstration of this part's amazing application for artisan keycaps.

Get ready to step it up guys :)

< END.Update1 >

That sounds amazing, great work guys!  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:48:50
< START.Update1 >

:~$ynth is

A new opportunity for artisans and resin casting enthusiasts.  After months of collaboration between Techkeys.us and Binge from HungerWorkStudio, crucially assisted by Joey Quinn, and finally engineered by NudeCNC I would like to first showcase by photo the alpha and beta of :~$ynth.

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/Sxv5LSF.jpg)

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/jitDyz5.jpg)

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/qaszdFk.jpg)

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/y1ug1bb.jpg)


The concept is to put a high quality mold part, at an affordable cost, in the hands of seasoned enthusiasts as well as folks who are brand new to casting and may want to try their hand gravity casting.  The technical features of this part include,

  • All machined Aluminum construction
  • Designed in part to work alongside flexible silicone molds
  • Maker's mark place-holder
  • large spure/gate/runner system
  • Tight fitting Cherry MX stem insert for a precision fit.
  • Teflon coating to ease in mold release

In addition to being one of the driving collaborators of this project, I have agreed to test and determine the necessary workflow in order to use such a part.  This means that I will be offering video tutorials and my very first HWS keycap this year will be a demonstration of this part's amazing application for artisan keycaps.

Get ready to step it up guys :)

This is so awesome! Can't wait to see what everyone does with it as well as your demonstrations!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:49:02
That's awesome Binge! I'd love to give cap creation a shot and this seems to be the perfect way to start, thanks. :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:51:39
a few keys were made during the holidays :)

(http://i.imgur.com/G5SP7wm.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/mJa83Hx.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/vdxNn93.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEzDCV.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/9m5yhMr.png)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Dongulator on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:51:51
OH ****!!!!! this is the Best News of 2016!! Time to make my own blanks, own designs. woohoo.. Best News
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:52:29
You made those keys with the Synth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:52:54
This is amazing. When can we buy it?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:53:02
"I'll sell my inventions so that everyone can have powers artisans. Everyone can be super an artisan-maker! And when everyone's super an artisan-maker... no one will be the price will plummet and the trend will no longer be profitable." - Syndrome Binge

I look forward to this! :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:53:59
So stoked for this!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:54:23
Ah ha, so those are what you've been teasing the whole time!

Killer ****ing work Binge, this is super exciting stuff!

EDIT: Future Topre Support I hope?
Title: :~$ynth
Post by: Bambino on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:54:38
This is a great idea and will save untold numbers of silicone molds. Can't wait to see more and get my hands on one of these!

Binge, I see that there are mold keys built into the design. Do they help orient the direction that the silicone portion faces to a particular direction, or would you be able to rotate the aluminum portion to all 4 directions?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Dongulator on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:54:54
The only question I have is when are is the $ynth going to be made for modifiers?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:58:25
a few keys were made during the holidays :)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/G5SP7wm.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/mJa83Hx.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vdxNn93.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEzDCV.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/9m5yhMr.png)


Oh awesome! I need to get one now!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:59:03
What I wish for is that nobody tries to make profit off of these caps they make using the Synth but to trade them, that would be really neat to trade with others and see what designs they can come up with.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: DAVYtm on Mon, 11 January 2016, 09:59:30
Ahhh this is SO cool! I am definitely in, I've been wanting to try to make some caps for a while now
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:00:19
What I wish for is that nobody tries to make profit off of these caps they make using the Synth but to trade them, that would be really neat to trade with others and see what designs they can come up with.

Really cool idea! Mainly I want to make custom FN key blanks.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zanduby on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:01:14
So you are saying we will be able to make our own blanks!? That is sooo freaking cool.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:05:30
So you are saying we will be able to make our own blanks!? That is sooo freaking cool.

You can make more than blanks, but people may certainly make very nice blanks with these.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:06:24
This is so cool!!! Binge always doing things to help everyone :d
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: btctopre on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:16:00
G A M E  C H A N G E R
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: harlw on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:21:30
nice!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:22:55
YES. PLEASE.

This is soooo awesome; will definitelly buy at least one as soon as they're available!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:25:12
Extremely interesting news. I can't wait to see how it unfolds!!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bevo on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:26:41
Does this mean that this will make it easier for others to copy designs from other artisans? Double edged sword I guess
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:28:44
Does this mean that this will make it easier for others to copy designs from other artisans? Double edged sword I guess

Well, only if they have the same sculpting skills  :))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:30:04
Oh snap.  It's all coming together now.  :))

I thought the milled bottom mold portion was on hiatus - didn't realize it was still in the works.

I saw one of these caps last week and noted the maker's mark location and thought "huh, that's weird", not realizing the intended application.

/me feels derp, but very excited to see where this is going  :cool:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: JaccoW on Mon, 11 January 2016, 10:42:24
So.. will there be other stems available as well? :D

Looks great people. Might even try to get my hands on this one.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 3K on Mon, 11 January 2016, 11:05:06
And so the Color By Numbers of artisan crafting was invented.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 11:05:08
So.. will there be other stems available as well? :D

Looks great people. Might even try to get my hands on this one.

It's possible to make your own stem inserts.  Right now the cherry mold stem is machinable with low cost.  A crafty, more advanced, caster could make their own alt-stems like topre and alps.

And so the Color By Numbers of artisan crafting was invented.

This solves a very basic and tedious problem with casting keycaps, but it does not solve ALL of the problems casting keycaps.

Does this mean that this will make it easier for others to copy designs from other artisans? Double edged sword I guess

No this is not the case.  Many artisan caps will not fit this piece unless heavily retooled.  The underside of this key is unique, and will therefore be very easy to distinguish vs artisans which are not made using this device.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 3K on Mon, 11 January 2016, 11:22:05
And so the Color By Numbers of artisan crafting was invented.

This solves a very basic and tedious problem with casting keycaps, but it does not solve ALL of the problems casting keycaps.

You're right there. Let's see how this changes the competition in the artisan market!  ;)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: njbair on Mon, 11 January 2016, 11:48:51
And so the Color By Numbers of artisan crafting was invented.

This solves a very basic and tedious problem with casting keycaps, but it does not solve ALL of the problems casting keycaps.

You're right there. Let's see how this changes the competition in the artisan market!  ;)

Most of the keycap makers I know here on GH seem to view each other as colleagues, not competitors.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:30:22
And so the Color By Numbers of artisan crafting was invented.

This solves a very basic and tedious problem with casting keycaps, but it does not solve ALL of the problems casting keycaps.

You're right there. Let's see how this changes the competition in the artisan market!  ;)

Most of the keycap makers I know here on GH seem to view each other as colleagues, not competitors.

A Kollectiv of sorts :p

/me pokes kudos
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: LXXXIX on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:31:34
This is a very nice project Binge. Really pushing the community into something new.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:48:29
Glad to see this finally posted.

Here's hoping 2016 will include even more crazy HWS projects! :))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: LXXXIX on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:50:02
I wonder who will get the prototype key... Hmmmmm
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: cryptokey on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:52:08
Looks like a game-changer.  I foresee a flood of new artisan makers once these become available, especially if they are affordable enough for anyone interested to pick one up. 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Booper on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:53:39
Umm, holy crap! This is so cool! I remember the concept piece from keycon and thought that was such an awesome idea. Hell Yea binge & Co! 😁
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: BlueNalgene on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:57:37
Damn.  I made something similar but different in September of last year.  I really regret not posting about it.  I don't want to seem like I was the copy cat.

http://shpws.me/JQWY (http://shpws.me/JQWY)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 12:59:29
I wonder who will get the prototype key... Hmmmmm

A few of them have been passed around, https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=63501.msg1976013#msg1976013

Umm, holy crap! This is so cool! I remember the concept piece from keycon and thought that was such an awesome idea. Hell Yea binge & Co! 😁

Maybe I'll get to work on our project one of these days xD

Looks like a game-changer.  I foresee a flood of new artisan makers once these become available, especially if they are affordable enough for anyone interested to pick one up. 

It's going to be a lot less expensive than getting a pressure pot, and if someone runs into enough troubles starting out you might even save on wasted silicone.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: OTD on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:03:30
I wonder who will get the prototype key... Hmmmmm

A few of them have been passed around, https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=63501.msg1976013#msg1976013

Umm, holy crap! This is so cool! I remember the concept piece from keycon and thought that was such an awesome idea. Hell Yea binge & Co! 😁

Maybe I'll get to work on our project one of these days xD

Looks like a game-changer.  I foresee a flood of new artisan makers once these become available, especially if they are affordable enough for anyone interested to pick one up. 

It's going to be a lot less expensive than getting a pressure pot, and if someone runs into enough troubles starting out you might even save on wasted silicone.
Well done as always sir binge. It is not a dream anymore that I  will one day own your cap.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:03:34
Very interesting idea, I'd love to give it a try :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: LXXXIX on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:04:13
Shucks I was hoping to snag an original. Either way I'm looking forward to what the future hold.

Maybe now we can see those onis and tengus I told you about. ;P
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:33:51
Umm, holy crap! This is so cool! I remember the concept piece from keycon and thought that was such an awesome idea. Hell Yea binge & Co! 😁

Maybe I'll get to work on our project one of these days xD

That's still a thing? I completely forgot about the HWS Boop collab.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:38:57
Umm, holy crap! This is so cool! I remember the concept piece from keycon and thought that was such an awesome idea. Hell Yea binge & Co! 😁

Maybe I'll get to work on our project one of these days xD

That's still a thing? I completely forgot about the HWS Boop collab.


Honestly it's been my fault the thing has yet to move forward :( Instead we get great things from Booper like the keywok
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: QuickDelat on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:41:30
holy ****!
you just gave me one less reason to not try and make my own caps!
Very curious to see the progress on this and what people will come up with!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: baldgye on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:45:04
This is ****ing cool, I see you all over the place trying to help out people who are getting into making caps but this is kinda going beyond anything else. Awesome work
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:46:44
Want. Very cool!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:49:40
The only question I have is when are is the $ynth going to be made for modifiers?

Probably, they would obviously cost more, so let's see how this goes. :)

Ah ha, so those are what you've been teasing the whole time!

Killer ****ing work Binge, this is super exciting stuff!

EDIT: Future Topre Support I hope?

Maybe not natively, but people could hack their own topre stems out of this.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Dongulator on Mon, 11 January 2016, 13:53:24
The only question I have is when are is the $ynth going to be made for modifiers?

Probably, they would obviously cost more, so let's see how this goes. :)

Yeah, this is really big what you guys are doing.Really Really big, I don't know if a lot of people realize exactly what your providing and what this will lead to in the future.

HWS + Techkeys = Win for community
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ShardZer0 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 14:07:40
Really great that you're doing this! You've really giving a lot to the community with this. Can't wait to see what youi do next!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: baldgye on Mon, 11 January 2016, 14:07:42
lets also hope this knocks the 3d printed **** on the head too! ^-^
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Booper on Mon, 11 January 2016, 14:08:13
Umm, holy crap! This is so cool! I remember the concept piece from keycon and thought that was such an awesome idea. Hell Yea binge & Co! 😁

Maybe I'll get to work on our project one of these days xD

That's still a thing? I completely forgot about the HWS Boop collab.


Honestly it's been my fault the thing has yet to move forward :( Instead we get great things from Booper like the keywok

Of course it's still a thing! It's been in the back of my mind since we talked about it and eventually I'm sure it'll come to fruition. We're all busy around here though!  :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Mon, 11 January 2016, 14:21:58
The only question I have is when are is the $ynth going to be made for modifiers?

Probably, they would obviously cost more, so let's see how this goes. :)

Ah ha, so those are what you've been teasing the whole time!

Killer ****ing work Binge, this is super exciting stuff!

EDIT: Future Topre Support I hope?

Maybe not natively, but people could hack their own topre stems out of this.

Isn't topre stems a little bit wider than MX? I suppose it would work to hack it, but that would also require making the hole bigger!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: calvinhousecat on Mon, 11 January 2016, 14:27:54
Calvinhousecat Keycap Studios est 2016 incoming get ready boys. Binge the genius
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Dongulator on Mon, 11 January 2016, 14:45:12
lets also hope this knocks the 3d printed **** on the head too! ^-^

That would good, but I have a feeling there will always be a market to make keykaps easily.. oh.. oh wait HWS + Techkeys just changed the game..

Also When this get's released I hope there is a video tutorial to coincide with the tool as well as written instructions.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kudos on Mon, 11 January 2016, 15:33:00
And so the Color By Numbers of artisan crafting was invented.

This solves a very basic and tedious problem with casting keycaps, but it does not solve ALL of the problems casting keycaps.

You're right there. Let's see how this changes the competition in the artisan market!  ;)

Most of the keycap makers I know here on GH seem to view each other as colleagues, not competitors.

A Kollectiv of sorts :p

/me pokes kudos

<3 Binge

Stellar announcement for HWS. Excited to see release info!  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 11 January 2016, 15:35:31
I could've really used something like this when I was making glass caps :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ImpendingxDoom on Mon, 11 January 2016, 15:57:27
Ha, good to see this finally coming together. We can always use more people making more things!


Also good to see Legos are the form factor standard :P
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Mon, 11 January 2016, 16:01:30
This is actually flipping cool!

I have slowly started making stuff and this would be perfect o.o
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Mon, 11 January 2016, 16:33:21
Super cool, it'll be exciting to see the new ideas coming from this!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: heedpantsnow on Mon, 11 January 2016, 16:40:30
This is a really great idea.  Makes it a ton more accessible to the average joe.

Is it possible to make a bottom row 1.25x version of this?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 11 January 2016, 16:49:05
Is it possible to make a bottom row 1.25x version of this?

heed just wants blank 1.25x fn caps.  :))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: heedpantsnow on Mon, 11 January 2016, 16:49:53

Is it possible to make a bottom row 1.25x version of this?

heed just wants blank 1.25x fn caps.  :))

I smell a rat
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:31:44
Title: :~$ynth
Post by: Bambino on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:37:22

Good rundown. I like that you made it compatible with Lego mold boxes!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:38:17

I love the lego mold box. Great touch as they are pretty universal!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:39:03

Awesome work Binge! Thanks for the video, made me even more excited to get my hands on one. :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:40:19

I believe you mentioned earlier that this setup would not necessitate a pressure/vacuum setup, correct? (I do understand that technically any mold can be cast without the aid of a pressure pot, but the comment in question seemed to imply that there would be minimal process hangups to overcome even if pressure was not used)  If so, was the example cap in the video cast under pressure or not?  Just curious.  :) 

Great work, Binge, and informative video as always.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:45:36

I believe you mentioned earlier that this setup would not necessitate a pressure/vacuum setup, correct? (I do understand that technically any mold can be cast without the aid of a pressure pot, but the comment in question seemed to imply that there would be minimal process hangups to overcome even if pressure was not used)  If so, was the example cap in the video cast under pressure or not?  Just curious.  :) 

Great work, Binge, and informative video as always.

I can't cast without pressure.  My plastics would foam, but a lot of plastics are great for gravity casting.

So to answer the question...

A) Yes this mold would make a relatively void free casting via standard gravity if you were to account for standard hangups that happens during gravity casting.  The large reservoirs made by the oversized gates/runners/sprues/vents are something that is hard to achieve properly with a flexible mold.  Booper is about the only flexible mold I've seen that has proper sized gates/runners/sprues/vents for gravity casting.

B) No my example key is pressure cast because at this point the plastics I use will not set correctly outside of pressure/vacuum systems.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: DAVYtm on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:48:28

I believe you mentioned earlier that this setup would not necessitate a pressure/vacuum setup, correct? (I do understand that technically any mold can be cast without the aid of a pressure pot, but the comment in question seemed to imply that there would be minimal process hangups to overcome even if pressure was not used)  If so, was the example cap in the video cast under pressure or not?  Just curious.  :) 

Great work, Binge, and informative video as always.

I can't cast without pressure.  My plastics would foam, but a lot of plastics are great for gravity casting.

So to answer the question...

A) Yes this mold would make a relatively void free casting via standard gravity if you were to account for standard hangups that happens during gravity casting.  The large reservoirs made by the oversized gates/runners/sprues/vents are something that is hard to achieve properly with a flexible mold.  Booper is about the only flexible mold I've seen that has proper sized gates/runners/sprues/vents for gravity casting.

B) No my example key is pressure cast because at this point the plastics I use will not set correctly outside of pressure/vacuum systems.

This is super cool man. Will have to get my lego build all ready..
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: demik on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:51:44
That's all fine and dandy but where's the topre keyng :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:51:50

I believe you mentioned earlier that this setup would not necessitate a pressure/vacuum setup, correct? (I do understand that technically any mold can be cast without the aid of a pressure pot, but the comment in question seemed to imply that there would be minimal process hangups to overcome even if pressure was not used)  If so, was the example cap in the video cast under pressure or not?  Just curious.  :) 

Great work, Binge, and informative video as always.

I can't cast without pressure.  My plastics would foam, but a lot of plastics are great for gravity casting.

So to answer the question...

A) Yes this mold would make a relatively void free casting via standard gravity if you were to account for standard hangups that happens during gravity casting.  The large reservoirs made by the oversized gates/runners/sprues/vents are something that is hard to achieve properly with a flexible mold.  Booper is about the only flexible mold I've seen that has proper sized gates/runners/sprues/vents for gravity casting.

B) No my example key is pressure cast because at this point the plastics I use will not set correctly outside of pressure/vacuum systems.

Perfect, thanks Binge.  :thumb:  Unfortunately it is so dependent on the thermoset used (something I overlooked while asking my question, doh!), but your answer covers all the bases well and helps me understand the intent/design.  :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: joey on Mon, 11 January 2016, 17:53:47
Looks so awesome!

edit: note to self:

smooth on 320

innovative polymers 3070/3071
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 January 2016, 18:04:18
That's all fine and dandy but where's the topre keyng :(

Soon^tm
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: digi on Mon, 11 January 2016, 18:09:50
That is really cool Binge, what a great tool. :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: demik on Mon, 11 January 2016, 18:15:35
That's all fine and dandy but where's the topre keyng :(

Soon^tm

O.O
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 11 January 2016, 20:40:37
What type of aluminum is this?

Would this theoretically be able to be used with cast metal such as tin or zinc if the correct type of silicone is used?

One of my classes last semester was Synthesis and Processing of Materials and a large chunk dealt with casting of plastics and metals.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 11 January 2016, 21:45:24
Oh boy! Can't wait to see what more people churn out.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 11 January 2016, 22:06:28
That's all fine and dandy but where's the topre keyng :(

Soon^tm


............plz has my soul.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SploogeFactory on Tue, 12 January 2016, 01:31:11
This is huge, Binge flipping the keycap game on it's head!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: QuickDelat on Tue, 12 January 2016, 02:04:59
thanks for the small video Binge! it's really nice to see how it should be used. Now I just need to find out where to get silicon and resin...
(and get some of my old lego from my parents place :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 12 January 2016, 03:01:26
This looks like something even Rowdy could almost use!

Good job guys :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Tue, 12 January 2016, 12:24:51
That looks so easy!  I think I have something to go on my birthday list for a change, hopefully it'll be available by mid April?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mrgoldenzombie on Tue, 12 January 2016, 17:46:21
Are you planning to mass produce this or make some here and their?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Dernubenfrieken on Tue, 12 January 2016, 18:08:39
Are you planning to mass produce this or make some here and their?
I'm assuming its "mass" produced since the whole point of the project is to get the mold in new people's hands, and is a collaboration with a reputable web shop.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 12 January 2016, 18:21:03
Are you planning to mass produce this or make some here and their?

This is intended to be made to demand and if that demand is massive expect mass production.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mrgoldenzombie on Tue, 12 January 2016, 18:47:09
Are you planning to mass produce this or make some here and their?

This is intended to be made to demand and if that demand is massive expect mass production.
Well ****...Sign me up!!! I'll be following this thread for more updates :3
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: thaddeus on Tue, 12 January 2016, 19:05:42
Awesome stuff, Binge, et. al.

Giving us one hell of a fishing pole.
Title: :~$ynth
Post by: Dodgy on Tue, 12 January 2016, 19:38:49
Very very cool stuff. Can't wait to get my hands on this
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Tue, 12 January 2016, 20:09:06
Are you planning to mass produce this or make some here and their?

This is intended to be made to demand and if that demand is massive expect mass production.

After that video, one can only assume demand will be massive. I was interested before, but now I know this is a must buy. I had been talking with a buddy about wanting to make blanks for myself to match my stuff, and that looks like a reality now.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Photekq on Tue, 12 January 2016, 21:02:58
Big stuff from a big boy. So big.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 3K on Wed, 13 January 2016, 09:44:54
Big stuff from a big boy. So big.
For you.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: terminallytrill on Thu, 14 January 2016, 19:23:56
Wow, this is amazing. I really want this.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: njbair on Thu, 14 January 2016, 20:06:43
Can you make a tool to help me win a Keythulhu during the next sale?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Pdub on Thu, 14 January 2016, 20:46:20
Very interesting!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Pdub on Thu, 14 January 2016, 20:46:49

Can you make a tool to help me win a Keythulhu during the next sale?
Yes. Can we have one of those tools?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: retrochick on Thu, 14 January 2016, 21:11:40
Oh wow oh wow! I can't wait to use this!!!!!! HWS killing it already in 2016!!!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 15 January 2016, 13:10:30
< START.Update3 >

Apply directly to $ynth!  The commercial is terrible but this product is amazing.

(http://i.imgur.com/OMcwIhL.jpg)

In earlier posts I mentioned that I would be sculpting my new HWS keycap.  In the picture above I'm laying some foundation work which will be more obvious in the future, but for now just know that sculpting directly onto the $ynth is EZ-PZ.  Brush on a very light coating of olive/vegetable oil if you are using epoxy, but something like Sculpy would not require any sort of release agent to protect the teflon coating of the mold part.

< END.Update3 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: DaveW on Fri, 15 January 2016, 13:30:25
< START.Update3 >

Apply directly to $ynth!  The commercial is terrible but this product is amazing.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/OMcwIhL.jpg)


In earlier posts I mentioned that I would be sculpting my new HWS keycap.  In the picture above I'm laying some foundation work which will be more obvious in the future, but for now just know that sculpting directly onto the $ynth is EZ-PZ.  Brush on a very light coating of olive/vegetable oil if you are using epoxy, but something like Sculpy would not require any sort of release agent to protect the teflon coating of the mold part.

< END.Update3 >

(https://i.imgur.com/IaLG69Wh.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Fri, 15 January 2016, 14:21:59
(http://i.imgur.com/wAftG21.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zambumon on Sat, 16 January 2016, 08:38:36
No previous experience with sculpting a keycap, but this could help a lot of people to create their own artisans easily!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 16 January 2016, 13:54:37
< START.Update 4 >

A strong foundation is the key to a successful project.

I hope these pictures capture enough of what is happening to better explain myself because at times like this when I am most focused on the project my words are at best messy.  Below each picture the text will explain my intentions and observations.

(http://i.imgur.com/0u3IyHA.jpg)

The epoxy I have used has set and was easily removed from the mold without damage to the :~$ynth.  A few choice dimensions of the mold were captured in the epoxy most importantly the perimeter limit and gates.  The perimeter of the platform built into the :~$ynth is measured to best represent the dimensions of 1x keycaps.  So long as no detail of the sculpted keycap escapes this perimeter it will not have friction problems with keyboard cases and surrounding keycaps.  The gates are important for details later to come in my demonstration, but remember that it is very important that they are captured by the epoxy.

(http://i.imgur.com/rpsdNvE.jpg)

Please be aware that this part is not finished.  At some point I will have to add extra epoxy to it.  Two factors have made that difficult.  The first factor is that epoxy, if left alone, will dry with an almost glassy finish, and the second is the residual oil left on the epoxy part.  I have already washed the part with soap and water, but we need to use an old fashioned clay working technique to truly have a finished foundation piece.

(http://i.imgur.com/r63G13n.jpg)

After lightly applying some coarse sandpaper (250 grit) the surface of the part will better accept new epoxy applied to its surface.  Do not worry about how this looks because additional finishing work will be done later.  This is meant to be a foundation piece in the project and does not need to be pretty as much as it needs to capture the perimeter and gates of the mold.

(http://i.imgur.com/WsuGRCz.jpg)

Before continuing I apply a new layer of oil to the mold as it was removed by the first application of epoxy to the mold.  Protecting the :~$ynth is important to its longevity in this project.  Always remember release agent with your good tools.

< END.Update 4 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Sat, 16 January 2016, 13:55:36
< START.Update 4 >

A strong foundation is the key to a successful project.

I hope these pictures capture enough of what is happening to better explain myself because at times like this when I am most focused on the project my words are at best messy.  Below each picture the text will explain my intentions and observations.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0u3IyHA.jpg)


The epoxy I have used has set and was easily removed from the mold without damage to the :~$ynth.  A few choice dimensions of the mold were captured in the epoxy most importantly the perimeter limit and gates.  The perimeter of the platform built into the :~$ynth is measured to best represent the dimensions of 1x keycaps.  So long as no detail of the sculpted keycap escapes this perimeter it will not have friction problems with keyboard cases and surrounding keycaps.  The gates are important for details later to come in my demonstration, but remember that it is very important that they are captured by the epoxy.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/rpsdNvE.jpg)


Please be aware that this part is not finished.  At some point I will have to add extra epoxy to it.  Two factors have made that difficult.  The first factor is that epoxy, if left alone, will dry with an almost glassy finish, and the second is the residual oil left on the epoxy part.  I have already washed the part with soap and water, but we need to use an old fashioned clay working technique to truly have a finished foundation piece.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/r63G13n.jpg)


After lightly applying some coarse sandpaper (250 grit) the surface of the part will better accept new epoxy applied to its surface.  Do not worry about how this looks because additional finishing work will be done later.  This is meant to be a foundation piece in the project and does not need to be pretty as much as it needs to capture the perimeter and gates of the mold.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/WsuGRCz.jpg)


Before continuing I apply a new layer of oil to the mold as it was removed by the first application of epoxy to the mold.  Protecting the :~$ynth is important to its longevity in this project.  Always remember release agent with your good tools.

< END.Update 4 >

Looks good, nice to see the progress.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sat, 16 January 2016, 13:59:30
< START.Update 4 >

A strong foundation is the key to a successful project.

I hope these pictures capture enough of what is happening to better explain myself because at times like this when I am most focused on the project my words are at best messy.  Below each picture the text will explain my intentions and observations.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0u3IyHA.jpg)


The epoxy I have used has set and was easily removed from the mold without damage to the :~$ynth.  A few choice dimensions of the mold were captured in the epoxy most importantly the perimeter limit and gates.  The perimeter of the platform built into the :~$ynth is measured to best represent the dimensions of 1x keycaps.  So long as no detail of the sculpted keycap escapes this perimeter it will not have friction problems with keyboard cases and surrounding keycaps.  The gates are important for details later to come in my demonstration, but remember that it is very important that they are captured by the epoxy.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/rpsdNvE.jpg)


Please be aware that this part is not finished.  At some point I will have to add extra epoxy to it.  Two factors have made that difficult.  The first factor is that epoxy, if left alone, will dry with an almost glassy finish, and the second is the residual oil left on the epoxy part.  I have already washed the part with soap and water, but we need to use an old fashioned clay working technique to truly have a finished foundation piece.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/r63G13n.jpg)


After lightly applying some coarse sandpaper (250 grit) the surface of the part will better accept new epoxy applied to its surface.  Do not worry about how this looks because additional finishing work will be done later.  This is meant to be a foundation piece in the project and does not need to be pretty as much as it needs to capture the perimeter and gates of the mold.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/WsuGRCz.jpg)


Before continuing I apply a new layer of oil to the mold as it was removed by the first application of epoxy to the mold.  Protecting the :~$ynth is important to its longevity in this project.  Always remember release agent with your good tools.

< END.Update 4 >

More progress! Loving it!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Sat, 16 January 2016, 14:40:22
Love seeing the process of using the :~$ynth for custom caps. I'll probably use it for blanks only, but maybe I'll try to get creative at some point in time.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sat, 16 January 2016, 14:44:12
Love seeing the process of using the :~$ynth for custom caps. I'll probably use it for blanks only, but maybe I'll try to get creative at some point in time.

Yeah I want to do custom color blanks, I would love Topre support. I'm interested in making some custom scoops without bars too. :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Sat, 16 January 2016, 14:46:04
Love seeing the process of using the :~$ynth for custom caps. I'll probably use it for blanks only, but maybe I'll try to get creative at some point in time.

Yeah I want to do custom color blanks, I would love Topre support. I'm interested in making some custom scoops without bars too. :)

I wish it had Topre support as well. Hopefully at some point down the road it can be added.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 16 January 2016, 15:10:22
We haven't made topre keys with it yet, but that doesn't mean it can't be done.  Don't forget that MX-topre sliders are going to be more available in the future.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sat, 16 January 2016, 15:11:29
We haven't made topre keys with it yet, but that doesn't mean it can't be done.  Don't forget that MX-topre sliders are going to be more available in the future.

Then not all hope is lost. :P
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 16 January 2016, 16:10:01
Let's play spot the ancestry...

(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/e15/11256286_1668985226663234_542791517_n.jpg)

Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/2wKM09OLKm/)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zambumon on Sat, 16 January 2016, 16:26:22
Now I definitely want a ~$ynth, where do I sign up?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Sat, 16 January 2016, 16:26:46
Let's play spot the ancestry...

Show Image
(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/e15/11256286_1668985226663234_542791517_n.jpg)


Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/2wKM09OLKm/)
Oh my goodness spacebear and Hoot oh my goodness handee cap and also that gentleman cap. Also the synth evolved so much!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 16 January 2016, 17:00:08
Let's play spot the ancestry...

Show Image
(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/e15/11256286_1668985226663234_542791517_n.jpg)


Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/2wKM09OLKm/)
Oh my goodness spacebear and Hoot oh my goodness handee cap and also that gentleman cap. Also the synth evolved so much!

I think you're missing Waldo. hue.

Anyway

< START.Update5 >

A few people have raised concerns about the utility of this system.  I'd like to assure you that we're doing our best to make it work with a number of different stems.

(http://i.imgur.com/8fNiUBq.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/5dR1ynz.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/iZjxCDu.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/tPWX9WN.jpg)

Looking forward to sharing more with you all.

< END.Update 5 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Sat, 16 January 2016, 17:02:14
What do you mean? Where's Waldo?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 16 January 2016, 17:05:54
What do you mean? Where's Waldo?

I thought it was a bit more obvious, my bad.

(http://i.imgur.com/LmKxSH3.png?1)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Sat, 16 January 2016, 17:07:01
Let's play spot the ancestry...

Show Image
(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/e15/11256286_1668985226663234_542791517_n.jpg)


Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/2wKM09OLKm/)
Oh my goodness spacebear and Hoot oh my goodness handee cap and also that gentleman cap. Also the synth evolved so much!

I think you're missing Waldo. hue.

Anyway

< START.Update5 >

A few people have raised concerns about the utility of this system.  I'd like to assure you that we're doing our best to make it work with a number of different stems.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8fNiUBq.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5dR1ynz.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/iZjxCDu.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/tPWX9WN.jpg)


Looking forward to sharing more with you all.

< END.Update 5 >

Ooh, this is some awesome news! :) Looking forward to more updates!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Sat, 16 January 2016, 17:30:08
What do you mean? Where's Waldo?

I thought it was a bit more obvious, my bad.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/LmKxSH3.png?1)

Oh I did not see that at all! I'm really bad at where's Waldo and word searches.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jerue on Sat, 16 January 2016, 18:05:42
Let's play spot the ancestry...

Show Image
(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/e15/11256286_1668985226663234_542791517_n.jpg)


Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/2wKM09OLKm/)

mfw hoot mold

(https://media.giphy.com/media/L95W4wv8nnb9K/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Sat, 16 January 2016, 23:29:25
Let's play spot the ancestry...

Show Image
(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/e15/11256286_1668985226663234_542791517_n.jpg)


Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/2wKM09OLKm/)


muthafukin space bear and hoot... ermahgawd gimmeeeeeee
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Sun, 17 January 2016, 13:05:45
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE


Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sun, 17 January 2016, 13:09:17
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

That is an old picture, just showing how far back the :~$ynth was being worked on.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Sun, 17 January 2016, 13:11:28
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Sun, 17 January 2016, 21:29:04
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

That's the spirit!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 18 January 2016, 11:20:04
that gentleman cap.

I don't know if the individual Esc row cap has a different name, but the four-cap cluster is called WASDson.  :cool:  As such, I've always called the face portion WASDson as well.  I'm not sure if this is correct or not (happily corrected), but the more you know and all that.  :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Mon, 18 January 2016, 11:31:52
that gentleman cap.

I don't know if the individual Esc row cap has a different name, but the four-cap cluster is called WASDson.  :cool:  As such, I've always called the face portion WASDson as well.  I'm not sure if this is correct or not (happily corrected), but the more you know and all that.  :)
Yeah I never knew the name of that cap so thanks. The WASDson is really cool too!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Mon, 18 January 2016, 11:33:29
that gentleman cap.

I don't know if the individual Esc row cap has a different name, but the four-cap cluster is called WASDson.  :cool:  As such, I've always called the face portion WASDson as well.  I'm not sure if this is correct or not (happily corrected), but the more you know and all that.  :)

I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.




Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: WidgiePidge on Mon, 18 January 2016, 11:41:42
that gentleman cap.

I don't know if the individual Esc row cap has a different name, but the four-cap cluster is called WASDson.  :cool:  As such, I've always called the face portion WASDson as well.  I'm not sure if this is correct or not (happily corrected), but the more you know and all that.  :)

I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.




Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 18 January 2016, 11:48:44
that gentleman cap.

I don't know if the individual Esc row cap has a different name, but the four-cap cluster is called WASDson.  :cool:  As such, I've always called the face portion WASDson as well.  I'm not sure if this is correct or not (happily corrected), but the more you know and all that.  :)

I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Lokomotivet on Tue, 19 January 2016, 13:25:11
Holy ****, great job Binge! I might actually try and cast some of my own caps one day with the help of :~$ynth!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Vittra on Tue, 19 January 2016, 13:42:06
I've been reading the information regarding :~$ynth as well as the introductory information regarding Binge's method of creation (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.0), an it's been interesting to get a glimpse of the process of creation of these caps. Thanks for providing this level of interaction with the community Binge, there is a wealth of information here. I'm sure there's a lot more information contained all over the forums, just slowly going through it all over time!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Tue, 19 January 2016, 15:47:17
that gentleman cap.

I don't know if the individual Esc row cap has a different name, but the four-cap cluster is called WASDson.  :cool:  As such, I've always called the face portion WASDson as well.  I'm not sure if this is correct or not (happily corrected), but the more you know and all that.  :)

I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc

This is the first time im seeing this cap... when did it come out?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Tue, 19 January 2016, 15:51:55
I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc

This is the first time im seeing this cap... when did it come out?

That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 19 January 2016, 15:53:23
I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc

This is the first time im seeing this cap... when did it come out?

That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.

mfw I have eras and a historian <3
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Tue, 19 January 2016, 16:08:35
I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc

This is the first time im seeing this cap... when did it come out?

That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.

mfw I have eras and a historian <3

It's proof you really made it!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Tue, 19 January 2016, 17:56:22
I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc

This is the first time im seeing this cap... when did it come out?

That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.


For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Tue, 19 January 2016, 17:58:04

I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc

This is the first time im seeing this cap... when did it come out?

That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.


For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)

For a noob like me thank you for all this. it's cool to see how Binge and Wifu have progressed. Could we call ourselves now in the fourth era with the birth of HWS?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 19 January 2016, 18:01:07
For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)


Would HWS be considered 4th era with the creation of the :~$ynth, launching a new brand, and wifu becoming a permanent contributor?

Yeah that :~$ynth is new.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Tue, 19 January 2016, 18:04:15
For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)


Would HWS be considered 4th era with the creation of the :~$ynth, launching a new brand, and wifu becoming a permanent contributor?

Yeah that :~$ynth is new.



STFU BINGE WE ARE TRYING TO IDOLIZE AND CATALOGUE YOU HERE JESUS HOW CAN WE WORK UNDER THESE CONDITIONS
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Tue, 19 January 2016, 18:16:53
but yes <3 <3 <3
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 19 January 2016, 19:14:58
For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)


Would HWS be considered 4th era with the creation of the :~$ynth, launching a new brand, and wifu becoming a permanent contributor?

Yeah that :~$ynth is new.



STFU BINGE WE ARE TRYING TO IDOLIZE AND CATALOGUE YOU HERE JESUS HOW CAN WE WORK UNDER THESE CONDITIONS

I was out buying icecream for everyone and I come back to shouting ;(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Tue, 19 January 2016, 19:18:44
For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)


Would HWS be considered 4th era with the creation of the :~$ynth, launching a new brand, and wifu becoming a permanent contributor?

Yeah that :~$ynth is new.



STFU BINGE WE ARE TRYING TO IDOLIZE AND CATALOGUE YOU HERE JESUS HOW CAN WE WORK UNDER THESE CONDITIONS

I was out buying icecream for everyone and I come back to shouting ;(

ohhh ice cream... we forgive you Binge. (http://i.imgur.com/GIYeoCR.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Tue, 19 January 2016, 21:57:11
That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.


For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)

Whoooaaaaa, fall 2013 to fall 2015 is all one era?!?  Sorry, but I do not agree.  :P  haha

I haven't given it enough thought to define the various phases of creation in that period, but I think I would recommend a couple more eras in there.  ;)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: UTEster750 on Wed, 20 January 2016, 05:37:28
I've heard of the cluster being called WASDson, but this old sale thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49140.0) (warning, Moose trigger) calls the face cap Earl.

Pic of the WASDson cluster:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1XNYr4Xh.jpg)
Earl of Esc.  He's got more teeth, and thinks quite highly of his own profile.

Thank you two for the correction and confirmation!  :thumb: 

/me will spread the knowledge of Earl of Esc

This is the first time im seeing this cap... when did it come out?

That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.

mfw I have eras and a historian <3

In the process of finding and saving as many photos of HWS caps as possible  :D

That's from what I'd call the Second Era of Binge (fall-winter 2013).  First Era (summer-fall 2013) was hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds, this was sculpted and cast.


For the purposes of preserving the historical record, can we then say that it goes like this:

First Era (summer-fall 2013): hand-sculpted and hand-painted stuff to raise funds
Second Era  (fall-winter 2013): sculpted and cast
Third Era (winter 2013 to now): Creation of slo-fi and caps that are still today being produced

Third era = explosion of innovation, including (1) sculpted bottoms  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1660815#msg1660815) (no off-the-shelf cap "base") with the creation of Skullthulu; (2) forced patinas (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1859524#msg1859524), fluorescents (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1611090#msg1611090) and other effects; (3) Spacebear (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1521495#msg1521495) (self-explanatory)

Whoooaaaaa, fall 2013 to fall 2015 is all one era?!?  Sorry, but I do not agree.  :P  haha

I haven't given it enough thought to define the various phases of creation in that period, but I think I would recommend a couple more eras in there.  ;)

The more eras the better!  :p
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Wed, 20 January 2016, 14:26:04
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

You seem to love them, how many were made?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Wed, 20 January 2016, 15:18:38
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

You seem to love them, how many were made?


Less than 10 I think :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 20 January 2016, 15:29:07
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

You seem to love them, how many were made?

Less than 10 I think :(

I think the only official sale they were released in was the Ocean Sand Sky sale, correct?  And I remember fewer than 10 Spacebears in that sale (~8 or so).  I know he casted some prior to that, but I have no recollection of those making it out to other members.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Wed, 20 January 2016, 15:36:25
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

You seem to love them, how many were made?

Less than 10 I think :(

I think the only official sale they were released in was the Ocean Sand Sky sale, correct?  And I remember fewer than 10 Spacebears in that sale (~8 or so).  I know he casted some prior to that, but I have no recollection of those making it out to other members.

7 in that thread, that also just became my favorite sale - the colors are top notch.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bcredbottle on Wed, 20 January 2016, 15:36:51
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

You seem to love them, how many were made?

Less than 10 I think :(

I think the only official sale they were released in was the Ocean Sand Sky sale, correct?  And I remember fewer than 10 Spacebears in that sale (~8 or so).  I know he casted some prior to that, but I have no recollection of those making it out to other members.

That's my understanding, too. AFAIK these are the only spacebears held outside of Binge's possession:
More
(http://i.imgur.com/1QrssKa.jpg)


And accordingly, o3okevin holds the only  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49189.msg1955948#msg1955948)doubleshot spacebear in existence.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Wed, 20 January 2016, 15:43:25
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

You seem to love them, how many were made?

Less than 10 I think :(

I think the only official sale they were released in was the Ocean Sand Sky sale, correct?  And I remember fewer than 10 Spacebears in that sale (~8 or so).  I know he casted some prior to that, but I have no recollection of those making it out to other members.

That's my understanding, too. AFAIK these are the only spacebears held outside of Binge's possession:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1QrssKa.jpg)


And accordingly, o3okevin holds the only  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49189.msg1955948#msg1955948)doubleshot spacebear in existence.

hnnnnggg dat doubleshot doe
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: UTEster750 on Sat, 23 January 2016, 06:04:35
HOLY ****ING **** PLEASE TELL ME THE SPACE BEAR MOLD IS ALIVE

BINGE TAKE MY MONEY AND MY MAMMARIES PLEASE

You seem to love them, how many were made?

Less than 10 I think :(

I think the only official sale they were released in was the Ocean Sand Sky sale, correct?  And I remember fewer than 10 Spacebears in that sale (~8 or so).  I know he casted some prior to that, but I have no recollection of those making it out to other members.

That's my understanding, too. AFAIK these are the only spacebears held outside of Binge's possession:
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1QrssKa.jpg)


And accordingly, o3okevin holds the only  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49189.msg1955948#msg1955948)doubleshot spacebear in existence.

hnnnnggg dat doubleshot doe

It just looks perfect!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Sat, 23 January 2016, 08:57:59
Don't want to derail this thread too much, but why haven't more spacebears been made? Too difficult to get good results? Cost of production?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 23 January 2016, 10:40:44
Don't want to derail this thread too much, but why haven't more spacebears been made? Too difficult to get good results? Cost of production?

It's ok, the thread won't get derailed.  I'm not replying to spacebear discussion here.  Just a heads up to anyone wondering.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sat, 23 January 2016, 10:42:31
I'm assuming this first synth will only do Esc row profile? Or is there some method to use this to do different profiles?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 23 January 2016, 13:27:01
I'm assuming this first synth will only do Esc row profile? Or is there some method to use this to do different profiles?
The :~$ynth is a positive space representation of the under side of a key which is the composition and dimension of the inner walls and stem of the cap.  Therefore the :~$ynth does not dictate profile.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Sat, 23 January 2016, 13:49:12
I'm assuming this first synth will only do Esc row profile? Or is there some method to use this to do different profiles?
The :~$ynth is a positive space representation of the under side of a key which is the composition and dimension of the inner walls and stem of the cap.  Therefore the :~$ynth does not dictate profile.

(http://i.imgur.com/WIrUykX.gif)

I have no idea what this means
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bambino on Sat, 23 January 2016, 13:52:02

I'm assuming this first synth will only do Esc row profile? Or is there some method to use this to do different profiles?
The :~$ynth is a positive space representation of the under side of a key which is the composition and dimension of the inner walls and stem of the cap.  Therefore the :~$ynth does not dictate profile.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/WIrUykX.gif)


I have no idea what this means
m

Means the Synth only controls the underside shape of the cap, not the top shape. So you can make any profile on top of the Synth.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 23 January 2016, 13:56:42

I'm assuming this first synth will only do Esc row profile? Or is there some method to use this to do different profiles?
The :~$ynth is a positive space representation of the under side of a key which is the composition and dimension of the inner walls and stem of the cap.  Therefore the :~$ynth does not dictate profile.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/WIrUykX.gif)


I have no idea what this means
m

Means the Synth only controls the underside shape of the cap, not the top shape. So you can make any profile on top of the Synth.
Yes yes!  All of this!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sat, 23 January 2016, 14:01:09
Sorry, let me rephrase. I remember in the first look video you mentioned that the donor or sculpted cap would need to sit flush with the base of the :~$ynth. The part that sticks out from the base looks kind of tall compared to how low some of the shorter profile cherry caps sit. Is it possible to fit one of those low profile caps on and still have it touch the base? How low can it go? :P
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 23 January 2016, 15:36:54
Sorry, let me rephrase. I remember in the first look video you mentioned that the donor or sculpted cap would need to sit flush with the base of the :~$ynth. The part that sticks out from the base looks kind of tall compared to how low some of the shorter profile cherry caps sit. Is it possible to fit one of those low profile caps on and still have it touch the base? How low can it go? :P

Checking the measurements now.  Shouldn't be a problem to cast the lowest profile keys on this tool.

::EDIT:: It can work, just barely.  I really would recommend using a different profile such as DCS or OEM if you were to use the tool as it is now.  The top of the key would be brutally thin on cherry FN profile.  If this does well enough I might be able to work on a revision.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Sat, 23 January 2016, 15:58:41
Sorry, let me rephrase. I remember in the first look video you mentioned that the donor or sculpted cap would need to sit flush with the base of the :~$ynth. The part that sticks out from the base looks kind of tall compared to how low some of the shorter profile cherry caps sit. Is it possible to fit one of those low profile caps on and still have it touch the base? How low can it go? :P

Checking the measurements now.  Shouldn't be a problem to cast the lowest profile keys on this tool.

Very nice; it would be nice to be able to use it for DSA caps! :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 23 January 2016, 18:41:00
Sorry, let me rephrase. I remember in the first look video you mentioned that the donor or sculpted cap would need to sit flush with the base of the :~$ynth. The part that sticks out from the base looks kind of tall compared to how low some of the shorter profile cherry caps sit. Is it possible to fit one of those low profile caps on and still have it touch the base? How low can it go?

Checking the measurements now.  Shouldn't be a problem to cast the lowest profile keys on this tool.

Very nice; it would be nice to be able to use it for DSA caps! :)
It is made for cylindrical keys not short spherical.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 24 January 2016, 12:27:41
< START.Update 6 >

It's been a bit since I had commented on this project and my own progress.  We started working on the Polar Ice/Glacier/whateverthemonkey combo of ultramarine, off-white, trans sapphire-sea blue and I just haven't spent the time needed on continuing my first HWS cap made with the :~$ynth.

Short update, but maybe a few people will piece together what's happening as it progresses.

(http://i.imgur.com/GE7YLqQ.jpg)

I used my slow set sculpting epoxy and oil as the release agent from the :~$ynth.

< END.Update 6>
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sun, 24 January 2016, 12:32:15
I like where this is going.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: tigersharkdude on Sun, 24 January 2016, 12:32:51
Let's play spot the ancestry...

Show Image
(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram7.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/e15/11256286_1668985226663234_542791517_n.jpg)


Source: Keycon 2015 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/2wKM09OLKm/)

Hoots, HandE caps and SpaceBear.

2016 is looking to be the year of Binge
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bambino on Sun, 24 January 2016, 12:34:43

< START.Update 6 >

It's been a bit since I had commented on this project and my own progress.  We started working on the Polar Ice/Glacier/whateverthemonkey combo of ultramarine, off-white, trans sapphire-sea blue and I just haven't spent the time needed on continuing my first HWS cap made with the :~$ynth.

Short update, but maybe a few people will piece together what's happening as it progresses.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GE7YLqQ.jpg)


I used my slow set sculpting epoxy and oil as the release agent from the :~$ynth.

< END.Update 6>

I spy a mouth in progress.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 24 January 2016, 12:44:24

< START.Update 6 >

It's been a bit since I had commented on this project and my own progress.  We started working on the Polar Ice/Glacier/whateverthemonkey combo of ultramarine, off-white, trans sapphire-sea blue and I just haven't spent the time needed on continuing my first HWS cap made with the :~$ynth.

Short update, but maybe a few people will piece together what's happening as it progresses.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GE7YLqQ.jpg)


I used my slow set sculpting epoxy and oil as the release agent from the :~$ynth.

< END.Update 6>

I spy a mouth in progress.

Does it look hungry?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bambino on Sun, 24 January 2016, 12:47:41


< START.Update 6 >

It's been a bit since I had commented on this project and my own progress.  We started working on the Polar Ice/Glacier/whateverthemonkey combo of ultramarine, off-white, trans sapphire-sea blue and I just haven't spent the time needed on continuing my first HWS cap made with the :~$ynth.

Short update, but maybe a few people will piece together what's happening as it progresses.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GE7YLqQ.jpg)


I used my slow set sculpting epoxy and oil as the release agent from the :~$ynth.

< END.Update 6>

I spy a mouth in progress.

Does it look hungry?

Yep, seems your concept is WORKing out.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SploogeFactory on Sun, 24 January 2016, 20:51:28
< START.Update 6 >

It's been a bit since I had commented on this project and my own progress.  We started working on the Polar Ice/Glacier/whateverthemonkey combo of ultramarine, off-white, trans sapphire-sea blue and I just haven't spent the time needed on continuing my first HWS cap made with the :~$ynth.

Short update, but maybe a few people will piece together what's happening as it progresses.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GE7YLqQ.jpg)


I used my slow set sculpting epoxy and oil as the release agent from the :~$ynth.

< END.Update 6>

That sculpt seems a cut above of your older stuff man
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Sun, 24 January 2016, 21:54:08
< START.Update 6 >

It's been a bit since I had commented on this project and my own progress.  We started working on the Polar Ice/Glacier/whateverthemonkey combo of ultramarine, off-white, trans sapphire-sea blue and I just haven't spent the time needed on continuing my first HWS cap made with the :~$ynth.

Short update, but maybe a few people will piece together what's happening as it progresses.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GE7YLqQ.jpg)


I used my slow set sculpting epoxy and oil as the release agent from the :~$ynth.

< END.Update 6>

I get Binding Of Isaac vibes from the lower jaw, super cool   :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 24 January 2016, 23:36:26
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)

For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Photekq on Sun, 24 January 2016, 23:38:52
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >
Duuuuude..

---

I've only been checking your update posts and not every post in the thread. Any indication on when the :~$ynth might be available? ;D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Sun, 24 January 2016, 23:39:08
Really cool so far.  :thumb: Looking forward to the finished product. Also looking forward to more details on the :~$ynth as well.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 25 January 2016, 00:25:28
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Wait is this the 3-D cap version of the skull you had sold during the Stickets sale??????????
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: UTEster750 on Mon, 25 January 2016, 00:31:52
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Binge is going all out beast mode on this :~$ynth keycap design!  :eek:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: switchnollie on Mon, 25 January 2016, 00:32:08
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Wait is this the 3-D cap version of the skull you had sold during the Stickets sale??????????

Thinking the same! :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 00:46:35
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Wait is this the 3-D cap version of the skull you had sold during the Stickets sale??????????
Better
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 25 January 2016, 00:50:26
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Wait is this the 3-D cap version of the skull you had sold during the Stickets sale??????????
Better

..... ~dead~
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: UTEster750 on Mon, 25 January 2016, 00:54:30
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Wait is this the 3-D cap version of the skull you had sold during the Stickets sale??????????
Better

..... ~dead~

Hyped!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 25 January 2016, 09:17:46
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Wait is this the 3-D cap version of the skull you had sold during the Stickets sale??????????
Better

..... ~dead~

Hyped!

The hype is palpable.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Mon, 25 January 2016, 09:26:10
< START.Update 7 >

Pictures say 1000 words.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KTjuITc.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cLjZONK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7u50xQH.jpg)


For everything I can't say with these pictures, stay tuned for the next update!

< END.Update 7 >

Wait is this the 3-D cap version of the skull you had sold during the Stickets sale??????????
Better

..... ~dead~

Hyped!

The hype is palpable.

My body is ready...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:07:20
Can anyone take a guess at why there are separate, free moving, pieces?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:08:53
Can anyone take a guess at why there are separate, free moving, pieces?

More customization with mouth pieces? I.E. different tongue, teeth, etc?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:10:30
Can anyone take a guess at why there are separate, free moving, pieces?

My guess is that the caps are modifiable e.g. you could use the jaw piece from one keycap on another keycap.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:15:32
Can anyone take a guess at why there are separate, free moving, pieces?

Hotswappable parts!?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bambino on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:17:17

Can anyone take a guess at why there are separate, free moving, pieces?
Some part of me wistfully dreams that the tongue will be made of rubber, and it flops around any time you hit the keycap.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:20:59
BINGE KINDER EGG SURPRISES.

(http://i.cbc.ca/1.1899590.1380861530!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/hi-kinder-eggs-8col.jpg)

ASSEMBLE YOUR OWN TOY CAP.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:25:04
BINGE KINDER EGG SURPRISES.

Show Image
(http://i.cbc.ca/1.1899590.1380861530!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/hi-kinder-eggs-8col.jpg)


ASSEMBLE YOUR OWN TOY CAP.

Will these be banned in the US as well then?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:50:58
Can anyone take a guess at why there are separate, free moving, pieces?

/me has entered the Modern Era (http://civilization.wikia.com/wiki/Replaceable_Parts_(Civ5))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: tchevass on Mon, 25 January 2016, 10:52:36
Can anyone take a guess at why there are separate, free moving, pieces?

easier to create different keycaps since you can keep the same piece and just change one piece to make a completely new one
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 11:14:43
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 25 January 2016, 11:38:50
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Mix N Match Keycaps
or
SWAPPABLE STEMS!?!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 25 January 2016, 11:53:25
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Is it so you can cast discrete pieces and assemble/cast them into the full cap while retaining clean "shots" between pieces? 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 11:54:00
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Mix N Match Keycaps
or
SWAPPABLE STEMS!?!

Hint:  The nature of the parts helps make the key, but it doesn't give the owner of the key any more capability.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 11:54:25
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Is it so you can cast discrete pieces and assemble/cast them into the full cap while retaining clean "shots" between pieces? 

We have a winner!!!!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 25 January 2016, 11:56:18
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Is it so you can cast discrete pieces and assemble/cast them into the full cap while retaining clean "shots" between pieces? 

We have a winner!!!!

Yeeeeeeeeee  ^-^

/me ponders what he wins 

:P

JKJK, but that is really exciting.  I'm curious to see how the idea is executed.  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: RoastPotatoes on Mon, 25 January 2016, 11:56:47
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Is it so you can cast discrete pieces and assemble/cast them into the full cap while retaining clean "shots" between pieces? 

We have a winner!!!!
Oh wow, that is a good idea.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 25 January 2016, 12:43:54
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Is it so you can cast discrete pieces and assemble/cast them into the full cap while retaining clean "shots" between pieces? 

We have a winner!!!!



Bruhhhhhhhhhh...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 25 January 2016, 12:44:26
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Is it so you can cast discrete pieces and assemble/cast them into the full cap while retaining clean "shots" between pieces? 

We have a winner!!!!

Well ****. Even better than what I thought!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 25 January 2016, 12:46:59
So that's a no to the transforming Optimus Binge Cap?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FrostyToast on Mon, 25 January 2016, 12:51:57
So what you're saying is that you have the ability to make a Binge skull with the cmy colours it deserves?
Ty I'll take one.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 12:54:39
So what you're saying is that you have the ability to make a Binge skull with the cmy colours it deserves?
Ty I'll take one.

I can see the possibilities are just starting to hit :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 25 January 2016, 13:15:16

So what you're saying is that you have the ability to make a Binge skull with the cmy colours it deserves?
Ty I'll take one.

I can see the possibilities are just starting to hit :)

Can I has Mardi Gras and fraternity colors in purple green and gold :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Mon, 25 January 2016, 13:28:03
Lots of great guesses which are so close it burns my soul.  Most of the guesses would be like keys made by Martin of HKP.  I don't want to have anything loose or moving in this key.  Not yet anyway.

Is it so you can cast discrete pieces and assemble/cast them into the full cap while retaining clean "shots" between pieces? 

We have a winner!!!!

First of, I was like... Why? Then I realized how extremely clean the multishots will be! Can't wait to see the finished cap(s). Do you have any plans on how you will fuse the parts together?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 13:30:14

So what you're saying is that you have the ability to make a Binge skull with the cmy colours it deserves?
Ty I'll take one.

I can see the possibilities are just starting to hit :)

Can I has Mardi Gras and fraternity colors in purple green and gold :D

You can do whatever you want with the :~$ynth, but if you're asking me to make you a keycap in those colors... your request is likely going to receive a disappointing result.  I would like to be able to make to-order custom keycaps but that is too time and resource consuming to be viable and more importantly fair to everyone interested in supporting my work.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Mon, 25 January 2016, 13:34:16

So what you're saying is that you have the ability to make a Binge skull with the cmy colours it deserves?
Ty I'll take one.

I can see the possibilities are just starting to hit :)

Can I has Mardi Gras and fraternity colors in purple green and gold :D

You can do whatever you want with the :~$ynth, but if you're asking me to make you a keycap in those colors... your request is likely going to receive a disappointing result.  I would like to be able to make to-order custom keycaps but that is too time and resource consuming to be viable and more importantly fair to everyone interested in supporting my work.

You are right it wasn't really a request more of a joke as the post previous yours had stated the ability of cmy colors :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 16:36:22
< START.Update 8 >

Blehuelelalola-blaahhhhhh

(http://i.imgur.com/mDggnHI.jpg)

< END.Update 8 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Mon, 25 January 2016, 16:42:22
I want to buys one so bad :(

I would make a full keyboard of blanks
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Mon, 25 January 2016, 16:44:01
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 17:03:13
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.

I've been sculpting this for about 2 hours (not including dry time) but planning this out for the better part of a year, why?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Mon, 25 January 2016, 17:06:18
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.

I've been sculpting this for about 2 hours (not including dry time) but planning this out for the better part of a year, why?

Purely curiosity as to what goes into making a cap with that level of detail. Thanks for the insight!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 17:16:42
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.

I've been sculpting this for about 2 hours (not including dry time) but planning this out for the better part of a year, why?

Purely curiosity as to what goes into making a cap with that level of detail. Thanks for the insight!

You're welcome.  The fastest I ever made a keycap sculpture was the Slo-Fi at 10 minutes.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Mon, 25 January 2016, 17:18:53
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.

I've been sculpting this for about 2 hours (not including dry time) but planning this out for the better part of a year, why?

Purely curiosity as to what goes into making a cap with that level of detail. Thanks for the insight!

You're welcome.  The fastest I ever made a keycap sculpture was the Slo-Fi at 10 minutes.

Wow, I can't even decide where I want my Slo-Fi that fast. Also this new keycap is becoming so cool with every added piece!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: whmeltonjr on Mon, 25 January 2016, 17:18:57
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.

I've been sculpting this for about 2 hours (not including dry time) but planning this out for the better part of a year, why?

Purely curiosity as to what goes into making a cap with that level of detail. Thanks for the insight!

You're welcome.  The fastest I ever made a keycap sculpture was the Slo-Fi at 10 minutes.

Seriously? That's amazing. The Slo-Fi has a lot of detail to have been made in 10 minutes. You creative people amaze me. I'm just hoping to make some cool blanks.  :))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 17:21:06
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.

I've been sculpting this for about 2 hours (not including dry time) but planning this out for the better part of a year, why?

Purely curiosity as to what goes into making a cap with that level of detail. Thanks for the insight!

You're welcome.  The fastest I ever made a keycap sculpture was the Slo-Fi at 10 minutes.

Seriously? That's amazing. The Slo-Fi has a lot of detail to have been made in 10 minutes. You creative people amaze me. I'm just hoping to make some cool blanks.  :))

Detail isn't really challenging because the challenge is in the technical execution of any given project.  There are street artists that perfect making certain kinds of art for demonstration purposes and create those pieces in staggering amounts of time.  I'd attribute slo-fi to a period of inspiration and mania.  I can't reproduce half of the details I made on that sculpture if I try again using the same tools and material.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 25 January 2016, 17:55:43
Hey Binge, how much time would you say you've put in so far on that cap? Just in the sculpting process, and not the design phase(s) leading up to it.

I've been sculpting this for about 2 hours (not including dry time) but planning this out for the better part of a year, why?

Purely curiosity as to what goes into making a cap with that level of detail. Thanks for the insight!

You're welcome.  The fastest I ever made a keycap sculpture was the Slo-Fi at 10 minutes.

Holy ****.  Those 10 minutes of your life were more artistically productive than my entire life.  :D

Can we call that Binge's "Savant" Era?  :3
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 25 January 2016, 19:28:02
I kind of like that your fastest sculpture is of the sloth, lol
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 January 2016, 22:10:07
I kind of like that your fastest sculpture is of the sloth, lol
/me watches Fullmetal Alchemist.

(http://pa1.narvii.com/5780/f4b1f6babfab921c78f4d657651e29f92c41b6e7_hq.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Mon, 25 January 2016, 22:40:51
I kind of like that your fastest sculpture is of the sloth, lol

+1 He wouldn't be as chill if he was sculpted slower
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Tue, 26 January 2016, 01:58:55
Would you ever live stream the sculpting process? It'd be interesting to see imo
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nubbinator on Tue, 26 January 2016, 01:59:25
Would you ever live stream the sculpting process? It'd be interesting to see imo

If it's anything like mine, I can guarantee that you'd be bored.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Tue, 26 January 2016, 02:04:59
Would you ever live stream the sculpting process? It'd be interesting to see imo

If it's anything like mine, I can guarantee that you'd be bored.

I've got a good attention span, suppose if there's commentary it can't be that bad. I like seeing the creative process to things like this, they're essentially small pieces of art  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MAR82 on Tue, 26 January 2016, 02:53:24
Would you ever live stream the sculpting process? It'd be interesting to see imo

If it's anything like mine, I can guarantee that you'd be bored.

I've got a good attention span, suppose if there's commentary it can't be that bad. I like seeing the creative process to things like this, they're essentially small pieces of art  :thumb:

So you're thinking it would be like watching Bob Ross paint  ;)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Tue, 26 January 2016, 06:19:25
Would you ever live stream the sculpting process? It'd be interesting to see imo

If it's anything like mine, I can guarantee that you'd be bored.

I've got a good attention span, suppose if there's commentary it can't be that bad. I like seeing the creative process to things like this, they're essentially small pieces of art  :thumb:

So you're thinking it would be like watching Bob Ross paint  ;)

Never thought of that relation; absolutely. I watched a lot of the complete re-run and sometimes watch the mini-marathons.  :p
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Tue, 26 January 2016, 07:37:36
Without diving too far off topic, Binge has actually done sculpt sessions before.  :3  He did one when he sculpted Batfleck (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1013439#msg1013439).  ;D  (or maybe he sculpted Batfleck when he did one, I don't know which prompted the other)

(Attachment Link)

LOL!

(unless my memory is failing me, in which case pls ignore)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Tue, 26 January 2016, 07:40:28
Without diving too far off topic, Binge has actually done sculpt sessions before.  :3  He did one when he sculpted Batfleck (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1013439#msg1013439).  ;D  (or maybe he sculpted Batfleck when he did one, I don't know which prompted the other)

(Attachment Link)

LOL!

(unless my memory is failing me, in which case pls ignore)

That is a hilarious keycap, but I'm going to ignore you just on principle. Your username no longer commands my attention without its all caps.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Tue, 26 January 2016, 07:48:46
Without diving too far off topic, Binge has actually done sculpt sessions before.  :3  He did one when he sculpted Batfleck (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=46284.msg1013439#msg1013439).  ;D  (or maybe he sculpted Batfleck when he did one, I don't know which prompted the other)

(Attachment Link)

LOL!

(unless my memory is failing me, in which case pls ignore)

That is a hilarious keycap, but I'm going to ignore you just on principle. Your username no longer commands my attention without its all caps.

rood  -_-
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 26 January 2016, 09:35:30
< START.Update 8 >

Blehuelelalola-blaahhhhhh

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/mDggnHI.jpg)


< END.Update 8 >

Looking forward to seeing the end product!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 26 January 2016, 23:27:02
< START.Update 9 >

So I broke my jaw a few times today.  It's about 1mm thick in most places and the epoxy isn't exactly up to the abuse I normally dish out on a thick application, apparently neither am I.   :p  Ohhhh frustration and repairs.

While that sits and sets I wanted to illustrate how I've begun to build up the upper jaw/skull of this new design.

(http://i.imgur.com/yIlgVXP.jpg)

Rough surfaces are easier to adhere new layers of epoxy.  This step will save me some trouble of sanding and cleaning epoxy dust off/out of the part.  The part is anchored in the maker's mark hole and rear gate/runner for stability when I'm adding more material to it later.  Hope it all works out!

< END.Update 9 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Tue, 26 January 2016, 23:28:33
Wow binge man of Steel nice recoveries from breaking your jaw.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Wed, 27 January 2016, 01:20:24
< START.Update 9 >

So I broke my jaw a few times today.  It's about 1mm thick in most places and the epoxy isn't exactly up to the abuse I normally dish out on a thick application, apparently neither am I.   :p  Ohhhh frustration and repairs.

While that sits and sets I wanted to illustrate how I've begun to build up the upper jaw/skull of this new design.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yIlgVXP.jpg)


Rough surfaces are easier to adhere new layers of epoxy.  This step will save me some trouble of sanding and cleaning epoxy dust off/out of the part.  The part is anchored in the maker's mark hole and rear gate/runner for stability when I'm adding more material to it later.  Hope it all works out!

< END.Update 9 >

This is by far my favorite of your step by step cap sculpts, seeing the $ynth in use and building the cap for multi shots is awesome.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: UTEster750 on Wed, 27 January 2016, 03:56:57
< START.Update 9 >

So I broke my jaw a few times today.  It's about 1mm thick in most places and the epoxy isn't exactly up to the abuse I normally dish out on a thick application, apparently neither am I.   :p  Ohhhh frustration and repairs.

While that sits and sets I wanted to illustrate how I've begun to build up the upper jaw/skull of this new design.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yIlgVXP.jpg)


Rough surfaces are easier to adhere new layers of epoxy.  This step will save me some trouble of sanding and cleaning epoxy dust off/out of the part.  The part is anchored in the maker's mark hole and rear gate/runner for stability when I'm adding more material to it later.  Hope it all works out!

< END.Update 9 >

This is by far my favorite of your step by step cap sculpts, seeing the $ynth in use and building the cap for multi shots is awesome.

Amazing insight into Binge's process.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Wed, 27 January 2016, 09:58:57
< START.Update 9 >

So I broke my jaw a few times today.  It's about 1mm thick in most places and the epoxy isn't exactly up to the abuse I normally dish out on a thick application, apparently neither am I.   :p  Ohhhh frustration and repairs.

While that sits and sets I wanted to illustrate how I've begun to build up the upper jaw/skull of this new design.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yIlgVXP.jpg)


Rough surfaces are easier to adhere new layers of epoxy.  This step will save me some trouble of sanding and cleaning epoxy dust off/out of the part.  The part is anchored in the maker's mark hole and rear gate/runner for stability when I'm adding more material to it later.  Hope it all works out!

< END.Update 9 >

Really nice to see it being used and what for etc. :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Wed, 27 January 2016, 10:00:22
< START.Update 9 >

So I broke my jaw a few times today.  It's about 1mm thick in most places and the epoxy isn't exactly up to the abuse I normally dish out on a thick application, apparently neither am I.   :p  Ohhhh frustration and repairs.

While that sits and sets I wanted to illustrate how I've begun to build up the upper jaw/skull of this new design.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yIlgVXP.jpg)


Rough surfaces are easier to adhere new layers of epoxy.  This step will save me some trouble of sanding and cleaning epoxy dust off/out of the part.  The part is anchored in the maker's mark hole and rear gate/runner for stability when I'm adding more material to it later.  Hope it all works out!

< END.Update 9 >

I keep thinking these are going to be huge caps, and then I realize you're just zoomed in a lot.

It's really cool to see the progress you make with this.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Wed, 27 January 2016, 10:02:46
Any plans to show this thing off at the Philly meet?  ;D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Pdub on Wed, 27 January 2016, 10:03:27

Any plans to show this thing off at the Philly meet?  ;D
. philly meet!?!?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Wed, 27 January 2016, 10:09:49

Any plans to show this thing off at the Philly meet?  ;D
. philly meet!?!?

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=78753.msg2013847
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 27 January 2016, 10:25:39
Any plans to show this thing off at the Philly meet?  ;D


Where have you been bro?  srsly I feel like every day you're on IRC and I'm right there talking about going to philly for this meetup and making a scene and ****.  Then I'm on here and reddit talking about bringing my dog and **** and showing off the goods.  GEEZE.

Job Description for Binge of Hunger Work Studios:  Official Broken Record
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Wed, 27 January 2016, 10:27:18
Any plans to show this thing off at the Philly meet?  ;D


Where have you been bro?  srsly I feel like every day you're on IRC and I'm right there talking about going to philly for this meetup and making a scene and ****.  Then I'm on here and reddit talking about bringing my dog and **** and showing off the goods.  GEEZE.

Job Description for Binge of Hunger Work Studios:  Official Broken Record

LOL I know you're going to the meet. Just wasn't sure if you planned on bringing the :~$ynth.  :D

*edit* I could just see you being concerned since you're literally using it right now and could be a risk of damaging your work in transit and such. But you've also shown pics of those pieces off of the :~$ynth so it might not be as big of a concern as I think.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: t347 on Wed, 27 January 2016, 15:28:31
< START.Update 9 >

So I broke my jaw a few times today.  It's about 1mm thick in most places and the epoxy isn't exactly up to the abuse I normally dish out on a thick application, apparently neither am I.   :p  Ohhhh frustration and repairs.

While that sits and sets I wanted to illustrate how I've begun to build up the upper jaw/skull of this new design.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yIlgVXP.jpg)


Rough surfaces are easier to adhere new layers of epoxy.  This step will save me some trouble of sanding and cleaning epoxy dust off/out of the part.  The part is anchored in the maker's mark hole and rear gate/runner for stability when I'm adding more material to it later.  Hope it all works out!

< END.Update 9 >

This cap is already looking incredible.  I can't wait to see the finished project!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: crbr on Wed, 10 February 2016, 16:40:58
When will we be able to purchase a $ynth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 10 February 2016, 18:37:14
When will we be able to purchase a $ynth?

Pending announcement from Techkeys.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: crbr on Thu, 11 February 2016, 10:48:34
When will we be able to purchase a $ynth?

Pending announcement from Techkeys.

Oooooooh that sounds close.  I showed my gf the $ynth because she has been interested in sculpting a cap since all my recent purchases.  It will be fun to see what she comes up with, but I know a Llama was on the top of her list of creations lol.  Thanks again for making this for the community :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Thu, 11 February 2016, 10:50:57
When will we be able to purchase a $ynth?

Pending announcement from Techkeys.

Oh boy oh boy oh boy! Can't wait!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Lokomotivet on Thu, 11 February 2016, 11:11:46
When will we be able to purchase a $ynth?

Pending announcement from Techkeys.

Yasss!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Thu, 11 February 2016, 13:24:35
When will we be able to purchase a $ynth?

Pending announcement from Techkeys.

hype ;D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Oxid on Thu, 11 February 2016, 19:01:36
Come to me, you marvellous creation, you; come to meeeee!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:14:06
< START.Update 10 >
(http://i.imgur.com/1VUgULz.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)

OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:15:04
< START.Update 10 >

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)


OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>
This gets better and better with every update. Keep up the good work binge!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:15:54
< START.Update 10 >

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)


OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>

Every time I come to this thread I get hyped! What do you use for sculpting by the way? Sculpey?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:17:31
< START.Update 10 >

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)


OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>

Every time I come to this thread I get hyped! What do you use for sculpting by the way? Sculpey?

epoxy
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:36:54
< START.Update 10 >

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)


OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>

Ooh, It's starting to look more and more like a finished piece! :D Looks completely awesome; can't wait to see the finished product!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:49:44
< START.Update 10 >

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)


OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>

I am loving the teeth! Is that the start of the lower jaw to the right though?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:56:36
< START.Update 10 >

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)


OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>

I am loving the teeth! Is that the start of the lower jaw to the right though?
Lower jaw is already complete, see previous updates
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 12 February 2016, 13:58:05
< START.Update 10 >

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Mo2TRxN.jpg)


OMnomNOMnom.

I have not had real time to sit down and do even small alterations to this piece, but there should be enough here to show the progress.  Building up this sculpture has its challenges, but so far with enough patience and planning everything is moving forward.

< END.Update 10>

I am loving the teeth! Is that the start of the lower jaw to the right though?
Lower jaw is already complete, see previous updates

Haha. Yep I am dumb and forgot.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Fri, 12 February 2016, 17:03:48
hmmm

Question for you Binge.

How would one go about carving or stamping the top of a cap for a mold?

Similar to to Clacks 420 cap.

I have slowly been getting into making my stuff and I really like simple blank caps.

So How could I get a functional mold that would allow me to carve or stamp, lets say, Illuminati symbol on top of the cap.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 12 February 2016, 17:37:40
hmmm

Question for you Binge.

How would one go about carving or stamping the top of a cap for a mold?

Similar to to Clacks 420 cap.

I have slowly been getting into making my stuff and I really like simple blank caps.

So How could I get a functional mold that would allow me to carve or stamp, lets say, Illuminati symbol on top of the cap.

Ask again once you have learned how to make blanks.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Fri, 12 February 2016, 20:14:08
hmmm

Question for you Binge.

How would one go about carving or stamping the top of a cap for a mold?

Similar to to Clacks 420 cap.

I have slowly been getting into making my stuff and I really like simple blank caps.

So How could I get a functional mold that would allow me to carve or stamp, lets say, Illuminati symbol on top of the cap.

Ask again once you have learned how to make blanks.

So I think I know how..

It is just the mold :(

I have used clay to make designs, but they usually look like a 3 year old made them.

So I stuck to blanks and have been mixing resins to get cool mixed colors.

But for the mold process I don't know how I would create a stamp on a cherry cap.

Unless I create a semi hardens cap and see if it accepts the stamp in that from and let it harden. Then make a mold from that cap.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 12 February 2016, 20:18:10
hmmm

Question for you Binge.

How would one go about carving or stamping the top of a cap for a mold?

Similar to to Clacks 420 cap.

I have slowly been getting into making my stuff and I really like simple blank caps.

So How could I get a functional mold that would allow me to carve or stamp, lets say, Illuminati symbol on top of the cap.

Ask again once you have learned how to make blanks.

So I think I know how..

It is just the mold :(

I have used clay to make designs, but they usually look like a 3 year old made them.

So I stuck to blanks and have been mixing resins to get cool mixed colors.

But for the mold process I don't know how I would create a stamp on a cherry cap.

Unless I create a semi hardens cap and see if it accepts the stamp in that from and let it harden. Then make a mold from that cap.

Show us your blanks and the undersides.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zorberema on Sat, 13 February 2016, 06:02:24
Show us your blanks and the undersides.

I've seen you asking several people about the undersides of their caps; what is it specifically that you are looking for?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 13 February 2016, 09:41:07
Show us your blanks and the undersides.

I've seen you asking several people about the undersides of their caps; what is it specifically that you are looking for?
It's part of the artform.  There is a lot of finishing and technique that artisans put into all sides of their keys.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sat, 13 February 2016, 09:56:13
Show us your blanks and the undersides.

I've seen you asking several people about the undersides of their caps; what is it specifically that you are looking for?
It's part of the artform.  There is a lot of finishing and technique that artisans put into all sides of their keys.

I remember seeing that cap you made with the :~$ynth at the meet. The bottom from that looks so good.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Oxid on Sat, 13 February 2016, 13:50:52
Show us your blanks and the undersides.

I've seen you asking several people about the undersides of their caps; what is it specifically that you are looking for?
It's part of the artform.  There is a lot of finishing and technique that artisans put into all sides of their keys.

Pls no one look at my caps undersides!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 20 February 2016, 13:01:06
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Sat, 20 February 2016, 13:10:23
I do love how you're actually taking steps to make the artisan process more accessible to the community! Any release date for these, or just SOON(tm)?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Sat, 20 February 2016, 13:10:43

Cant wait to buy one!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 20 February 2016, 13:13:51
I do love how you're actually taking steps to make the artisan process more accessible to the community! Any release date for these, or just SOON(tm)?
Techkeys.us will be releasing all sale information.  I'm just a creative director of sorts.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Sat, 20 February 2016, 14:19:13
Man this is really cool! I'm excited to see how one of these keys gets made!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:02:42
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)

aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:05:06
Been watching Tech keys intently -.-
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:18:30
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >

Thanks for the update! I love the insight this gives to your process.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: heedpantsnow on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:35:49
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:37:04
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Yep.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: heedpantsnow on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:38:07
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Yep.

Thx.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:52:28
So when using a normal silicone mould, you'd have both a bottom and top part, right? Does using the synth mean that there is no longer any need to cast a bottom of the keycap with silicone?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 21 February 2016, 14:54:28
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Yep.

Thx.
You're welcome.  There's a whole lot to infer just from watching this much of the process but it's important to remember that I'm skipping a lot in favor of remaining true to the purpose of demonstration. There is a real need to showcase the engineering of this tool.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 21 February 2016, 15:02:53
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Yep.

Thx.
You're welcome.  There's a whole lot to infer just from watching this much of the process but it's important to remember that I'm skipping a lot in favor of remaining true to the purpose of demonstration. There is a real need to showcase the engineering of this tool.

The :~Synth is PTFE/Teflon coated correct?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: heedpantsnow on Sun, 21 February 2016, 15:04:47

< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Yep.

Thx.
You're welcome.  There's a whole lot to infer just from watching this much of the process but it's important to remember that I'm skipping a lot in favor of remaining true to the purpose of demonstration. There is a real need to showcase the engineering of this tool.

I'm sorry if my short reply came across as snarky, didn't mean it like that.

I think the video is great at showing some of the process and use of the tool. I don't expect you to show measuring, coloring, vacuum, cure, demold, sprue trimming, etc. the synth would get lost in all of that.

Thanks for these videos.  As you know from my carbon fiber project I just love building stuff so this is right up my alley! :-)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 21 February 2016, 15:16:04
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Yep.

Thx.
You're welcome.  There's a whole lot to infer just from watching this much of the process but it's important to remember that I'm skipping a lot in favor of remaining true to the purpose of demonstration. There is a real need to showcase the engineering of this tool.

The :~Synth is PTFE/Teflon coated correct?
It's supposed to be.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 21 February 2016, 15:24:22
I'm sorry if my short reply came across as snarky, didn't mean it like that.

I think the video is great at showing some of the process and use of the tool. I don't expect you to show measuring, coloring, vacuum, cure, demold, sprue trimming, etc. the synth would get lost in all of that.

Thanks for these videos.  As you know from my carbon fiber project I just love building stuff so this is right up my alley! :-)

Yeah I totally understand your interest and thought nothing of the sort, I just want to remain true to the intended purpose of the video.  I'm not crafty in designing instructionals/preparing/storyboarding so it's just all kind of thrown together, excess information, and all.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 21 February 2016, 15:27:15
< START.Update 11 >


Everything has been moving along rather stellar like with regard to HWS :~$ynth projects.  This video illustrates how the stem insert works and provides keen insight on how to prepare the stem insert for use.

Pics of the resulting part,

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ohv2URW.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SxgkVhP.jpg)


aaand a little animated bit,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCCET-AlWqL/

< ENT.Update 11 >



Cool!  Love the Binge/Wifu banter and the use of the ~$ynth.  So did you use your pressure pot?  Seems like maybe you vac'd out the bubbles before combining the two parts of thermoset?
Yep.

Thx.
You're welcome.  There's a whole lot to infer just from watching this much of the process but it's important to remember that I'm skipping a lot in favor of remaining true to the purpose of demonstration. There is a real need to showcase the engineering of this tool.

The :~Synth is PTFE/Teflon coated correct?
It's supposed to be.

Supposed to be? It looks like it is but I just wanted to clarify.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 21 February 2016, 15:29:52
Supposed to be? It looks like it is but I just wanted to clarify.

Yeah.  Like it's supposed to be PTFE/Teflon coated.  There's only so much I can say with certainty having not been there while it was manufactured.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 21 February 2016, 15:39:17
Supposed to be? It looks like it is but I just wanted to clarify.

Yeah.  Like it's supposed to be PTFE/Teflon coated.  There's only so much I can say with certainty having not been there while it was manufactured.

I get what you're saying. Looking forward to getting my hands on this!

Really loving seeing the process for your cap making and the use of this on the Hunger cap!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Fyodor on Sun, 21 February 2016, 16:35:03
Thank you for your inspiring work!!  :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 22 February 2016, 08:04:58
< START.Update 12 >

Cast the lower jaw in a delicious bone white.

(http://i.imgur.com/WotR6c8.jpg)

< END.Update 12 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: retrochick on Mon, 22 February 2016, 08:16:39
seriously one of the most amazing/exciting threads so far. <3
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Fyodor on Mon, 22 February 2016, 08:21:25
Is there any way to clean the syringes so you can reuse them after? Or the resin forces you to throw them after every use?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: retrochick on Mon, 22 February 2016, 08:26:50
Is there any way to clean the syringes so you can reuse them after? Or the resin forces you to throw them after every use?

You can clean them with solvents but really you want to avoid any type of chemical contaminants so syringes are one-use only.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Mon, 22 February 2016, 08:45:29
< START.Update 12 >

Cast the lower jaw in a delicious bone white.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/WotR6c8.jpg)


< END.Update 12 >

I'm just imagining the possibilities of using this process to do multi-shots on each individual part...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 22 February 2016, 09:22:03
< START.Update 12 >

Cast the lower jaw in a delicious bone white.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/WotR6c8.jpg)


< END.Update 12 >

Looks just like the sticker as of now! This is gonna be awesome! :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 27 February 2016, 10:37:43
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)

< END.Update 13 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Sat, 27 February 2016, 10:40:47
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)


< END.Update 13 >

Damn that looks good, loving all of the updates and keep up the good work  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: heedpantsnow on Sat, 27 February 2016, 10:57:42
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)


< END.Update 13 >

That second pic reminds me of the dude singing in the redone version of Return of the Jedi!  I love the "throat shot"!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Oxid on Sat, 27 February 2016, 11:25:26
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)


< END.Update 13 >

I don't think its possible for me to praise this anymore. I've run out of words. I will say its been absolutely fascinating watch it come to fruiting on slack.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Sat, 27 February 2016, 11:28:28
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)


< END.Update 13 >

wow

just wow
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Sat, 27 February 2016, 12:43:04
Oh my goodness that cap is really pretty!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Sat, 27 February 2016, 13:11:42
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)


< END.Update 13 >

That second pic reminds me of the dude singing in the redone version of Return of the Jedi!  I love the "throat shot"!

I thought of the album cover for the fantastic King Crimson album 'In the Court of the Crimson King'

(http://www.progarchives.com/progressive_rock_discography_covers/191/cover_493961992009.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: crbr on Sat, 27 February 2016, 15:34:38
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)


< END.Update 13 >

I am really excited for the $ynth and the new cap.  That tongue looks so good.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: BaconEggandCheeseBagel on Sat, 27 February 2016, 15:44:53
Amazing
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Sun, 28 February 2016, 08:15:38
I want to hangout in binge dungeon...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Sun, 28 February 2016, 08:40:10
I want to hangout in binge dungeon...
Join us on Slack! You may get some good insight on his work, and see some other fun stuff too.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Vittra on Sun, 28 February 2016, 08:55:08
< START.Update 13 >

I feel like I skipped a great update with the skull/upper-jaw, but it's too late to go back now...

On Wednesday-Thursday I successfully cast the final piece of the skeletal system for Hungrkey, and we were able to use Monster Clay (http://www.monstermakers.com/product/monster-clay-premium-grade-html) (a polymer and wax based material) as the next layer of sculpted detail.  I lovingly call this layer the skin.

I'm very excited to be nearly done with this project.  The hours alone have made it more complicated than any other casting project to date for Bingecap/Hunger Work Studio.  As the artist it's really only important that the final piece is up to some standard of excellence.  Please bear with us a little longer as we turn this skin into a final mold and near the completion of this project.  We are honored to bring these updates to you and showcase what we believe to be the very pinnacle of capability for :~$ynth.  Hopefully that last bit will be proven a temporary truth as many more creative people acquire this wonderful tool.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/sDdnOOK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2UIkgGV.jpg)


< END.Update 13 >

That second pic reminds me of the dude singing in the redone version of Return of the Jedi!  I love the "throat shot"!

I thought of the album cover for the fantastic King Crimson album 'In the Court of the Crimson King'

Show Image
(http://www.progarchives.com/progressive_rock_discography_covers/191/cover_493961992009.jpg)


King Crimson mention. Morning has been made.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: thaddeus on Mon, 29 February 2016, 16:58:58
I want to hangout in binge dungeon...
Join us on Slack! You may get some good insight on his work, and see some other fun stuff too.

What's the Slack channel?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 29 February 2016, 22:22:33
I want to hangout in binge dungeon...
Join us on Slack! You may get some good insight on his work, and see some other fun stuff too.

What's the Slack channel?

Slack thread (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=79375.0). 

Now back to our regularly scheduled program.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 01 March 2016, 08:23:01
< START.Update 14>

Project complete.  I present to you the first HWS Keycap - Hungrkey

Made a test-shot to test integrity of mold for final casting.  Below is a picture of the test shot next to the skeletal parts to Hungrkey on the :~$ynth ready for final casting.

(http://i.imgur.com/loFcOiP.jpg)

After casting with some optically clear resin the final Hungrkey features really comes together.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCaXBYkFWkp/

It's been an absolute pleasure to complete this project after such a long term of planning and the with overwhelming support of my affiliate artists/makers/vendors.

(http://i.imgur.com/hWT3w5g.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wbcc8OG.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/aXsL8yr.jpg)

< END.Update 14 >
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dohbot on Tue, 01 March 2016, 08:24:25
Wow this cap is sick!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Tue, 01 March 2016, 08:25:57
Wow this cap is sick!

+1

The ~$ynth is really going to change up the artisan caps. I can't wait.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: raymogi on Tue, 01 March 2016, 08:29:08
Saw the videos on Instagram. This cap is stunning!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 01 March 2016, 09:10:26
< START.Update 14>

Project complete.  I present to you the first HWS Keycap - Hungrkey

Made a test-shot to test integrity of mold for final casting.  Below is a picture of the test shot next to the skeletal parts to Hungrkey on the :~$ynth ready for final casting.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/loFcOiP.jpg)


After casting with some optically clear resin the final Hungrkey features really comes together.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCaXBYkFWkp/

It's been an absolute pleasure to complete this project after such a long term of planning and the with overwhelming support of my affiliate artists/makers/vendors.

< END.Update 14 >

Absolutely badass cap! I really love it!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Tue, 01 March 2016, 09:15:06
< START.Update 14>

Project complete.  I present to you the first HWS Keycap - Hungrkey

Made a test-shot to test integrity of mold for final casting.  Below is a picture of the test shot next to the skeletal parts to Hungrkey on the :~$ynth ready for final casting.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/loFcOiP.jpg)


After casting with some optically clear resin the final Hungrkey features really comes together.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCaXBYkFWkp/

It's been an absolute pleasure to complete this project after such a long term of planning and the with overwhelming support of my affiliate artists/makers/vendors.

< END.Update 14 >

I am more excited / want this more than clackvent.

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Tue, 01 March 2016, 09:15:22
< START.Update 14>

Project complete.  I present to you the first HWS Keycap - Hungrkey

Made a test-shot to test integrity of mold for final casting.  Below is a picture of the test shot next to the skeletal parts to Hungrkey on the :~$ynth ready for final casting.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/loFcOiP.jpg)


After casting with some optically clear resin the final Hungrkey features really comes together.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCaXBYkFWkp/

It's been an absolute pleasure to complete this project after such a long term of planning and the with overwhelming support of my affiliate artists/makers/vendors.

< END.Update 14 >

Love the blue one :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 02 March 2016, 07:42:57
I need more updates!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Wed, 02 March 2016, 07:45:04
I need more updates!

I think that may the end of updates for a while. His last one said "project complete."
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 02 March 2016, 07:46:42
I need more updates!

I think that may the end of updates for a while. His last one said "project complete."

Well dammit! I want one of dem caps.

You best believe Ill throw down some clacks for one of dem caps.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: retrochick on Wed, 02 March 2016, 08:17:19
truly humbling and inspiring to watch a master at work. Excited for the future!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Wed, 02 March 2016, 10:35:30
:hungr: but real this cap is dope. Fantastic work binge. Truly
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: GreyAmbience on Wed, 02 March 2016, 14:55:04
These are insanely good. 
I would be scared of having them on my board, but amazing none the less.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Fri, 04 March 2016, 12:13:36
That clear Skullthulu looks awesome!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: thefebruaryman on Sat, 05 March 2016, 05:32:09
Not only do I want that cap but I want the kit. Looks like a new expensive hobby is about to start!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 07 March 2016, 12:30:39
Pre Production Vs. Production

Pre Production model had a dark anodized teflon coating.  For Production we opted for clear to show off the beautiful machining.  These cellphone shots do not do it justice.

(http://i.imgur.com/pFLMvfI.jpg)

Left -PreProd Right -Production

(http://i.imgur.com/CuHgSGP.jpg)

The 'resin reservoir' from PreProd was not kept in the final revision.  It simply does not work as well as it would in a flexible mold.

(http://i.imgur.com/msGRyEk.jpg)

Stem inserts are far superior to the PreProd models and should provide better fitment results.

(http://i.imgur.com/CrHRiLj.jpg)

No dimple!

(http://i.imgur.com/BZk4TgR.jpg)

When comparing the two the Production model has much tighter tolerances.  There is far less wobble.

I will be doing two test casts tonight with the production model for testing using molds made with the pre-production synth.  Nothing about the preproduction synth should make a difference in how this works with my existing flexible molds as the dimensions of the key platform are exactly the same.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Mon, 07 March 2016, 12:32:51
Pre Production Vs. Production

Pre Production model had a dark anodized teflon coating.  For Production we opted for clear to show off the beautiful machining.  These cellphone shots do not do it justice.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/pFLMvfI.jpg)


Left -PreProd Right -Production

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/CuHgSGP.jpg)


The 'resin reservoir' from PreProd was not kept in the final revision.  It simply does not work as well as it would in a flexible mold.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/msGRyEk.jpg)


Stem inserts are far superior to the PreProd models and should provide better fitment results.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/CrHRiLj.jpg)


No dimple!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/BZk4TgR.jpg)


When comparing the two the Production model has much tighter tolerances.  There is far less wobble.

I will be doing two test casts tonight with the production model for testing using molds made with the pre-production synth.  Nothing about the preproduction synth should make a difference in how this works with my existing flexible molds as the dimensions of the key platform are exactly the same.

I am so excited for this.

are you doing all of this from a local machinist?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: thefebruaryman on Mon, 07 March 2016, 13:40:28
Do you have pics for a topre stem maker as well? Have you got an eta for this yet? Are you going to do a set of video tutorials for us less initiated?

loving it
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 07 March 2016, 13:46:18
Pre Production Vs. Production

Pre Production model had a dark anodized teflon coating.  For Production we opted for clear to show off the beautiful machining.  These cellphone shots do not do it justice.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/pFLMvfI.jpg)


Left -PreProd Right -Production

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/CuHgSGP.jpg)


The 'resin reservoir' from PreProd was not kept in the final revision.  It simply does not work as well as it would in a flexible mold.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/msGRyEk.jpg)


Stem inserts are far superior to the PreProd models and should provide better fitment results.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/CrHRiLj.jpg)


No dimple!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/BZk4TgR.jpg)


When comparing the two the Production model has much tighter tolerances.  There is far less wobble.

I will be doing two test casts tonight with the production model for testing using molds made with the pre-production synth.  Nothing about the preproduction synth should make a difference in how this works with my existing flexible molds as the dimensions of the key platform are exactly the same.

Looking forward to seeing the test casts!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Tue, 08 March 2016, 18:35:12
Awesome, I dig the clear on the production version.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 09 March 2016, 07:29:16
Tip #82 - Always use mold release
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Wed, 09 March 2016, 08:07:32
Tip #82 - Always use mold release
If one doesn't use it, what happens? Your mold gets stuck on the synth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 09 March 2016, 08:29:47
Tip #82 - Always use mold release
If one doesn't use it, what happens? Your mold gets stuck on the synth?

The stem insert will not come out.  I'm going to have to melt the key off using heat/chemicals.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Wed, 09 March 2016, 08:33:06
Tip #82 - Always use mold release
If one doesn't use it, what happens? Your mold gets stuck on the synth?

The stem insert will not come out.  I'm going to have to melt the key off using heat/chemicals.
Oh wow, so that's something that can potentially damage your equipment in addition to ruining the mold 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 09 March 2016, 08:35:24
Tip #82 - Always use mold release
If one doesn't use it, what happens? Your mold gets stuck on the synth?

The stem insert will not come out.  I'm going to have to melt the key off using heat/chemicals.
Oh wow, so that's something that can potentially damage your equipment in addition to ruining the mold 

Silicone molds aren't such an issue.  That came off easily.

The problem is that metal is rigid, and if you form a strong enough bond these plastics are durable as hell.  They'll just become fused together via friction.

The amount of force I'd have to exert on the metal mold pieces to separate them would easily be enough to damage them both as well.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FLFisherman on Wed, 09 March 2016, 08:37:15
Tip #82 - Always use mold release
If one doesn't use it, what happens? Your mold gets stuck on the synth?

The stem insert will not come out.  I'm going to have to melt the key off using heat/chemicals.
Oh wow, so that's something that can potentially damage your equipment in addition to ruining the mold 

Silicone molds aren't such an issue.  That came off easily.

The problem is that metal is rigid, and if you form a strong enough bond these plastics are durable as hell.  They'll just become fused together via friction.

The amount of force I'd have to exert on the metal mold pieces to separate them would easily be enough to damage them both as well.
This seems like a very helpful hint to those just starting out. Maybe a short "dos and don'ts" guide should be sent with the synth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 09 March 2016, 08:39:27
If Instagram foreshadows anything, I'm assuming that he's doing that. Saw a little teaser of a video of some kind there.

Also, I wonder if I could use this to make just the tops for caps to fit onto a two piece BS cap kinda like how Clack's BMX or how some of HipsterPunk's BS caps worked.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 09 March 2016, 09:25:30
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 09 March 2016, 09:26:53
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

=(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zanduby on Wed, 09 March 2016, 09:57:00
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

better delayed release than ****ty product.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Wed, 09 March 2016, 10:02:23
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

better delayed release than ****ty product.

Agreed! Thanks for the heads up, at least we know what's going on  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: heedpantsnow on Wed, 09 March 2016, 10:39:32
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

Oh no!  Can I still have one if I promise to use mold release?  I use the spray stuff from US Composites.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 09 March 2016, 10:47:04
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

Oh no!  Can I still have one if I promise to use mold release?  I use the spray stuff from US Composites.

You should be able to get them after they are recoated with the proper treatment
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Dongulator on Mon, 14 March 2016, 18:31:04
I'm sure it's been discussed, but where are the sale of these going to be held??
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 15 March 2016, 07:03:41
I'm sure it's been discussed, but where are the sale of these going to be held??

..is..

A new opportunity for artisans and resin casting enthusiasts.  After months of collaboration between Techkeys.us and Binge from HungerWorkStudio, crucially assisted by Joey Quinn, and finally engineered by NudeCNC I would like to first showcase by photo the alpha and beta of :~$ynth.

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FoC_Tow on Tue, 15 March 2016, 09:19:39
Awesome project Binge!
Absolutely need some $ynth in my live!

Any estimate if these will be available as a one time deal or permanently?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 15 March 2016, 09:45:22
Awesome project Binge!
Absolutely need some $ynth in my live!

Any estimate if these will be available as a one time deal or permanently?

We were going to have a release this week, but a complication occurred and we are seeking assistance from the manufacturer to reconcile the issue.  No ETC.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FoC_Tow on Tue, 15 March 2016, 12:18:34

Awesome project Binge!
Absolutely need some $ynth in my live!

Any estimate if these will be available as a one time deal or permanently?

We were going to have a release this week, but a complication occurred and we are seeking assistance from the manufacturer to reconcile the issue.  No ETC.

I'm confused, sorry... D=

My question was about the intended buy format.
Is it planned to be on Techkeys permanently or more like a gb format?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 15 March 2016, 13:26:01

Awesome project Binge!
Absolutely need some $ynth in my live!

Any estimate if these will be available as a one time deal or permanently?

We were going to have a release this week, but a complication occurred and we are seeking assistance from the manufacturer to reconcile the issue.  No ETC.

I'm confused, sorry... D=

My question was about the intended buy format.
Is it planned to be on Techkeys permanently or more like a gb format?

I don't want to talk for the other parties involved, but I could ask everyone what we intend to do with this after release.  I have some next steps I want to pursue, but this venture is not entirely my own except by design.

You may not hear a concrete answer until after we've managed a successful sale and had customers to criticise the project.  By our best efforts this is still new ground for a forum which is more suited toward manufacturing peripherals than plastic parts.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Tue, 15 March 2016, 16:14:16
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

Oh no!  Can I still have one if I promise to use mold release?  I use the spray stuff from US Composites.

You should be able to get them after they are recoated with the proper treatment

Would love to buy one as soon as they're available. Is there any kind of ETA for the coating to be completed?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Tue, 15 March 2016, 16:24:27
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

Oh no!  Can I still have one if I promise to use mold release?  I use the spray stuff from US Composites.

You should be able to get them after they are recoated with the proper treatment

Would love to buy one as soon as they're available. Is there any kind of ETA for the coating to be completed?

He said before


We were going to have a release this week, but a complication occurred and we are seeking assistance from the manufacturer to reconcile the issue.  No ETC.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Tue, 15 March 2016, 16:33:50
Synth release will be delayed due to complications with the coating until further notice.

Oh no!  Can I still have one if I promise to use mold release?  I use the spray stuff from US Composites.

You should be able to get them after they are recoated with the proper treatment

Would love to buy one as soon as they're available. Is there any kind of ETA for the coating to be completed?

He said before


We were going to have a release this week, but a complication occurred and we are seeking assistance from the manufacturer to reconcile the issue.  No ETC.

My mistake. I misread the post. Thank you!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Oxid on Fri, 18 March 2016, 13:22:17
Awesome to know you're on top of those problems, Binge. I'm still incredibly excited for this! Can't wait for the incredibly easy MX->Topre conversions with the synth.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: shhbbyisok on Mon, 25 April 2016, 23:43:42
Any more updates on this amazing project, cant wait to get my hand on it!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 April 2016, 23:46:23
Any more updates on this amazing project, cant wait to get my hand on it!

Nope-  keep your eyes peeled here and on instagram/hungerworkstudio for more updates :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Tue, 26 April 2016, 15:47:32
Progress is being made - this is not just sitting...should have some updates in the near future.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrRooks on Tue, 26 April 2016, 15:48:22
Progress is being made - this is not just sitting...should have some updates in the near future.
Awesome!  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Tue, 26 April 2016, 15:55:53
Progress is being made - this is not just sitting...should have some updates in the near future.

Made my day. This has me on the edge of my seat, checking for updates daily. I want one so bad.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Zambumon on Wed, 25 May 2016, 03:32:23
Will be definitely getting one of this for sure  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: TheVengeance on Wed, 01 June 2016, 13:56:02
shiiiiit, another keyboard related item I NEED.

Man I want this so bad it hurts.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bananaplum on Sun, 12 June 2016, 01:43:20
Wow this seems like a must have for aspiring artisan capmakers. Wanttttttttt
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SBJ on Mon, 13 June 2016, 08:10:13
Progress is being made - this is not just sitting...should have some updates in the near future.
\o/ I'm starting to do a happy little dance here.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Mon, 13 June 2016, 22:35:49
http://techkeys.us/collections/accessories/products/synth
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: robotmaxtron on Mon, 13 June 2016, 22:39:07
Wow. Absolutely incredible.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Mon, 13 June 2016, 23:02:15
http://techkeys.us/collections/accessories/products/synth

Bought!

Will there be a Topre stem pin possibly created later?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: piemancoder on Mon, 13 June 2016, 23:05:38
http://techkeys.us/collections/accessories/products/synth

Awesome! Do you know if it will be restocked if you guys become sold out?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Mon, 13 June 2016, 23:25:29
It will sell out and there will be a restock.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: piemancoder on Mon, 13 June 2016, 23:26:51
It will sell out and there will be a restock.

Thank you  :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ntw on Mon, 13 June 2016, 23:41:41
congratulations on the release bunge!! you crossed off another milestone off HWS's list :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Tue, 14 June 2016, 22:24:38
All orders have shipped there are a few units remaining that are now listed. 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: WolfTickets on Wed, 15 June 2016, 05:09:55
What was the price?  It was sold out before I made it to techkeys.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Wed, 15 June 2016, 05:24:15
What was the price?  It was sold out before I made it to techkeys.

$85.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Wed, 15 June 2016, 09:56:39
Can't believe how quickly they sold out!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Blek on Wed, 15 June 2016, 14:49:20
Of course they sold out as soon as my paycheck came in  :'(

Any idea when they will be restocked?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Wed, 15 June 2016, 14:50:42
Estimate 3-4 weeks
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Marshal on Wed, 15 June 2016, 17:11:27
Estimate 3-4 weeks

Decided not to buy since I'm a Topre user. Wanted some other fellow to get a chance to use this product but once there's a Topre stem I'm not hesitating!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kudos on Wed, 15 June 2016, 17:52:53
For anyone interested, you can read our hands-on review here:

https://keykollectiv.com/2016/06/15/keykollectiv-workshop-hands-on-with-ynth/

 :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 15 June 2016, 19:42:22
Estimate 3-4 weeks

Decided not to buy since I'm a Topre user. Wanted some other fellow to get a chance to use this product but once there's a Topre stem I'm not hesitating!

Have you ever done resin casting? You should research SAFE pressure pots prior to wasting mold and resin casting materials.
Use of a SAFE pressure pot in both mold casting and resin casting well net much higher quality results.

I also suggest purchasing a used toaster oven to help with post curing both the mold and resin as it increases the shore hardness of the casted resin piece and the mold.
never use the toaster oven again for any food products.
You will poison yourself.

Also perform all casting in a well ventilated room.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 15 June 2016, 19:43:40
For anyone interested, you can read our hands-on review here:

https://keykollectiv.com/2016/06/15/keykollectiv-workshop-hands-on-with-ynth/

 :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

Great review!

What release agent did you use with the :~$ynth   ?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 15 June 2016, 21:46:12
For anyone interested, you can read our hands-on review here:

https://keykollectiv.com/2016/06/15/keykollectiv-workshop-hands-on-with-ynth/

 :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

Extremely positive review!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 15 June 2016, 22:22:14
I didn't help him either.  Seriously we tried to talk about it but we kept missing each other lol

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Thu, 16 June 2016, 11:19:43
For anyone interested, you can read our hands-on review here:

https://keykollectiv.com/2016/06/15/keykollectiv-workshop-hands-on-with-ynth/

 :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

Great review, thanks for your insight. Looking forward to providing some feedback as well very soon.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MrDaddio on Sat, 18 June 2016, 12:34:41
So when using super sculpty, do you harden the key you have sculpted in the oven? Is that safe for the synth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: WidgiePidge on Sun, 19 June 2016, 07:37:41
So when using super sculpty, do you harden the key you have sculpted in the oven? Is that safe for the synth?

Synth would easily withstand the temperatures required to cure the sculpey polymer clay.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: hossfly on Sun, 19 June 2016, 19:36:49

What release agent did you use with the :~$ynth   ?

I'm interested to know what type of mold release you use also. Have you tried Pol-Ease 2300 by Polytek?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rpeterclark on Fri, 24 June 2016, 17:43:03
So I've been playing with the :~$ynth for a few days and having a lot of fun learning with it. I've never cast anything before so the process was entirely new to me. I read up on some of the maker threads here and went for it!

(https://i.imgur.com/gXDhZJ9.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/HMjJ2Yi.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/mtwsLNX.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/3h9c7xD.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/1wp0ais.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/HBQkH5A.jpg)

I know there are lots of bubbles and flaws in what I have so far, but I'm really amazed how this tool makes this craft so accessible to someone that's never done it before. I'll be trying some new things with it, getting better materials and tools.

Thanks Binge!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Vadurr on Fri, 24 June 2016, 18:02:14
So I've been playing with the :~$ynth for a few days and having a lot of fun learning with it. I've never cast anything before so the process was entirely new to me. I read up on some of the maker threads here and went for it!

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/gXDhZJ9.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HMjJ2Yi.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/mtwsLNX.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3h9c7xD.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/1wp0ais.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HBQkH5A.jpg)


I know there are lots of bubbles and flaws in what I have so far, but I'm really amazed how this tool makes this craft so accessible to someone that's never done it before. I'll be trying some new things with it, getting better materials and tools.

Thanks Binge!

Those caps look awesome!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Reigning Hell on Fri, 24 June 2016, 19:10:26
Wow, I should've snagged this when I saw it on techkeys :( Is thi sthe best place to be updated on when a restock happens?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xtrafrood on Fri, 24 June 2016, 19:38:08
I'm going to lurk hard on any new updates. Jesus this thing is cool :-*
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 24 June 2016, 23:59:15
So I've been playing with the :~$ynth for a few days and having a lot of fun learning with it. I've never cast anything before so the process was entirely new to me. I read up on some of the maker threads here and went for it!

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/gXDhZJ9.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HMjJ2Yi.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/mtwsLNX.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3h9c7xD.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/1wp0ais.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HBQkH5A.jpg)


I know there are lots of bubbles and flaws in what I have so far, but I'm really amazed how this tool makes this craft so accessible to someone that's never done it before. I'll be trying some new things with it, getting better materials and tools.

Thanks Binge!

Very well done :) perfect example of its usage as a template and learning tool.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 25 June 2016, 21:28:04
So I've been playing with the :~$ynth for a few days and having a lot of fun learning with it. I've never cast anything before so the process was entirely new to me. I read up on some of the maker threads here and went for it!

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/gXDhZJ9.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HMjJ2Yi.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/mtwsLNX.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3h9c7xD.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/1wp0ais.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HBQkH5A.jpg)


I know there are lots of bubbles and flaws in what I have so far, but I'm really amazed how this tool makes this craft so accessible to someone that's never done it before. I'll be trying some new things with it, getting better materials and tools.

Thanks Binge!

Very well done :) perfect example of its usage as a template and learning tool.

+1000

If that was a first attempt, they are fantastic!

Was the :~$ynth designed to work well with Lego?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: loud_asian on Sun, 26 June 2016, 00:01:15
So I've been playing with the :~$ynth for a few days and having a lot of fun learning with it. I've never cast anything before so the process was entirely new to me. I read up on some of the maker threads here and went for it!

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/gXDhZJ9.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HMjJ2Yi.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/mtwsLNX.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3h9c7xD.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/1wp0ais.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HBQkH5A.jpg)


I know there are lots of bubbles and flaws in what I have so far, but I'm really amazed how this tool makes this craft so accessible to someone that's never done it before. I'll be trying some new things with it, getting better materials and tools.

Thanks Binge!

Very well done :) perfect example of its usage as a template and learning tool.

+1000

If that was a first attempt, they are fantastic!

Was the :~$ynth designed to work well with Lego?

binge mentioned in a video that it was made with lego in mind, since its what a lot of people who do resin casting use
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Wed, 29 June 2016, 12:54:24
So I've been playing with the :~$ynth for a few days and having a lot of fun learning with it. I've never cast anything before so the process was entirely new to me. I read up on some of the maker threads here and went for it!

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/gXDhZJ9.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HMjJ2Yi.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/mtwsLNX.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3h9c7xD.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/1wp0ais.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HBQkH5A.jpg)


I know there are lots of bubbles and flaws in what I have so far, but I'm really amazed how this tool makes this craft so accessible to someone that's never done it before. I'll be trying some new things with it, getting better materials and tools.

Thanks Binge!

Question about the initial silicone pour...are you putting anything underneath the synth, such as clay? Or just plugging the holes and pouring?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rpeterclark on Wed, 29 June 2016, 16:32:46
So I've been playing with the :~$ynth for a few days and having a lot of fun learning with it. I've never cast anything before so the process was entirely new to me. I read up on some of the maker threads here and went for it!

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/gXDhZJ9.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HMjJ2Yi.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/mtwsLNX.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3h9c7xD.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/1wp0ais.jpg)
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/HBQkH5A.jpg)


I know there are lots of bubbles and flaws in what I have so far, but I'm really amazed how this tool makes this craft so accessible to someone that's never done it before. I'll be trying some new things with it, getting better materials and tools.

Thanks Binge!

Question about the initial silicone pour...are you putting anything underneath the synth, such as clay? Or just plugging the holes and pouring?

Yes, I used a bit of play-doh around the bottom of the box and pressed the Synth onto it to prevent the silicone from flowing beneath it.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: RELLIK on Sun, 03 July 2016, 21:21:28
Much want, though cant see price on tehckeys >_>
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gadzkun on Mon, 04 July 2016, 02:24:57
Much want, though cant see price on tehckeys >_>

its $95 CMIIW

looks like i need it too cant wait to get restocked  :p
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Cofain on Tue, 05 July 2016, 09:51:33
Thats awesome. Can't wait to buy :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Tue, 05 July 2016, 10:01:30
Much want, though cant see price on tehckeys >_>

$85 Shipped
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jediofthecode on Tue, 05 July 2016, 23:58:12
Any idea when these will be back in stock ? Really want to get one of these.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Wed, 06 July 2016, 16:30:10
Probably about 3-4 weeks
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: hippiepete on Thu, 14 July 2016, 09:50:59
Probably about 3-4 weeks

cool beans! cant wait
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: project2501 on Mon, 18 July 2016, 22:19:05
Super interested in a topre version of $ynth.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Fri, 05 August 2016, 15:02:50
(http://i.imgur.com/KWl6pqT.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Moistgun on Fri, 05 August 2016, 15:05:16
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KWl6pqT.jpg)


(http://static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Heavy+breathing_3574f6_5067514.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: romevi on Fri, 05 August 2016, 15:05:47
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KWl6pqT.jpg)


Show Image
(http://static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Heavy+breathing_3574f6_5067514.jpg)


lol
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Sat, 06 August 2016, 07:47:41
Probably about 3-4 weeks
Soooooooooo.... hey.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Sun, 07 August 2016, 09:03:33
Probably about 3-4 weeks
Soooooooooo.... hey.

Just in case there was some question about interest in this glorious, infernal contraption... hi.

Is this sort of like nuclear fusion? Always about 30 years away?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Moistgun on Sun, 07 August 2016, 10:41:45
Probably about 3-4 weeks
Soooooooooo.... hey.

Just in case there was some question about interest in this glorious, infernal contraption... hi.

Is this sort of like nuclear fusion? Always about 30 years away?

I think its more of a SoonTM situation
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Mon, 08 August 2016, 08:34:43
These should have shipped to me last week...will inquire now for an update.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gadzkun on Mon, 08 August 2016, 13:30:16
These should have shipped to me last week...will inquire now for an update.

oh please i really want one of these for my birthday at 23. hope i wont missed it this time. :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Thu, 11 August 2016, 17:13:54
Today I tested my homemade Topre stem in the Synth, and I'm sad to report that the design of the synth won't permit the Topre switch housing. The cap gets close to clicking down, but the inside walls of the key are just a little too thick to let the housing in all the way. I can definitely modify the synth base to allow for the housing to fit, but I had hoped I wouldn't have to.


I know this tool wasn't necessarily designed to produce Topre, but a boy can dream.


[attachimg=1]


Just a heads up to those people that had the same idea that I did.


The synth itself works great for it's intended purpose. It's a wonderful sculpting platform, and a great way for beginners to produce clean MX keys without having to do the work to make a custom underside. I had some initial quality control concerns about my particular synth, but they've been addressed and I don't have anything negative to say about the process.


I can't wait to see future improvements and designs of this tool.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 12 August 2016, 07:44:01
Today I tested my homemade Topre stem in the Synth, and I'm sad to report that the design of the synth won't permit the Topre switch housing. The cap gets close to clicking down, but the inside walls of the key are just a little too thick to let the housing in all the way. I can definitely modify the synth base to allow for the housing to fit, but I had hoped I wouldn't have to.


I know this tool wasn't necessarily designed to produce Topre, but a boy can dream.


(Attachment Link)


Just a heads up to those people that had the same idea that I did.


The synth itself works great for it's intended purpose. It's a wonderful sculpting platform, and a great way for beginners to produce clean MX keys without having to do the work to make a custom underside. I had some initial quality control concerns about my particular synth, but they've been addressed and I don't have anything negative to say about the process.


I can't wait to see future improvements and designs of this tool.

I wonder exactly what part is making contact.  The issue you are describing is not a problem I had with my prototype.  TMX DWI jack was made using a synth.  We can probably reduce thickness or reshape the walls a bit to be more forgiving and less exact if tolerances are breaking this for makers.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Fri, 12 August 2016, 08:01:54
Today I tested my homemade Topre stem in the Synth, and I'm sad to report that the design of the synth won't permit the Topre switch housing. The cap gets close to clicking down, but the inside walls of the key are just a little too thick to let the housing in all the way. I can definitely modify the synth base to allow for the housing to fit, but I had hoped I wouldn't have to.


I know this tool wasn't necessarily designed to produce Topre, but a boy can dream.


(Attachment Link)


Just a heads up to those people that had the same idea that I did.


The synth itself works great for it's intended purpose. It's a wonderful sculpting platform, and a great way for beginners to produce clean MX keys without having to do the work to make a custom underside. I had some initial quality control concerns about my particular synth, but they've been addressed and I don't have anything negative to say about the process.


I can't wait to see future improvements and designs of this tool.

I wonder exactly what part is making contact.  The issue you are describing is not a problem I had with my prototype.  TMX DWI jack was made using a synth.  We can probably reduce thickness or reshape the walls a bit to be more forgiving and less exact if tolerances are breaking this for makers.

I'll do some tests and find out.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Fri, 12 August 2016, 11:41:41
The restock is on its way and should hit early-mid next week.  Subscribe to Techkeys newsletter if you would like to be notified when they are available for sale.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Fri, 12 August 2016, 12:15:51
The restock is on its way and should hit early-mid next week.  Subscribe to Techkeys newsletter if you would like to be notified when they are available for sale.
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/cFLJVYXQIDM/maxresdefault.jpg)
I don't understand the message in the background... but hype.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Thu, 18 August 2016, 01:10:03
Synths are back in stock! I've bought one, let's see how hard this business is. Two questions: when will they ship? What will they be valued at for customs proposes?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gadzkun on Thu, 18 August 2016, 01:47:24
its readyyyy, yeah i got one :p
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Thu, 18 August 2016, 01:50:35
Oh yeah manage to get one this time


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Thu, 18 August 2016, 01:53:23
I wonder how quickly they'll sell out. I'm only awake so early because of exam results, so I'd usually be up in another few hours... Quite lucky I think!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Thu, 18 August 2016, 01:55:30
I've been waiting for this. So been checking their website all the time lol


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Thu, 18 August 2016, 02:11:40
Yep yep.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xtrafrood on Thu, 18 August 2016, 04:33:12
Everybody making them blanks! Get some!

I don't know why, but it took me a few months to mentally grasp how the :~$ynth works :cool:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 18 August 2016, 13:04:45
Picked one up! Very interested in the material side but I am totally lacking in the artistic department. Hopefully my partner is going to get involved and sculpt something up  :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: clappingcactus on Fri, 19 August 2016, 09:38:18
And I picked one up too. Free international shipping is amazing news.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Fri, 19 August 2016, 09:39:50
Mine was shipped today!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: domoaligato on Fri, 19 August 2016, 12:24:01
and purchased...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Mon, 22 August 2016, 13:18:59
Got my synth! Looks great, but the stem pieces does not fit into the base. :( Is this a manufacturing defect or am I missing something critical here?

(http://i.imgur.com/cv2awsq.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/MSxVbO5.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Q032gYo.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Q9pYtYo.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 22 August 2016, 13:47:42
Got my synth! Looks great, but the stem pieces does not fit into the base. :( Is this a manufacturing defect or am I missing something critical here?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/cv2awsq.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/MSxVbO5.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Q032gYo.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Q9pYtYo.jpg)


Manufacturing defect most likely.  The tolerances are very tight.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: margo baggins on Mon, 22 August 2016, 14:04:31
I saw this the other day - hadn't seen it before.

Absolutely awesome cool thing Binge. If I didn't have stupid big untalented hands I would give making caps a bash.

Honestly one of the coolest things I have seen recently. hats off to you sir.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Mon, 22 August 2016, 14:56:34
My stem also doesn't fit into the base at all, even after using considerable force.The tooling marks on my synth are also quite deep and noticeable, which will transfer to my finished keys.

Very disappointed at this second unit, even though it's heavier than the first. Going to run some more tests, but I'm definitely going to seek a replacement or a refund.

(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/53382aa1c028525788d3bde44b54200e.jpg)(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/4239c847ee8eb8a224460c6dc4225d89.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Marshal on Mon, 22 August 2016, 15:02:13
My stem also doesn't fit into the base at all, even after using considerable force.The tooling marks on my synth are also quite deep and noticeable, which will transfer to my finished keys.

Very disappointed at this second unit, even though it's heavier than the first. Going to run some more tests, but I'm definitely going to seek a replacement or a refund.

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/53382aa1c028525788d3bde44b54200e.jpg)
Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/4239c847ee8eb8a224460c6dc4225d89.jpg)


Getting mine today, post any updates for others with issues as well. Hopefully it was an isolated thing
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 22 August 2016, 15:27:23
My stem also doesn't fit into the base at all, even after using considerable force.The tooling marks on my synth are also quite deep and noticeable, which will transfer to my finished keys.

Very disappointed at this second unit, even though it's heavier than the first. Going to run some more tests, but I'm definitely going to seek a replacement or a refund.

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/53382aa1c028525788d3bde44b54200e.jpg)
Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/4239c847ee8eb8a224460c6dc4225d89.jpg)


Same issues here with my new Synth. I've noticed the old stem does fit fine in the new one.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 22 August 2016, 15:49:27
My stem also doesn't fit into the base at all, even after using considerable force.The tooling marks on my synth are also quite deep and noticeable, which will transfer to my finished keys.

Very disappointed at this second unit, even though it's heavier than the first. Going to run some more tests, but I'm definitely going to seek a replacement or a refund.

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/53382aa1c028525788d3bde44b54200e.jpg)
Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/4239c847ee8eb8a224460c6dc4225d89.jpg)


Thank you for the updates guys.  It looks like they botched the stem inserts and for whatever reason not every one looks uniformly polished.  There are machine marks on the OG synth but not as noticeable due to the matt finish, but on that note they also aren't as deep as you've pointed out.  I'm working with Brad to make sure this is handled by the manufacturer.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SoftKeys on Mon, 22 August 2016, 16:06:00
Just got my $ynth in the mail today too, and my stem seems to fit correctly. I guess I got lucky with mine, but at least its not a complete batch issue.

How's mine look?

(http://i.imgur.com/dt8crYc.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/0GUVNC6.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: polentA on Mon, 22 August 2016, 16:21:23
Received my Synth today, and was crossing my fingers, but my stem unfortunately doesn't fit correctly either.  :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: KnivesM on Mon, 22 August 2016, 18:01:28
Seem to have gotten in with the lucky bunch as mine arrived today and the stem fits fine. 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Marshal on Mon, 22 August 2016, 18:20:54
Seem to have gotten in with the lucky bunch as mine arrived today and the stem fits fine.

I'll trade you :^)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 22 August 2016, 19:04:41
(http://i.imgur.com/RoNzxH2.jpg)

5 minutes worth of sanding and we're back in action :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Jpecina on Mon, 22 August 2016, 19:30:11
Damn just ordered mine today and now I'm worried.  Why would the second one be any different than the first?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Mon, 22 August 2016, 20:04:28
Damn just ordered mine today and now I'm worried.  Why would the second one be any different than the first?
To improve the product. First round was the first time anyone really used it (apart from the creators), and they received tones of feedback.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Mon, 22 August 2016, 20:26:57
Got mine today, too. (Clearly a coordinated attack.) Here's the problem:

[attach=1]

A light shot with a fine file and all is well. (If you're following along, *extremely* light! Seriously. I don't know by how much others' are off, but if you're not used to operating at these dimensions, a hundredth of a millimeter is a minuscule amount of metal. That measurement is probably too high because I didn't clean the surfaces.)

Honestly, doing this again, I would have used sand paper. Assuming I had fine grit on hand, which I don't. The fit isn't loose; I think somehow it came out just right. But I think sand paper is probably the best bet. If you don't have calipers to get an idea of how much you're removing, err on the side of not seeming to do anything and check the fit frequently.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: meiosis on Mon, 22 August 2016, 21:30:18
~
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 22 August 2016, 21:52:53
My stem also doesn't fit into the base at all, even after using considerable force.The tooling marks on my synth are also quite deep and noticeable, which will transfer to my finished keys.

Very disappointed at this second unit, even though it's heavier than the first. Going to run some more tests, but I'm definitely going to seek a replacement or a refund.

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/53382aa1c028525788d3bde44b54200e.jpg)
Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160822/4239c847ee8eb8a224460c6dc4225d89.jpg)


Thank you for the updates guys.  It looks like they botched the stem inserts and for whatever reason not every one looks uniformly polished.  There are machine marks on the OG synth but not as noticeable due to the matt finish, but on that note they also aren't as deep as you've pointed out.  I'm working with Brad to make sure this is handled by the manufacturer.

An excellent response from a highly responsible and respected artisan :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jjnist on Mon, 22 August 2016, 22:39:32
Got mine and unfortunately it has the same issue....I could file it down but would rather not ;D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Mon, 22 August 2016, 23:02:29
Same issue here as well. I might try and file it down as well but would rather wait and see whats going on.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Marshal on Mon, 22 August 2016, 23:09:40
Same issue here as well. I might try and file it down as well but would rather wait and see whats going on.

I just got a response email from them. They're sending a replacement stem that should fit which is awesome. I'm just a bit worried about the unpolished look that might show up on the caps.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jjnist on Mon, 22 August 2016, 23:28:47
If anybody with a working stem is able to create a cast in the near future please post results so we can see if any surface irregularities find their ways onto the cast.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Tue, 23 August 2016, 01:22:34
If anybody with a working stem is able to create a cast in the near future please post results so we can see if any surface irregularities find their ways onto the cast.

Hard for me to get a detailed picture here at night but there is definitely a wavy texture that is on the walls of the cast. I'll post detailed photos tomorrow with the DSLR so I can capture better detail. Very noticeable on clear casts, not as noticeable on colored ones. Honestly, it's not terrible. You could probably polish the platform somehow and get rid of the swirling. I think the thing that I miss the most is the coating on the first version. I'm having a lot of issues with my resin sticking to the surface of the new synth, even with liberal mold release. I had been kind of spoiled with the first version, as it was great with cleanup.

I do really like the heavier weight, which keeps my mold from falling over in the pressure pot if I don't stabilize it.

I was also informed that I would be sent a new stem, which is good news. I asked if it was possible to get a smoother platform, and my request was respectfully declined. Understandable, given the current situation. They've done a great job at handling the fallout of the stem issue and presenting a solution to the problem in a very quick and professional manner.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Str1pez on Tue, 23 August 2016, 03:11:29
Appears I also got a unit with a bad stem.  Sent them an email.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jjnist on Tue, 23 August 2016, 03:54:24
If anybody with a working stem is able to create a cast in the near future please post results so we can see if any surface irregularities find their ways onto the cast.

Hard for me to get a detailed picture here at night but there is definitely a wavy texture that is on the walls of the cast. I'll post detailed photos tomorrow with the DSLR so I can capture better detail. Very noticeable on clear casts, not as noticeable on colored ones. Honestly, it's not terrible. You could probably polish the platform somehow and get rid of the swirling. I think the thing that I miss the most is the coating on the first version.
Yah after taking a second look, I can definitely see the texture left behind by the tool paths along the sides. Perhaps I can use a fine sand paper to smooth it out. Too bad about the sticking though...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gaiden on Tue, 23 August 2016, 08:25:40
machine marks textures & stem not going all the way in confirmed..
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Tue, 23 August 2016, 08:29:48
Ah that bums me out about the platform. Maybe it'll be sorted out in v3
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Tue, 23 August 2016, 10:54:56
Update on the Topre/Synth situation:

It appears that v2 of the Synth will also not permit the Topre housing. I had hoped that maybe my first unit was slightly off, and this one would allow it in.

(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160823/01594d03c2c5c6975364c27d08546df0.jpg)

The maker's mark appears to also be in the way for Topre, which could easily be remedied on my side by filling in the cavity. However, I would prefer to see the maker's mark space rethought in future versions, or left out completely. This is just personal preference.

I also have had serious issues with resin sticking to the platform, like Binge in a previous post. Even with a liberal coat of Vaseline and mold release, it proves to be difficult to get the key off the base at times. I would suggest using a q-tip and coating the sprue holes especially well, and be sure to get the key off the platform while it's still a bit soft and has some flexibility to it.

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Tue, 23 August 2016, 13:52:34
One thing that doesn't make sens to me is the finish. The OP states "Teflon coating to ease in mold release", so is there a clear telfon coating on the current batch or not? From the side by sides the current version just look totally unfinished.

Not really looking forward to getting mine knowing that it's going to be harder to use and produce lower quality caps IF the stem fits  :confused: 

I think TechKeys skipped a beat here. At the least they should update their product page to show the latest version not the OG version.

HWS and Binge, all this is aimed at the manufactures and sellers. Hats off to you and how your helping everyone out here by designing these tools!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 23 August 2016, 14:10:29
One thing that doesn't make sens to me is the finish. The OP states "Teflon coating to ease in mold release", so is there a clear telfon coating on the current batch or not? From the side by sides the current version just look totally unfinished.

Not really looking forward to getting mine knowing that it's going to be harder to use and produce lower quality caps IF the stem fits  :confused: 

I think TechKeys skipped a beat here. At the least they should update their product page to show the latest version not the OG version.

HWS and Binge, all this is aimed at the manufactures and sellers. Hats off to you and how your helping everyone out here by designing these tools!

The current revision is not the same version described in OP.  Please refer to techkeys sale page for the most recent specs.

This is supposed to be raw metal electropolished to smooth out imperfections and aid in release.

I agree the manufacturer really missed their mark here, but you must understand that for the first synth we ran into multiple manufacturing issues and I had to have them sent back to be refinished.

The prototype I received of the new batch is fine and dandy.. of course what I received and signed off on as a suitable product is not what people are receiving.  Which of course isn't a reflection of my involvement, but I must point out this is a sub $100 machined precision mold.  It's not cheap to have these made and many places will not even take our orders or make them too expensive to get machine time.

I care for my partners in making this possible, and while I appreciate criticism I abhore the idea that there are so many negative comments made without first asking questions and getting public statements from myself or by Techkeys.  The scope of work done to make the synth possible would not be attainable alone.  The seller and manufacturers, while accountable, are also part of the reason any of us can afford to own it.  Let's do our best to talk about improvements and the possibility of manufacturer remakes and support Techkeys in their efforts to make the manufacturer present us with the right product.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Tue, 23 August 2016, 14:25:09
One thing that doesn't make sens to me is the finish. The OP states "Teflon coating to ease in mold release", so is there a clear telfon coating on the current batch or not? From the side by sides the current version just look totally unfinished.

Not really looking forward to getting mine knowing that it's going to be harder to use and produce lower quality caps IF the stem fits  :confused: 

I think TechKeys skipped a beat here. At the least they should update their product page to show the latest version not the OG version.

HWS and Binge, all this is aimed at the manufactures and sellers. Hats off to you and how your helping everyone out here by designing these tools!

The current revision is not the same version described in OP.  Please refer to techkeys sale page for the most recent specs.

This is supposed to be raw metal electropolished to smooth out imperfections and aid in release.

I agree the manufacturer really missed their mark here, but you must understand that for the first synth we ran into multiple manufacturing issues and I had to have them sent back to be refinished.

The prototype I received of the new batch is fine and dandy.. of course what I received and signed off on as a suitable product is not what people are receiving.  Which of course isn't a reflection of my involvement, but I must point out this is a sub $100 machined precision mold.  It's not cheap to have these made and many places will not even take our orders or make them too expensive to get machine time.

I care for my partners in making this possible, and while I appreciate criticism I abhore the idea that there are so many negative comments made without first asking questions and getting public statements from myself or by Techkeys.  The scope of work done to make the synth possible would not be attainable alone.  The seller and manufacturers, while accountable, are also part of the reason any of us can afford to own it.  Let's do our best to talk about improvements and the possibility of manufacturer remakes and support Techkeys in their efforts to make the manufacturer present us with the right product.

Right, but you're telling my to use TechKeys for my info source and TechKey points to the GH thread OP to read more about it  :-\ The email from tech keys said 'It's back - now in electropolished stainless steel' which implies it's a new version, but the product page doesn't really do anything to state that.

My above post was expressing my feelings to the forum. I don't think you can blame me for not personally contacting you or techkeys about the product first. Why would I think you have vital information about the product that you're choosing to not put on the product page and/or GH thread?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Tue, 23 August 2016, 18:37:01
Personally I haven't tried how well the mold come off the Synth yet but overall I do appreciate all the hard work going into this project. I can't wait to get started and hopefully the replacement stems get made soon so I can start. I'm happy with the synth overall and will be looking forward to see if I hit some of the snags mentioned in this thread. That said if you guys make a specific topre Synth let me know I'd love to try it out.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Tue, 23 August 2016, 20:27:21
I care for my partners in making this possible, and while I appreciate criticism I abhore the idea that there are so many negative comments made without first asking questions and getting public statements from myself or by Techkeys.

This is a difficult line to walk, and I greatly appreciate the effort you're putting in to resolving a crappy situation and generally Do The Right Thing, with apologies to anyone who remembers that movie. My day job, despite being technical, is basically all about this, and I know how stressful it can be.

People are always going to grumble, especially in a country that considers consumer privilege only slightly less important than freedom of speech and suppressing body odor. And taking a new thing from idea to mailers is *hard*, and mistakes hurt more and are harder to deal with the first dozen times. I think you're kicking ass. You've got my appreciation and empathy.

For folks who are annoyed, well, I am too. But do try to keep in mind that short run custom machining is to typical consumer product fabrication as that special food Mom used to make on your birthday is to Dairy Queen[1]. Except that machinist probably hasn't tried the recipe before and almost certainly is not your mom[2]. If you ever get more involved in small batch products, you'll see that this kind of thing happens *all the time*. It is part (but only part) of what makes bringing a product to market so difficult and risky.

[1] With apologies to orphans and those who are fortunate enough not to know what Dairy Queen is.

[2] If your mom is the machinist, can you ask her what happened to this run? We're all very curious.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Wed, 24 August 2016, 03:07:45
In an effort to do as requested and ask about seeking a solution does anyone actualy know what's technicaly wrong with the delivered version - did they forget to electropolish some/all of them or is it just the swirling causing unwanted friction?  How sticky is raw steel if we attempt to sand/polish them ourselves and how close to the profile of a switch is the top of the synth - is there enough material there to do so?  Probably depends how deep the swirls are...  If they just aren't polished I guess we will have to send them back?

A quick rub with fine sandpaper on the stem is a good solution - it's quick, easy and cheap.  But how do you tell which side(s) need doing, or is the difference so tiny it doesn't matter?

I'm sure someone at Techkeys successfully test fitted some but as usual with spot checking it's basically pointless unless you get 'lucky' and find a bad one.  I'm sure it was an unusually busy day so thanks for getting them out quickly :thumb:

Unlike Jal I don't deal with disatisfied customers because my temperament wouldn't allow it, but I do share his sentiments about your attitude Binge - I'm sure your order is so small as to be throwaway for most machining shops so they are doing us a favor.  At the same time if you paid for 0.001mm accuracy a 0.008mm difference is unacceptable - it's such an inconceivably small difference though!  Is it the same shop who had to refinish the first version?  I guess you (Binge) have one in the mail to inspect so we should wait for a couple of days for an update?

Hopefully we'll see more happy customers today...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 24 August 2016, 09:13:40
One thing that doesn't make sens to me is the finish. The OP states "Teflon coating to ease in mold release", so is there a clear telfon coating on the current batch or not? From the side by sides the current version just look totally unfinished.

Not really looking forward to getting mine knowing that it's going to be harder to use and produce lower quality caps IF the stem fits  :confused: 

I think TechKeys skipped a beat here. At the least they should update their product page to show the latest version not the OG version.

HWS and Binge, all this is aimed at the manufactures and sellers. Hats off to you and how your helping everyone out here by designing these tools!

The current revision is not the same version described in OP.  Please refer to techkeys sale page for the most recent specs.

This is supposed to be raw metal electropolished to smooth out imperfections and aid in release.

I agree the manufacturer really missed their mark here, but you must understand that for the first synth we ran into multiple manufacturing issues and I had to have them sent back to be refinished.

The prototype I received of the new batch is fine and dandy.. of course what I received and signed off on as a suitable product is not what people are receiving.  Which of course isn't a reflection of my involvement, but I must point out this is a sub $100 machined precision mold.  It's not cheap to have these made and many places will not even take our orders or make them too expensive to get machine time.

I care for my partners in making this possible, and while I appreciate criticism I abhore the idea that there are so many negative comments made without first asking questions and getting public statements from myself or by Techkeys.  The scope of work done to make the synth possible would not be attainable alone.  The seller and manufacturers, while accountable, are also part of the reason any of us can afford to own it.  Let's do our best to talk about improvements and the possibility of manufacturer remakes and support Techkeys in their efforts to make the manufacturer present us with the right product.

Right, but you're telling my to use TechKeys for my info source and TechKey points to the GH thread OP to read more about it  :-\ The email from tech keys said 'It's back - now in electropolished stainless steel' which implies it's a new version, but the product page doesn't really do anything to state that.

My above post was expressing my feelings to the forum. I don't think you can blame me for not personally contacting you or techkeys about the product first. Why would I think you have vital information about the product that you're choosing to not put on the product page and/or GH thread?

I'm not singling anyone out and I just want to quote stuff that I believe is pertinent to the following statement. 

The only issue here is the one we need to work out between designer, vendor, and manufacturer.  Please understand that I am trying to keep these sections up to date as best I can when I can find the time.  The last time I edited my OP was well before the most recent version of the synth was slated to go on sale.

For a moment just please accept the following and that I'm making these statements for everyone's benefit and not just to address you,

1) The newest version of the synth was to have an electroplated treatment for longevity and better ease of release.
2) If you have ANY questions please determine if you want to make those questions privately or publicly. 
-If it is a question about the synth please make it here or contact me via PM. 
-If you purchased a synth and have questions about your item it's return or repair please contact info@techkeys.us
3) Please be aware that I have little control over what is posted on the vendor's site, but I am working with him when I can spare the time as much as possible.

I've gotten a pretty continuous stream of confused individuals PMing me citing information that others are posting.  The people cited aren't asking questions, they are making statements and in turn overwhelming the amount of impact our responses have.  Again I'm really not afraid of criticism, but at this point we have limited resources and time in which to respond quickly enough to everyone affected.  Those people are looking for answers and are forming conclusions from what other customers/users are posting.  This isn't efficient and shows the weakness of my partnership with the vendor and manufacturer.

In admitting this I hope that everyone understands that if you work with me I will make sure I do everything in my power to provide you all with information you need.  I do need a bit of cooperation and understanding.  There isn't a reason for anyone to feel this is a personal address.  I just want to benefit as many of you as possible with our knowledge without succumbing to a great deal of excessive damage control.  I want to clarify everything for you, but at this point I need to know what needs clarification.

Thank you for your patience.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Wed, 24 August 2016, 11:40:36
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Wed, 24 August 2016, 11:42:15
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Wed, 24 August 2016, 12:09:07
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Wow hopefully everyone gets theirs that fast, I have a small feeling thats why on Techkeys page it says new Synths wont ship until Sept 12? Because they shipped out the working stems from the remaining stock?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Wed, 24 August 2016, 12:22:00
I don't even have mine yet :-[ Tracking hasn't updated since the 20th damn it.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Marshal on Wed, 24 August 2016, 12:46:37
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Wow hopefully everyone gets theirs that fast, I have a small feeling thats why on Techkeys page it says new Synths wont ship until Sept 12? Because they shipped out the working stems from the remaining stock?

Was talking to a rep and he mentioned that they were taking stems that works properly and used those to replace the defective ones. Quick and easy solution in my opinion and handled swiftly which I appreciated a lot. Hopefully they can handle everything but from my experience, they know what they're doing and are doing their best and I really appreciated how much they communicated
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Cofain on Wed, 24 August 2016, 13:12:55
I don't even have mine yet :-[ Tracking hasn't updated since the 20th damn it.

Same here. Shipping date was 18.08.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Wed, 24 August 2016, 16:33:08
I don't even have mine yet :-[ Tracking hasn't updated since the 20th damn it.

Mine arrived today, complete with friendly customs declaration so yours shouldn't be long.  Thanks Techkeys people :thumb:


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/RoNzxH2.jpg)


5 minutes worth of sanding and we're back in action :D

How far out is it supposed to stick?  After about an hour I think mine's in about as far as yours in this pic with the top of the cross sitting slightly below the top of the Synth which seems to make sense, but there's a ridge on the stem which would need about 2mm more pushed in to bottom out.  I still have some sandpaper though the steel blunts it it in no time :eek:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Jpecina on Wed, 24 August 2016, 20:01:40
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Wow hopefully everyone gets theirs that fast, I have a small feeling thats why on Techkeys page it says new Synths wont ship until Sept 12? Because they shipped out the working stems from the remaining stock?

I ordered mine when it said that and they shipped it the next day. Hope mine turns out ok.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Wed, 24 August 2016, 20:10:27
I don't even have mine yet :-[ Tracking hasn't updated since the 20th damn it.

Mine arrived today, complete with friendly customs declaration so yours shouldn't be long.  Thanks Techkeys people :thumb:
Oh the tension... Just want to know if I bought something that works :)) :))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Thu, 25 August 2016, 02:06:33
I don't even have mine yet :-[ Tracking hasn't updated since the 20th damn it.

Mine arrived today, complete with friendly customs declaration so yours shouldn't be long.  Thanks Techkeys people :thumb:
Oh the tension... Just want to know if I bought something that works :)) :))

Well the stem issue doesn't seem like a big one - the bit you need to file/sand doesn't touch the cap so it doesn't need to be perfect.  Unless the x is also too big?  Hadn't thought of that, maybe I need a replacement anyway :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 25 August 2016, 09:57:03
I don't even have mine yet :-[ Tracking hasn't updated since the 20th damn it.

Mine arrived today, complete with friendly customs declaration so yours shouldn't be long.  Thanks Techkeys people :thumb:


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/RoNzxH2.jpg)


5 minutes worth of sanding and we're back in action :D

How far out is it supposed to stick?  After about an hour I think mine's in about as far as yours in this pic with the top of the cross sitting slightly below the top of the Synth which seems to make sense, but there's a ridge on the stem which would need about 2mm more pushed in to bottom out.  I still have some sandpaper though the steel blunts it it in no time :eek:

see vidya,

https://www.instagram.com/p/BJbPZ8djFso/
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 25 August 2016, 18:17:24
Got mine today. The insert doesn't fit in. Support request sent to info@techkeys.us (http://mailto:info@techkeys.us) as per Binges instruction  :thumb:

Proof potatoes:
More
(http://i.imgur.com/rrNWllq.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/dKn0Jjl.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/JnC8IW1.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jjnist on Thu, 25 August 2016, 18:22:15
First half of a silicon mold is setting right now and the other half will be late tonight....I'll let you guys know how it goes after filing down the stem insert.

edit1: silicon mold was clean, resin setting now for first cap. I'll find out tomorrow how that goes. I am using a demolding spray though so hopefully that helps.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 27 August 2016, 12:33:09
https://www.instagram.com/p/BJnVQ77Dk4k/
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Sun, 28 August 2016, 11:49:17
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Did you get the new stem in?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Sun, 28 August 2016, 11:52:14
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Did you get the new stem in?

Yep, fits identical to my old sanded stem.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Sun, 28 August 2016, 11:58:25
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Did you get the new stem in?

Yep, fits identical to my old sanded stem.

Great!

Hopefully you can add "and I can fit a cap on the new one"?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Sun, 28 August 2016, 12:20:06
Out of curiosity did anyone get a timeframe of how long it takes to make new stems? I'm guessing a week or 2?

Mine will be here by Friday ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Did you get the new stem in?

Yep, fits identical to my old sanded stem.

Great!

Hopefully you can add "and I can fit a cap on the new one"?

Everything works fine with the replacement stem. Video: https://instagram.com/p/BJoOk1JgSWP/

(http://i.imgur.com/BXPyloq.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Jpecina on Sun, 28 August 2016, 14:04:40
Mine arrived yesterday and all is well:) haven't had a chance to try it. Could this somehow be used to make a topre and mx compatible stem?
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160828/b30ebb1ad4c411fd64b585cbd3f8e905.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160828/751478ac6071184660236ce6729232cc.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 28 August 2016, 16:48:40
Mine arrived yesterday and all is well:) haven't had a chance to try it. Could this somehow be used to make a topre and mx compatible stem?
Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160828/b30ebb1ad4c411fd64b585cbd3f8e905.jpg)

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160828/751478ac6071184660236ce6729232cc.jpg)


Just worry about mx for now ;)  We're still working out the specifics of updates/upgrades.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Sun, 28 August 2016, 19:42:16
Did you guys get shipment notifications from Techkeys for replacement stems? I havent heard back from them since the 22nd 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: polentA on Sun, 28 August 2016, 19:54:31
Did you guys get shipment notifications from Techkeys for replacement stems? I havent heard back from them since the 22nd 

Yes, I did at least.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gaiden on Sun, 28 August 2016, 20:00:17
Did you guys get shipment notifications from Techkeys for replacement stems? I havent heard back from them since the 22nd 

Yes, I did at least.
I have not.. Is this automatic or do I have to contact them first?

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Sun, 28 August 2016, 20:20:37
Did you guys get shipment notifications from Techkeys for replacement stems? I havent heard back from them since the 22nd 

Yes, I did at least.
I have not.. Is this automatic or do I have to contact them first?

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk
I think all the replacement stems or what was left have been sent out. Just got a reply from Techkeys the replacement stems are in production.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: polentA on Sun, 28 August 2016, 20:32:54
Did you guys get shipment notifications from Techkeys for replacement stems? I havent heard back from them since the 22nd 

Yes, I did at least.
I have not.. Is this automatic or do I have to contact them first?

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk



I contacted techkeys via email once I realized there was a problem with my stem. I was then updated via email once the new package was sent out. The response was immediate and I'm glad the problem was quickly recognized and solved.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: MajorKoos on Sun, 28 August 2016, 21:33:34
FWIW mine arrived Friday.
Everything seems fine and if it weren't for this thread I'd be none the wiser of any issues.
I'm a happy camper.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Mon, 29 August 2016, 06:19:42
I have a question - has anyone made a makers mark yet and if so how, and out of what?  I'm going to try and make one from the wax that's usually used for designing jewelery but it's so small!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Moistgun on Mon, 29 August 2016, 07:08:14
I have a question - has anyone made a makers mark yet and if so how, and out of what?  I'm going to try and make one from the wax that's usually used for designing jewelery but it's so small!

Is it possible to 3d print something that small and still have detail?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Mon, 29 August 2016, 07:10:23
I have a question - has anyone made a makers mark yet and if so how, and out of what?  I'm going to try and make one from the wax that's usually used for designing jewelery but it's so small!
Same question, wonder how to make that


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Mon, 29 August 2016, 07:25:43
Well I've got a slightly domed bit of wax fitting snugly in there (with the help of a micro torch :))) but it now seems softer so harder to carve.  Going to get lunch and see if it just needs to cool more...

I guess a good 3D printer could work too but it is pretty damn small!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 29 August 2016, 07:33:36
I have a question - has anyone made a makers mark yet and if so how, and out of what?  I'm going to try and make one from the wax that's usually used for designing jewelery but it's so small!

green stuff, skill
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Mon, 29 August 2016, 17:31:18
I have a question - has anyone made a makers mark yet and if so how, and out of what?  I'm going to try and make one from the wax that's usually used for designing jewelery but it's so small!

green stuff, skill

Can confirm - purple stuff (wax) does not work well, guess I need to find some green stuff!  Or maybe it's the skill that's lacking...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Mon, 29 August 2016, 18:55:48
I have a question - has anyone made a makers mark yet and if so how, and out of what?  I'm going to try and make one from the wax that's usually used for designing jewelery but it's so small!

green stuff, skill

this?  :-\

https://www.amazon.com/Green-Stuff-Yellow-Epoxy-Putty/dp/B002MB61RQ

https://www.amazon.com/Citadel-Technical-Liquid-Green-Stuff/dp/B007SBBVKC/ref=pd_sim_21_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=WJE2FTCCRWABFWWGG4RZ
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 29 August 2016, 18:57:19
I have a question - has anyone made a makers mark yet and if so how, and out of what?  I'm going to try and make one from the wax that's usually used for designing jewelery but it's so small!

green stuff, skill

this?  :-\

https://www.amazon.com/Green-Stuff-Yellow-Epoxy-Putty/dp/B002MB61RQ

https://www.amazon.com/Citadel-Technical-Liquid-Green-Stuff/dp/B007SBBVKC/ref=pd_sim_21_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=WJE2FTCCRWABFWWGG4RZ
Yep!

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Tue, 30 August 2016, 08:54:20
What are you guys using for pressure pots? I know I shouldn't go buy one from harbor freight, but have been looking in eBay.

How many of you don't use pressure pots and get good results?

When I have done casting in the past I used to throw them on the dryer when I was drying clothes to help eliminate bubbles.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Tue, 30 August 2016, 09:07:04
What are you guys using for pressure pots? I know I shouldn't go buy one from harbor freight, but have been looking in eBay.

How many of you don't use pressure pots and get good results?

When I have done casting in the past I used to throw them on the dryer when I was drying clothes to help eliminate bubbles.

http://www.finishsystems.com/resincastingpressurepots.html

Has been serving me well
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: clappingcactus on Tue, 30 August 2016, 09:08:52
Mine came in, fits exactly snuggly. Can't wait to test it out soon. Anyone use microscopes for accurate sculpting? Any recommendations?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Tue, 30 August 2016, 12:14:56
What are you guys using for pressure pots? I know I shouldn't go buy one from harbor freight, but have been looking in eBay.

How many of you don't use pressure pots and get good results?

When I have done casting in the past I used to throw them on the dryer when I was drying clothes to help eliminate bubbles.

http://www.finishsystems.com/resincastingpressurepots.html

Has been serving me well

Seconded. I have a couple of them and they're great tools, very solid.

Mine came in, fits exactly snuggly. Can't wait to test it out soon. Anyone use microscopes for accurate sculpting? Any recommendations?

I think a microscope would be a bit overkill, honestly. I use a dental magnification headset and that works just fine for me when doing detail work.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Marshal on Tue, 30 August 2016, 21:00:43
Quick question for all you Synth pros! After using the Synth a bit I've run into the problem of having the stem get stuck every single time. I went from using a little Vaseline on the stem and a little mold release to drenching it in both and it still gets stuck without fail. Always ends up in destroying the casted cap and prying the stem out. Not sure what else to try at this point and any help would be appreciated thanks!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: domoaligato on Tue, 30 August 2016, 22:36:57
Quick question for all you Synth pros! After using the Synth a bit I've run into the problem of having the stem get stuck every single time. I went from using a little Vaseline on the stem and a little mold release to drenching it in both and it still gets stuck without fail. Always ends up in destroying the casted cap and prying the stem out. Not sure what else to try at this point and any help would be appreciated thanks!

what is the mold material?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Tue, 30 August 2016, 23:05:52
Quick question for all you Synth pros! After using the Synth a bit I've run into the problem of having the stem get stuck every single time. I went from using a little Vaseline on the stem and a little mold release to drenching it in both and it still gets stuck without fail. Always ends up in destroying the casted cap and prying the stem out. Not sure what else to try at this point and any help would be appreciated thanks!

What mold release are you using? Are you brushing the mold release out evenly across the surface after spraying?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 31 August 2016, 00:13:13
Quick question for all you Synth pros! After using the Synth a bit I've run into the problem of having the stem get stuck every single time. I went from using a little Vaseline on the stem and a little mold release to drenching it in both and it still gets stuck without fail. Always ends up in destroying the casted cap and prying the stem out. Not sure what else to try at this point and any help would be appreciated thanks!

What mold release are you using? Are you brushing the mold release out evenly across the surface after spraying?

he is using Vaseline instead of a specific product.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Marshal on Wed, 31 August 2016, 00:16:12
We're using Oomoo 30, Alumilite Clear, Vaseline, and just CRC General Purpose Silicone Mold release. Biggest problem is the stem. Will not come out no matter what. Need to rip off the cap from the top and poke the resin through to finally be able to rip out the cap with tools. Thing does not come off, no amount of Vaseline and mold release is doing it.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 31 August 2016, 00:56:19
What are you guys using for pressure pots? I know I shouldn't go buy one from harbor freight, but have been looking in eBay.

How many of you don't use pressure pots and get good results?

When I have done casting in the past I used to throw them on the dryer when I was drying clothes to help eliminate bubbles.

Do not use the dryer :)
Go to a thrift store and get yourself a cheap toaster oven. NEVER USE IT FOR FOOD AFTER USING IT FOR RESIN CASTING!!!
keep the casting in the mold and wrap the mold with foil and place it in the toaster oven for the temp and duration specified by the specifications document for the casting material.
see the notes on post curing.

post curing is also a good idea if you wish to extend the life of your molds. Also always keep a master cast for when your mold rips. It will rip. It is only a matter of when.

I have not used Oomoo as I stuck with the MoldMax line....
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Wed, 31 August 2016, 07:06:10
What are you guys using for pressure pots? I know I shouldn't go buy one from harbor freight, but have been looking in eBay.

How many of you don't use pressure pots and get good results?

When I have done casting in the past I used to throw them on the dryer when I was drying clothes to help eliminate bubbles.

Do not use the dryer :)
Go to a thrift store and get yourself a cheap toaster oven. NEVER USE IT FOR FOOD AFTER USING IT FOR RESIN CASTING!!!
keep the casting in the mold and wrap the mold with foil and place it in the toaster oven for the temp and duration specified by the specifications document for the casting material.
see the notes on post curing.

post curing is also a good idea if you wish to extend the life of your molds. Also always keep a master cast for when your mold rips. It will rip. It is only a matter of when.

I have not used Oomoo as I stuck with the MoldMax line....

Heat (from the exothermic reaction of the resin and from putting it into an oven to postcure the piece) and the action of the resin curing against the mold are two of the greater factors that contribute to decreased life of the mold.

We're using Oomoo 30, Alumilite Clear, Vaseline, and just CRC General Purpose Silicone Mold release. Biggest problem is the stem. Will not come out no matter what. Need to rip off the cap from the top and poke the resin through to finally be able to rip out the cap with tools. Thing does not come off, no amount of Vaseline and mold release is doing it.

Avoid using Vaseline for resin on silicone release. Get a small brush like a solder brush or any small brush with bristles, first. Spray a layer of release on the tool then brush it evenly. Don't go crazy. Just make sure there's no dry spots or big globs. Flip the tool and do that to the other side. Be sure you pay attention to the stem cylinder and the sprue holes. Apply the same process to the stem plug itself. Let each piece sit and dry for 15-30 minutes, then repeat again, allowing them to dry after the second application and brushing.

If you continue to have trouble, consider a different release. Universal Mold Release (UMR) or Mann Ease Release 200 are fine products and should have the properties you're looking for. Good luck!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 31 August 2016, 10:38:08
What are you guys using for pressure pots? I know I shouldn't go buy one from harbor freight, but have been looking in eBay.

How many of you don't use pressure pots and get good results?

When I have done casting in the past I used to throw them on the dryer when I was drying clothes to help eliminate bubbles.

Do not use the dryer :)
Go to a thrift store and get yourself a cheap toaster oven. NEVER USE IT FOR FOOD AFTER USING IT FOR RESIN CASTING!!!
keep the casting in the mold and wrap the mold with foil and place it in the toaster oven for the temp and duration specified by the specifications document for the casting material.
see the notes on post curing.

post curing is also a good idea if you wish to extend the life of your molds. Also always keep a master cast for when your mold rips. It will rip. It is only a matter of when.

I have not used Oomoo as I stuck with the MoldMax line....

Oh I didnt use the dryer for the heat...

Mine shakes a lot so I used the shaking to help eliminate bubbles.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gaiden on Wed, 31 August 2016, 10:59:07
What are you guys using for pressure pots? I know I shouldn't go buy one from harbor freight, but have been looking in eBay.

How many of you don't use pressure pots and get good results?

When I have done casting in the past I used to throw them on the dryer when I was drying clothes to help eliminate bubbles.

Do not use the dryer :)
Go to a thrift store and get yourself a cheap toaster oven. NEVER USE IT FOR FOOD AFTER USING IT FOR RESIN CASTING!!!
keep the casting in the mold and wrap the mold with foil and place it in the toaster oven for the temp and duration specified by the specifications document for the casting material.
see the notes on post curing.

post curing is also a good idea if you wish to extend the life of your molds. Also always keep a master cast for when your mold rips. It will rip. It is only a matter of when.

I have not used Oomoo as I stuck with the MoldMax line....

Oh I didnt use the dryer for the heat...

Mine shakes a lot so I used the shaking to help eliminate bubbles.

yes, lots of shaking would do, do what we are born to do!http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2014/06/16/article-0-1ED1AA6900000578-849_634x426.jpg (http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2014/06/16/article-0-1ED1AA6900000578-849_634x426.jpg) :)) ;)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Fri, 02 September 2016, 09:31:44
Just quick update - I did get some replacement stems out from the remaining stock that I had, but the replacements are are supposed to ship to me on Monday.

Hopefully I can get all the replacements out by the end of next week.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Fri, 02 September 2016, 09:34:19
Just quick update - I did get some replacement stems out from the remaining stock that I had, but the replacements are are supposed to ship to me on Monday.

Hopefully I can get all the replacements out by the end of next week.

Will the stock be put back up on the store at that time too?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Fri, 02 September 2016, 13:10:24
This may or may not be a dumb question, but even with vaseline the stem is stupid hard to take out of the resin and I've broken 2 caps just trying to get the stem out easily. So I was curious whether making a mold from the stem and recreating the stem piece as a silicone part would work or not?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Fri, 02 September 2016, 13:12:12
This may or may not be a dumb question, but even with vaseline the stem is stupid hard to take out of the resin and I've broken 2 caps just trying to get the stem out easily. So I was curious whether making a mold from the stem and recreating the stem piece as a silicone part would work or not?

You're talking about removing the physical metal stem from the Synth after casting? I put a shoelace through mine and pull. Takes a decent amount of force to pull it out, but it's come out nice and cleanly for me each time, using only Ease Release 200.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Fri, 02 September 2016, 13:17:47
This may or may not be a dumb question, but even with vaseline the stem is stupid hard to take out of the resin and I've broken 2 caps just trying to get the stem out easily. So I was curious whether making a mold from the stem and recreating the stem piece as a silicone part would work or not?

You're talking about removing the physical metal stem from the Synth after casting? I put a shoelace through mine and pull. Takes a decent amount of force to pull it out, but it's come out nice and cleanly for me each time, using only Ease Release 200.
I'll have to try that, I've tried easy release 200 but I swear it seems like nothing ever comes out of the canister, maybe I'm crazy but no matter what I do for directions it doesnt seem to want to come out.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Fri, 02 September 2016, 17:10:19
This may or may not be a dumb question, but even with vaseline the stem is stupid hard to take out of the resin and I've broken 2 caps just trying to get the stem out easily. So I was curious whether making a mold from the stem and recreating the stem piece as a silicone part would work or not?

You're talking about removing the physical metal stem from the Synth after casting? I put a shoelace through mine and pull. Takes a decent amount of force to pull it out, but it's come out nice and cleanly for me each time, using only Ease Release 200.
I'll have to try that, I've tried easy release 200 but I swear it seems like nothing ever comes out of the canister, maybe I'm crazy but no matter what I do for directions it doesnt seem to want to come out.

I use a screwdriver that fits through the hole to pull at it, fwiw. Make sure you're brushing it out on the stem too. I also had a tougher time with 200 than I did with UMR, though I'm sure that was my fault somehow. I know plenty of people use 200 just fine.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: AceRuckus on Tue, 06 September 2016, 01:38:20
Has anyone tried sculpting on this with Sculpey or something similar, non-epoxy? Was wondering how sticky it was to the synth after baking.

This may or may not be a dumb question, but even with vaseline the stem is stupid hard to take out of the resin and I've broken 2 caps just trying to get the stem out easily. So I was curious whether making a mold from the stem and recreating the stem piece as a silicone part would work or not?

You're talking about removing the physical metal stem from the Synth after casting? I put a shoelace through mine and pull. Takes a decent amount of force to pull it out, but it's come out nice and cleanly for me each time, using only Ease Release 200.
I'll have to try that, I've tried easy release 200 but I swear it seems like nothing ever comes out of the canister, maybe I'm crazy but no matter what I do for directions it doesnt seem to want to come out.

I use a screwdriver that fits through the hole to pull at it, fwiw. Make sure you're brushing it out on the stem too. I also had a tougher time with 200 than I did with UMR, though I'm sure that was my fault somehow. I know plenty of people use 200 just fine.

I've used some string and wrapped it in several times and muscled it out fairly easily.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Str1pez on Tue, 06 September 2016, 19:39:57
Hello, I was in contact with y'all via email, but it appears I haven't gotten any word about the replacement stem shipping out yet.  I sent another email just now as well.  Should be from a Paul.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Wed, 07 September 2016, 02:15:49
Hello, I was in contact with y'all via email, but it appears I haven't gotten any word about the replacement stem shipping out yet.  I sent another email just now as well.  Should be from a Paul.

Just quick update - I did get some replacement stems out from the remaining stock that I had, but the replacements are are supposed to ship to me on Monday.

Hopefully I can get all the replacements out by the end of next week.

Can't send what they don't have but don't worry, you'll get one when they restock.  As will I :)

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: gadzkun on Wed, 07 September 2016, 23:20:54
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 08 September 2016, 06:54:41
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mobbo on Thu, 08 September 2016, 08:17:52
binge i have placed a piece of clay on top the synth and it has been gestating for three days now. the clay doesn't appear to have molded itself into a design.... not exactly sure how to move forward. also when i try to remove the clay, it makes a little screaming sound like a trapped rodent. it may be the cat droppings ive been smoking, it might be the tool itself.... the only way i can know is if u say so

please advise.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 08 September 2016, 09:02:36
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/

Need moar mad science binee posts  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Waateva on Thu, 08 September 2016, 09:20:30
binge i have placed a piece of clay on top the synth and it has been gestating for three days now. the clay doesn't appear to have molded itself into a design.... not exactly sure how to move forward. also when i try to remove the clay, it makes a little screaming sound like a trapped rodent. it may be the cat droppings ive been smoking, it might be the tool itself.... the only way i can know is if u say so

please advise.

Also would like to know the answer to this.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theanyday on Thu, 08 September 2016, 12:26:45
Well I've just ordered a :~$ynth.
Now I need to figure out everything else I'll need to source and order.
 :-X
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: theoriginal123123 on Thu, 08 September 2016, 12:29:31
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
Looks like if people had taken the time to read up on stuff, they could've helped themselves. Who'd have thought?! Cray
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 08 September 2016, 14:20:08
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
Looks like if people had taken the time to read up on stuff, they could've helped themselves. Who'd have thought?! Cray
No need to be smug. Someone asked if there is a tutorial, no need to paint them as someone who's done zero research. GH is pretty hard to search through when you have specific questions.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Thu, 08 September 2016, 16:43:05
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
Looks like if people had taken the time to read up on stuff, they could've helped themselves. Who'd have thought?! Cray
No need to be smug. Someone asked if there is a tutorial, no need to paint them as someone who's done zero research. GH is pretty hard to search through when you have specific questions.

Well, I mean, I did answer that question here on this very page though...  :))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 08 September 2016, 16:58:19
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
Looks like if people had taken the time to read up on stuff, they could've helped themselves. Who'd have thought?! Cray
No need to be smug. Someone asked if there is a tutorial, no need to paint them as someone who's done zero research. GH is pretty hard to search through when you have specific questions.

Well, I mean, I did answer that question here on this very page though...  :))

I mean, I'm grateful for everyone leaving tips for people but "I use a screwdriver that fits through the hole to pull at it, fwiw" isn't really the answer, it's one answer and maybe you have hulk strength :))

I think it's clear that selling a DIY product like this that people should do their research, but I really hate the RTFM manual attitude because there is no manual to direct people to. 'Read the whole thread' isn't scalable advice. If only there was something better than forum threads for people to collaborate and neatly organise information.... :dogethink:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Thu, 08 September 2016, 17:03:17
any tutorial how to use synth step by step im still confusing here

My + stem always get stuck because the resin getting hard and its really hard to remove it :(

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
Looks like if people had taken the time to read up on stuff, they could've helped themselves. Who'd have thought?! Cray
No need to be smug. Someone asked if there is a tutorial, no need to paint them as someone who's done zero research. GH is pretty hard to search through when you have specific questions.

Well, I mean, I did answer that question here on this very page though...  :))

I mean, I'm grateful for everyone leaving tips for people but "I use a screwdriver that fits through the hole to pull at it, fwiw" isn't really the answer, it's one answer and maybe you have hulk strength :))

I think it's clear that selling a DIY product like this that people should do their research, but I really hate the RTFM manual attitude because there is no manual to direct people to. 'Read the whole thread' isn't scalable advice. If only there was something better than forum threads for people to collaborate and neatly organise information.... :dogethink:

Hah well I mean I suppose I was thinking more like this post

Quote
Avoid using Vaseline for resin on silicone release. Get a small brush like a solder brush or any small brush with bristles, first. Spray a layer of release on the tool then brush it evenly. Don't go crazy. Just make sure there's no dry spots or big globs. Flip the tool and do that to the other side. Be sure you pay attention to the stem cylinder and the sprue holes. Apply the same process to the stem plug itself. Let each piece sit and dry for 15-30 minutes, then repeat again, allowing them to dry after the second application and brushing.

If you continue to have trouble, consider a different release. Universal Mold Release (UMR) or Mann Ease Release 200 are fine products and should have the properties you're looking for. Good luck!

But I get what you're saying
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: thefebruaryman on Fri, 09 September 2016, 17:56:37
where'd I get one of these. They got topre making bits?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Fri, 09 September 2016, 17:57:39
where'd I get one of these. They got topre making bits?
techkeys.us

no, only mx for now
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Wed, 14 September 2016, 00:17:33
Any news on Techkeys replacement stems?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: thefebruaryman on Wed, 14 September 2016, 02:44:39
where'd I get one of these. They got topre making bits?
techkeys.us

no, only mx for now

bummer I'm a topre only sorta guy :(. Hopefully soon
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: apolotary on Thu, 15 September 2016, 07:38:31
Any news on shipping dates? It was Sep 12th when I preordered, now it's 28th...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Thu, 15 September 2016, 15:40:14
Unfortunately there was a delay in the manufacturing followed by a holiday.  I was previously told they would ship last week, but now I'm told they will ship next week.

Sorry for the delay guys - rest assured I feel your frustration x100
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: IMBoddy on Thu, 15 September 2016, 21:51:23
Unfortunately there was a delay in the manufacturing followed by a holiday.  I was previously told they would ship last week, but now I'm told they will ship next week.

Sorry for the delay guys - rest assured I feel your frustration x100
Thanks for the update! Cant wait for a fitted stem, btw was the only issue people having it not fitting in the slot? Mine I filed down (Very crudely) but got it in the slot, although the few blanks I made the actual insert part into the resin was big as well and any keys I made were way too big on the switch and wouldnt even sit on the switch?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: apolotary on Fri, 16 September 2016, 00:31:16
Unfortunately there was a delay in the manufacturing followed by a holiday.  I was previously told they would ship last week, but now I'm told they will ship next week.

Sorry for the delay guys - rest assured I feel your frustration x100

No problem at all, just can't wait to get into MX keycap making :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Fri, 16 September 2016, 02:13:57
Unfortunately there was a delay in the manufacturing followed by a holiday.  I was previously told they would ship last week, but now I'm told they will ship next week.

Sorry for the delay guys - rest assured I feel your frustration x100

Thanks for the update :thumb:

btw was the only issue people having it not fitting in the slot? Mine I filed down (Very crudely) but got it in the slot, although the few blanks I made the actual insert part into the resin was big as well and any keys I made were way too big on the switch and wouldnt even sit on the switch?

Sounds right - if the machine was not cutting enough off the middle for whatever reason (too small cutting bit fitted?) it couldn't do the end properly.  I spent ages filing mine down very tidily to get it in but never used it after thinking this would happen - thanks for confirming.  Sorry to hear your first caps were duds though, they were good practice runs :)

Question is what do we do with the dodgy insert?  My only thoughts were it's kinda arrow shaped so should fly well, and could wear it as a pendant as it has a hole :))
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Sat, 24 September 2016, 06:22:20
Finally got some time to use the $ynth. The final product has a pretty loose stem. So maybe it's something to fix for the next version of the $ynth


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Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Sat, 24 September 2016, 06:29:38
Finally got some time to use the $ynth. The final product has a pretty loose stem. So maybe it's something to fix for the next version of the $ynth


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It could also be your casting process.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Sat, 24 September 2016, 09:26:29
Finally got some time to use the $ynth. The final product has a pretty loose stem. So maybe it's something to fix for the next version of the $ynth


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It could also be your casting process.
Can you please more specific on that?


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Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 24 September 2016, 10:18:57
Finally got some time to use the $ynth. The final product has a pretty loose stem. So maybe it's something to fix for the next version of the $ynth


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It could also be your casting process.
Can you please more specific on that?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Resins have material shrinkage issues.  A low tolerance resin will make a more loose stem.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Sun, 25 September 2016, 10:41:47
Finally got some time to use the $ynth. The final product has a pretty loose stem. So maybe it's something to fix for the next version of the $ynth


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It could also be your casting process.
Can you please more specific on that?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Resins have material shrinkage issues.  A low tolerance resin will make a more loose stem.
Thank you I'll look into that problem then


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Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: monocletophat on Mon, 26 September 2016, 07:14:34
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rpeterclark on Mon, 26 September 2016, 09:12:28
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?

When making the silicone mold, you'll want to have the sprue holes plugged somehow so that you can later inject resin through them. Q-tips sticks are the perfect diameter:

(http://i.imgur.com/LSEtGVi.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 26 September 2016, 09:27:11
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?

When making the silicone mold, you'll want to have the sprue holes plugged somehow so that you can later inject resin through them. Q-tips sticks are the perfect diameter:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/LSEtGVi.jpg)


FWIW I've yet to plug the holes and haven't had issues. I just trim the excess silicone away after the fact.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 26 September 2016, 09:36:36
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?

When making the silicone mold, you'll want to have the sprue holes plugged somehow so that you can later inject resin through them. Q-tips sticks are the perfect diameter:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/LSEtGVi.jpg)


Correct!  We measured q-tips and set the holes to match the diameter for this very purpose.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Mon, 26 September 2016, 09:39:34
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?

When making the silicone mold, you'll want to have the sprue holes plugged somehow so that you can later inject resin through them. Q-tips sticks are the perfect diameter:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/LSEtGVi.jpg)


Correct!  We measured q-tips and set the holes to match the diameter for this very purpose.

They didn't fit for me  :'( would probably have made the whole process slightly easier when getting started. Should retry that sometime. Polymer clay works just fine hah
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: hkf on Mon, 26 September 2016, 21:48:49
Unfortunately there was a delay in the manufacturing followed by a holiday.  I was previously told they would ship last week, but now I'm told they will ship next week.

Sorry for the delay guys - rest assured I feel your frustration x100

Any ETA on replacement stems?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SoftKeys on Tue, 27 September 2016, 15:57:42
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?

When making the silicone mold, you'll want to have the sprue holes plugged somehow so that you can later inject resin through them. Q-tips sticks are the perfect diameter:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/LSEtGVi.jpg)



Correct!  We measured q-tips and set the holes to match the diameter for this very purpose.

They didn't fit for me  :'( would probably have made the whole process slightly easier when getting started. Should retry that sometime. Polymer clay works just fine hah

Q-tips are a very tight fit for mine, not worth the effort to cut and use them. I just used clay to plug the holes too.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 27 September 2016, 16:24:45
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?

When making the silicone mold, you'll want to have the sprue holes plugged somehow so that you can later inject resin through them. Q-tips sticks are the perfect diameter:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/LSEtGVi.jpg)



Correct!  We measured q-tips and set the holes to match the diameter for this very purpose.

They didn't fit for me  :'( would probably have made the whole process slightly easier when getting started. Should retry that sometime. Polymer clay works just fine hah

Q-tips are a very tight fit for mine, not worth the effort to cut and use them. I just used clay to plug the holes too.

f-king tolerances >.<
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Tue, 27 September 2016, 16:27:31
Quick question, do you cover the sprue holes when you make the silicone mold? does it matter if whether I'm doing a 2 part mold or just casting with the :~$ynth?

When making the silicone mold, you'll want to have the sprue holes plugged somehow so that you can later inject resin through them. Q-tips sticks are the perfect diameter:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/LSEtGVi.jpg)



Correct!  We measured q-tips and set the holes to match the diameter for this very purpose.

They didn't fit for me  :'( would probably have made the whole process slightly easier when getting started. Should retry that sometime. Polymer clay works just fine hah

Q-tips are a very tight fit for mine, not worth the effort to cut and use them. I just used clay to plug the holes too.
Q-tips work fine for me. They're a little bit tight so use little force. Just plug and use a nail clippers to cut it off. Super fast this way


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Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: danielucf on Fri, 30 September 2016, 14:16:08
Pressure pot idea. So I homebrew and keg all my beer, the maximum pressure I apply is normally 40, and only for about 24 hours to speed carbonate before dropping to 13-16 psi. Supposedly the Cornelius kegs I use can handle up to 100-135 PSI so they seem to be pretty tolerant. From my limited understanding artisan caps require considerably less pressure than this. So at $35-50 for a refurbished pin lock or ball lock keg they could work as inexpensive and relatively safe pressure pots. I don't cast or anything, but I imagine adapting an air compressor to pressurize one of these kegs also wouldn't be too expensive. My only concerns would be size of the opening, and I imagine making sure no one used the keg for any beverages in the future.

Thoughts?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Fri, 30 September 2016, 15:08:30
Pressure pot idea. So I homebrew and keg all my beer, the maximum pressure I apply is normally 40, and only for about 24 hours to speed carbonate before dropping to 13-16 psi. Supposedly the Cornelius kegs I use can handle up to 100-135 PSI so they seem to be pretty tolerant. From my limited understanding artisan caps require considerably less pressure than this. So at $35-50 for a refurbished pin lock or ball lock keg they could work as inexpensive and relatively safe pressure pots. I don't cast or anything, but I imagine adapting an air compressor to pressurize one of these kegs also wouldn't be too expensive. My only concerns would be size of the opening, and I imagine making sure no one used the keg for any beverages in the future.

Thoughts?

Get an actual pressure pot designed for this use. How would you plan on getting materials in and out of the keg? And kegs have considerably more volume meaning your time to get to pressure would take longer. There's a host of reasons I can think of why it would probably be a bad idea.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 30 September 2016, 15:23:28
Pressure pot idea. So I homebrew and keg all my beer, the maximum pressure I apply is normally 40, and only for about 24 hours to speed carbonate before dropping to 13-16 psi. Supposedly the Cornelius kegs I use can handle up to 100-135 PSI so they seem to be pretty tolerant. From my limited understanding artisan caps require considerably less pressure than this. So at $35-50 for a refurbished pin lock or ball lock keg they could work as inexpensive and relatively safe pressure pots. I don't cast or anything, but I imagine adapting an air compressor to pressurize one of these kegs also wouldn't be too expensive. My only concerns would be size of the opening, and I imagine making sure no one used the keg for any beverages in the future.

Thoughts?

It would still have to be assembled and tested by an ASME certified manufacturer.  The integrity of the keg may be compromised as soon as the keg is cut an opening.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Nerdiary on Fri, 30 September 2016, 19:50:27
It would still have to be assembled and tested by an ASME certified manufacturer.  The integrity of the keg may be compromised as soon as the keg is cut an opening.

Why would we be cutting a hole in a keg? Cornelius kegs have a 3.5" opening. Big enough to get your arm through. All the specs line up, but it won't be as practical as a pressure pot. 5 gallon kegs are pretty deep, and the smaller kegs are pricey. You could lay a 5 gal on its side and place a flat surface inside to rest molds. Getting molds in and out will be more difficult than it needs to be, due to the depth of the container and small size of opening. I vote for pressure pot.

If you do go the keg route, just remember to be safe. Check for damage, test pressure release valves, accurate gauges, etc.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 30 September 2016, 20:35:58
It would still have to be assembled and tested by an ASME certified manufacturer.  The integrity of the keg may be compromised as soon as the keg is cut an opening.

Why would we be cutting a hole in a keg? Cornelius kegs have a 3.5" opening. Big enough to get your arm through. All the specs line up, but it won't be as practical as a pressure pot. 5 gallon kegs are pretty deep, and the smaller kegs are pricey. You could lay a 5 gal on its side and place a flat surface inside to rest molds. Getting molds in and out will be more difficult than it needs to be, due to the depth of the container and small size of opening. I vote for pressure pot.

If you do go the keg route, just remember to be safe. Check for damage, test pressure release valves, accurate gauges, etc.

It's not large enough to get a proper sized mold in without warping the mold.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 03 October 2016, 08:01:41
:::SPOILERS:::
More
(http://i.imgur.com/qHqofyB.png)
:::SPOILERS:::

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 03 October 2016, 08:06:42
:::SPOILERS:::
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qHqofyB.png)
:::SPOILERS:::



(https://media.giphy.com/media/xHX546S4pQBPy/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Kenda on Mon, 03 October 2016, 08:39:55
:::SPOILERS:::
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qHqofyB.png)
:::SPOILERS:::
I need more synth. Too many molds not enough synth


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SoftKeys on Mon, 03 October 2016, 09:43:29
:::SPOILERS:::
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qHqofyB.png)
:::SPOILERS:::

 :eek:  I might have to pick this up too
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Mon, 03 October 2016, 09:56:38
:::SPOILERS:::
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qHqofyB.png)
:::SPOILERS:::



Very interesting design! I'm assuming that the marks on the top will act as a wider anchor?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 03 October 2016, 10:34:23
:::SPOILERS:::
More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qHqofyB.png)
:::SPOILERS:::



Very interesting design! I'm assuming that the marks on the top will act as a wider anchor?

Exactly!  You have the eye of the tiger Mr. Potato
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Nerdiary on Tue, 04 October 2016, 19:53:05
Can't wait to see how the design revisions go. On a related note, finally got my $ynth. Mold release, that is all I need to say. Mold release the crap out of that thing. Resin is tenacious.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: drakeonyou on Tue, 04 October 2016, 20:09:55
You might be designing a 6.25 spacebar version of this, for all we know.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 05 October 2016, 06:49:07
You might be designing a 6.25 spacebar version of this, for all we know.

That's an understatement.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Fictiouz on Wed, 05 October 2016, 06:52:58
You might be designing a 6.25 spacebar version of this, for all we know.

That's an understatement.

6.25u = understatement. 7u Synth confirmed.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Wed, 05 October 2016, 07:45:09
In addition to my awesome Otterophile I got my replacement Synth stem today and it seems very loose - is this normal or should I be worried the stem is also too small this time?

(http://gifyu.com/images/synth.gif)

Possibly an easier question, should it fit in easily at 45 degrees like this?  My hand filed original which fits snugly does not ...

(http://i.imgur.com/GK7ojam.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 05 October 2016, 08:09:20
In addition to my awesome Otterophile I got my replacement Synth stem today and it seems very loose - is this normal or should I be worried the stem is also too small this time?

Show Image
(http://gifyu.com/images/synth.gif)


Possibly an easier question, should it fit in easily at 45 degrees like this?  My hand filed original which fits snugly does not ...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GK7ojam.jpg)


can it wiggle to a 45 or just be inserted at a 45?  If you can turn it to a 45, that is far too loose, but if you need to take it out and insert it at a 45 then you may just want to do what I do with my more loose stems and that is to make two shims to keep the stem from wobbling.  You can use thin tongue depressors or really anything rigid and flat.

The problem isn't if this part is loose, it's if this part does not give you the correct cruciform in the keycap.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Wed, 05 October 2016, 08:39:48
N
In addition to my awesome Otterophile I got my replacement Synth stem today and it seems very loose - is this normal or should I be worried the stem is also too small this time?

Show Image
(http://gifyu.com/images/synth.gif)


Possibly an easier question, should it fit in easily at 45 degrees like this?  My hand filed original which fits snugly does not ...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GK7ojam.jpg)


can it wiggle to a 45 or just be inserted at a 45?  If you can turn it to a 45, that is far too loose, but if you need to take it out and insert it at a 45 then you may just want to do what I do with my more loose stems and that is to make two shims to keep the stem from wobbling.  You can use thin tongue depressors or really anything rigid and flat.

The problem isn't if this part is loose, it's if this part does not give you the correct cruciform in the keycap.

That sounds reassuring, it only rotates maybe 10 degrees as in the gif so guess I'm good to go - thanks!  Just took delivery of all the messy fun stuff too :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Wed, 05 October 2016, 09:08:32
You might be designing a 6.25 spacebar version of this, for all we know.

That's an understatement.

6.25u = understatement. 7u Synth confirmed.

I don't know what you read but I just read full keyset die confirmed
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Wed, 05 October 2016, 17:54:25
You might be designing a 6.25 spacebar version of this, for all we know.

That's an understatement.

6.25u = understatement. 7u Synth confirmed.

I don't know what you read but I just read full keyset die confirmed

You're both wrong, it's an 11u synth so everyone can make artisans for vintage boards with absurdly large spacebars.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: drakeonyou on Wed, 05 October 2016, 18:34:28
You might be designing a 6.25 spacebar version of this, for all we know.

That's an understatement.

6.25u = understatement. 7u Synth confirmed.

I don't know what you read but I just read full keyset die confirmed

You're both wrong, it's an 11u synth so everyone can make artisans for vintage boards with absurdly large spacebars.

I had to google the meaning of "understatement" just to know that we're on the same page.

I think he's going to make molds to create molds.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Wed, 05 October 2016, 18:53:06
To create a keycap, you must first create the universe.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Thu, 06 October 2016, 23:53:54
Everyone's wrong. It is a mold for making tiny Bingelets, who will then create even smaller molds...

Got my replacement stem. A bit loose, it will rotate a few percent. Nothing a shim won't handle. Thanks!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Fri, 07 October 2016, 02:49:46
Got my replacement stem. A bit loose, it will rotate a few percent. Nothing a shim won't handle. Thanks!
I found wrapping a thin strip of paper round it once was enough, it's amazing how such a small difference feels so loose!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Fri, 07 October 2016, 08:34:54
Got my replacement stem. A bit loose, it will rotate a few percent. Nothing a shim won't handle. Thanks!
I found wrapping a thin strip of paper round it once was enough, it's amazing how such a small difference feels so loose!

Yeah, haven't gotten the micrometer out, but it is a few thousandths off. Aluminum foil was my first thought.

Actually, my first thought was "don't use these machinists; I do a fine job of milling mistakes all by myself", but then I'm a jerk.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 07 October 2016, 09:19:07
Got my replacement stem. A bit loose, it will rotate a few percent. Nothing a shim won't handle. Thanks!
I found wrapping a thin strip of paper round it once was enough, it's amazing how such a small difference feels so loose!

Yeah, haven't gotten the micrometer out, but it is a few thousandths off. Aluminum foil was my first thought.

Actually, my first thought was "don't use these machinists; I do a fine job of milling mistakes all by myself", but then I'm a jerk.

If you know of a good shop that will produce these at a higher quality at a reasonable cost please contact Techkeys, info@techkeys.us
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Jpecina on Wed, 12 October 2016, 12:57:43
has anyone tried casting blanks from GMK cherry profile? seems that the key doesn't sit all the way and silicon slips inside. OEM seems to sit perfect.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Wed, 12 October 2016, 13:08:31
has anyone tried casting blanks from GMK cherry profile? seems that the key doesn't sit all the way and silicon slips inside. OEM seems to sit perfect.

It's expected that you will need to remove material from the inside of the cap for it to rest flatly on the synth
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Wed, 12 October 2016, 13:08:57
has anyone tried casting blanks from GMK cherry profile? seems that the key doesn't sit all the way and silicon slips inside. OEM seems to sit perfect.

You'll need to remove some material from the underside of the cap for Cherry Profile keys to work properly.

EDIT: Sniped by fendent
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Wed, 12 October 2016, 13:31:03
has anyone tried casting blanks from GMK cherry profile? seems that the key doesn't sit all the way and silicon slips inside. OEM seems to sit perfect.

You'll need to remove some material from the underside of the cap for Cherry Profile keys to work properly.

Same deal with SA - out with the dremmel!

I've attempted 4 caps so far, I'm getting less bubbles each time (no pressure pot) but the only one that's actually usable is the first :))

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Jpecina on Mon, 17 October 2016, 23:24:47
has anyone tried casting blanks from GMK cherry profile? seems that the key doesn't sit all the way and silicon slips inside. OEM seems to sit perfect.

You'll need to remove some material from the underside of the cap for Cherry Profile keys to work properly.

Same deal with SA - out with the dremmel!

I've attempted 4 caps so far, I'm getting less bubbles each time (no pressure pot) but the only one that's actually usable is the first :))

Are you using a fast setting resin? I noticed that the slower curing ones tend to yield the least bubbles
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suicidal_orange on Tue, 18 October 2016, 02:01:25
has anyone tried casting blanks from GMK cherry profile? seems that the key doesn't sit all the way and silicon slips inside. OEM seems to sit perfect.

You'll need to remove some material from the underside of the cap for Cherry Profile keys to work properly.

Same deal with SA - out with the dremmel!

I've attempted 4 caps so far, I'm getting less bubbles each time (no pressure pot) but the only one that's actually usable is the first :))

Are you using a fast setting resin? I noticed that the slower curing ones tend to yield the least bubbles

It's the half hour smooth on one, was hoping to learn what effects what (temperature, time in the mold, pouring technique...) relatively quickly but all I've learned is that excitedly throwing way too much unmeasured resin down the stem hole with no care at all gets better results overall than carefully measuring and pouring, and that the orange dye I bought isn't dark enough, or white resin was a bad choice.

The answer appears to be staring me in the face when written like that...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: alveeno on Sat, 22 October 2016, 23:41:42
Got my Synth. Qtip's dont fit the sprue holes and cherry profile caps need to be trimmed underneath to fit onto the synth :*(
Tfw you have to now scavenge for old legos to make a mold
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 22 October 2016, 23:46:48


Got my Synth. Qtip's dont fit the sprue holes and cherry profile caps need to be trimmed underneath to fit onto the synth :*(
Tfw you have to now scavenge for old legos to make a mold

Do you need any help?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: alveeno on Sun, 23 October 2016, 16:13:42
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SoftKeys on Sun, 23 October 2016, 16:39:15
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Edit:
Easy way is to put a shoelace through the stem piece, hold the synth base down by stepping on it or something, pull up using the shoelace. It may break the keycap, but make sure you apply proper mold release.
Last resort if pulling it out fails you could use MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) to dissolve/expand the resin. You'll have to let the synth piece soak in it for 1-2 days, and then try removing the resin and stem piece.

Hope that helps
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rpeterclark on Sun, 23 October 2016, 17:04:33
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: alveeno on Sun, 23 October 2016, 22:18:53
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.

(http://i.imgur.com/7jcVeoW.jpg)

rip
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Sun, 23 October 2016, 23:02:29
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7jcVeoW.jpg)


rip

Fwiw, you should be exerting force on both sides of the driver when pulling. Pulling from one side drastically reduces your force directly backing out of the platform. Anyway, the **** does appear to be extremely stuck. Haha. You may need to go a chemical route if that doesn't work.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Sun, 23 October 2016, 23:04:44
Synth stands for

Simply
Yuse
Nplenty
Tof
Hmold release
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: alveeno on Sun, 23 October 2016, 23:43:04
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7jcVeoW.jpg)


rip

Fwiw, you should be exerting force on both sides of the driver when pulling. Pulling from one side drastically reduces your force directly backing out of the platform. Anyway, the **** does appear to be extremely stuck. Haha. You may need to go a chemical route if that doesn't work.

I was indeed applying pressure on both sides. I just tried to pull it as hard as I could with my finger tips lol. :)
(http://i.imgur.com/BNXtKgH.jpg)
Anyways, I got it out thanks to vise grips, and a screwdriver & hammer.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rpeterclark on Mon, 24 October 2016, 07:00:44
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7jcVeoW.jpg)


rip

Fwiw, you should be exerting force on both sides of the driver when pulling. Pulling from one side drastically reduces your force directly backing out of the platform. Anyway, the **** does appear to be extremely stuck. Haha. You may need to go a chemical route if that doesn't work.

I was indeed applying pressure on both sides. I just tried to pull it as hard as I could with my finger tips lol. :)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/BNXtKgH.jpg)

Anyways, I got it out thanks to vise grips, and a screwdriver & hammer.

Ha! Wow. The Synth is also good for bending steel apparently. Glad you found another way!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 24 October 2016, 07:15:49
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7jcVeoW.jpg)


rip

Fwiw, you should be exerting force on both sides of the driver when pulling. Pulling from one side drastically reduces your force directly backing out of the platform. Anyway, the **** does appear to be extremely stuck. Haha. You may need to go a chemical route if that doesn't work.

I was indeed applying pressure on both sides. I just tried to pull it as hard as I could with my finger tips lol. :)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/BNXtKgH.jpg)

Anyways, I got it out thanks to vise grips, and a screwdriver & hammer.

Make sure you get that release agent all over.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BK1qkx7jjs5/
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Mewsicbox on Tue, 25 October 2016, 13:27:53
Is there an estimated date when more will be stocked? I had been sitting on the idea of purchasing one, and decided to pull the trigger a day too late!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 October 2016, 14:12:15
Is there an estimated date when more will be stocked? I had been sitting on the idea of purchasing one, and decided to pull the trigger a day too late!

We're working on that.  New revision will be available with the next restock.  Trying to get previous customers a bit of a break for continued support!  We are pushing development for you all :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Mewsicbox on Tue, 25 October 2016, 14:14:04
Is there an estimated date when more will be stocked? I had been sitting on the idea of purchasing one, and decided to pull the trigger a day too late!

We're working on that.  New revision will be available with the next restock.  Trying to get previous customers a bit of a break for continued support!  We are pushing development for you all :D

Oh awesome! ^-^ I will be stalking for the update then ~ :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: pinkizhip on Tue, 25 October 2016, 14:44:49
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7jcVeoW.jpg)


rip

Fwiw, you should be exerting force on both sides of the driver when pulling. Pulling from one side drastically reduces your force directly backing out of the platform. Anyway, the **** does appear to be extremely stuck. Haha. You may need to go a chemical route if that doesn't work.

I was indeed applying pressure on both sides. I just tried to pull it as hard as I could with my finger tips lol. :)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/BNXtKgH.jpg)

Anyways, I got it out thanks to vise grips, and a screwdriver & hammer.

Make sure you get that release agent all over.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BK1qkx7jjs5/

Thanks for the informative and highly enjoyable vids.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 October 2016, 15:15:04
Casted using synth today, stem insert is stuck, I thought I applied vaseline to the right spots but guess not? How do I get it out? :P

Screwdriver through the stem form is how I do it, like in Binge's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLycszaglu-/. You can get a lot of leverage this way.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7jcVeoW.jpg)


rip

Fwiw, you should be exerting force on both sides of the driver when pulling. Pulling from one side drastically reduces your force directly backing out of the platform. Anyway, the **** does appear to be extremely stuck. Haha. You may need to go a chemical route if that doesn't work.

I was indeed applying pressure on both sides. I just tried to pull it as hard as I could with my finger tips lol. :)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/BNXtKgH.jpg)

Anyways, I got it out thanks to vise grips, and a screwdriver & hammer.

Make sure you get that release agent all over.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEgJ1ZjuyG/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BKEiXeIjDdA/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BK1qkx7jjs5/

Thanks for the informative and highly enjoyable vids.

Shill-Binge here:  Follow my IG for more synth tips, doges, and jerked meats.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: pinkizhip on Fri, 28 October 2016, 18:00:27
I have a quick question about sculpting on the $ynth before I get started. I read in the first post in this thread that it should be okay to use sculpey. If this is correct does that mean you can bake the sculpy onto the $ynth? How easy is the baked Sculpey to remove once you have done your master mold?  I've seen pics of other sculpts that look like they are done with regular grey clay to and I'm wondering if this is the best option?(If this is indeed what they are using it could just be a grey polymer clay)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 28 October 2016, 23:47:57
I have a quick question about sculpting on the $ynth before I get started. I read in the first post in this thread that it should be okay to use sculpey. If this is correct does that mean you can bake the sculpy onto the $ynth? How easy is the baked Sculpey to remove once you have done your master mold?  I've seen pics of other sculpts that look like they are done with regular grey clay to and I'm wondering if this is the best option?(If this is indeed what they are using it could just be a grey polymer clay)


Don't expect to keep your original sculpted master unless you use something like epoxy.  Baking Sculpey onto a synth will have the same effect as hardening it on a metal plate.  Try it and see what happens.  The synth will have more edges for the sculpey to grip and therefore create friction if you try and remove.

Just start sculpting, when you have something-- then you ask these questions about curing your master sculpt.  You can make molds of all kinds of things made on the synth.  You can use brushable silicone, clay, epoxy, polymer clay, and wax to name a few.  It doesn't need to be hard to be molded, just mounted on a synth and a sculpt you can stand looking at.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 29 October 2016, 00:35:23
Someday I'll get one of these...
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 29 October 2016, 08:16:42
Someday I'll get one of these...
Soon^tm
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: pinkizhip on Sat, 29 October 2016, 10:15:22

...okay to use sculpey. If this is correct does that mean you can bake the sculpy onto the $ynth? How easy is the baked Sculpey to remove once you have done your master mold?

  It doesn't need to be hard to be molded, just mounted on a synth and a sculpt you can stand looking at.

Thanks muchly for the info.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jlavador on Sat, 05 November 2016, 00:21:43
That Hungrkey is soooo cool, whens the next time I might be able to get one?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 05 November 2016, 00:26:39
Someday I'll get one of these...
Soon^tm

I have a new cap I really wanted to make on it.  I ended up making it without it.  Maybe its partner will be synth made.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iammbox on Wed, 16 November 2016, 23:48:50
besides here, is there anyplace to find out when these are in stock again?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 16 November 2016, 23:58:00
besides here, is there anyplace to find out when these are in stock again?
Not really. I am awaiting the next prototype before production starts.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iammbox on Thu, 17 November 2016, 00:04:40
besides here, is there anyplace to find out when these are in stock again?
Not really. I am awaiting the next prototype before production starts.

Damn thanks for the quick response.  Looking forward to it.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: BabrahamDinkin on Thu, 24 November 2016, 13:53:39
besides here, is there anyplace to find out when these are in stock again?
Not really. I am awaiting the next prototype before production starts.

Damn thanks for the quick response.  Looking forward to it.

I e-mailed TechKeys on Nov 14th, and this is the response I got:

"We are in the process of creating a prototype for the new and improved :~$ynth.

Between prototypes, testing and manufacturing I think we are at least 5-7 weeks out, but feel free to subscribe to the newsletter to be notified as soon as it is available"
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Fri, 02 December 2016, 11:38:26
Protos are on their way to Binge for testing - the look awesome
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: pinkbatman on Wed, 07 December 2016, 23:06:10
Just stumbled across this on IG, very excited to get one when they are back on the market.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 08 December 2016, 07:25:31
(http://i.imgur.com/4Kutgm8.jpg)

First test complete.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HIAviator on Tue, 20 December 2016, 12:13:43
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4Kutgm8.jpg)


First test complete.

Looking forward to further updates!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: arielrahamim on Fri, 23 December 2016, 17:33:38
that's AWESOME
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: breusch91 on Sat, 24 December 2016, 23:39:44
Very interested into getting into the artisan game. just wondering if this is still on track to come out in the next few weeks or if I should just go ahead and get an aftermarket v2 of it now?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: menuhin on Mon, 09 January 2017, 11:42:26
I've also contemplating a mold.
In particular for creating caps for myself for Topre and Alps switches.

The Artisan caps out there are fancy, but they're pricey at the same time and not necessary what I'm looking for.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SKD on Fri, 13 January 2017, 11:19:04
Any new update on the V2 synth?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 13 January 2017, 11:25:27
Any new update on the V2 synth?

V1.5 and it's in production.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SKD on Fri, 13 January 2017, 11:46:22
Any new update on the V2 synth?

V1.5 and it's in production.

Neat! How is the finish compared to the previous run? I see the yellow cap further up and it looks really smooth, so I'm guessing the V1.5 synth will be too?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HIAviator on Fri, 13 January 2017, 13:09:29
Any idea when they'll be up for sale?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 13 January 2017, 16:55:16
Any idea when they'll be up for sale?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Not yet :)  We at HWS don't control distribution.  We designed this tool and with our contacts make sure it gets produced at a reasonable price to make casting and sculpting with a nice tool more affordable than it would be if someone ventured to make a 1-off.  I'm sure techkeys.us will have an answer soon.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: i3oilermaker on Mon, 16 January 2017, 06:40:49
Production has completed and is in route to Techkeys
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: breusch91 on Mon, 16 January 2017, 09:49:12
Production has completed and is in route to Techkeys

Couple questions about the upcoming synth release that may lead to more questions. Are there very significant differences between this and V1? If one of those differences is say an added topre stem would it be possible to just buy that stem for those of us with the V1 already?  Long shot here but  going off there first question if this is a significant change any possibility of trading in our V1's back to you for an "x" amount off the v1.5 synth?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: suparnemo on Mon, 16 January 2017, 10:38:01
Will topre stems potentially be available in the future?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Pdub on Mon, 16 January 2017, 11:37:19
Will topre stems potentially be available in the future?

I thought they are TMX Stems.

Topre stems are hard to make with metal because metal doesn't flex like silicon does.

There are two ways to make topre stems.
1. Tight fitting and typically needs to have a flexible mold. Marder to make.
2. straight fit, can fall off, easy to make.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 16 January 2017, 11:37:20
Production has completed and is in route to Techkeys

Couple questions about the upcoming synth release that may lead to more questions. Are there very significant differences between this and V1? If one of those differences is say an added topre stem would it be possible to just buy that stem for those of us with the V1 already?  Long shot here but  going off there first question if this is a significant change any possibility of trading in our V1's back to you for an "x" amount off the v1.5 synth?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Will topre stems potentially be available in the future?

To be clear, a topre stem that properly fits will not work with the synth metal.  This is why the stem option is not included.  Topre or Alps support would be achieved with a silicone stem insert which the synth owner could make themselves.

A topre stem was made but it was found that the first version of the synth had two issues which interfered with fit.  This version has slightly thinner walls and a different shape to accommodate Topre switch housings.  The most upsetting thing about making topre fitment is that replacing the standard slider with cherry compatible sliders makes the V1 keys compatible and also allows the walls to be thicker.  We did consider this but decided as a template it would be best to give the maker the choice without compromising compatibility.

Everything else is the same.  The platform height, the registration poles, and the gate/sprue system are identical so molds made with the V1 synth can be adapted into this later version for the purpose of making topre keys etc.

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Sat, 21 January 2017, 18:06:54
$ynth butts

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: drakeonyou on Sat, 21 January 2017, 20:51:35
$ynth butts

(Attachment Link)

Sexy
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Sat, 21 January 2017, 21:15:26
$ynth butts

(Attachment Link)

Tease.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Sat, 21 January 2017, 21:47:58
Tease.

(http://i.imgur.com/K1Nezpo.jpg)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HIAviator on Mon, 06 February 2017, 19:39:31
Have they arrived at Techkeys yet?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rmendis on Mon, 06 February 2017, 19:40:57
Have they arrived at Techkeys yet?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Asking the important question



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 07 February 2017, 09:07:34
I can assure you that the synth is not yet ready.  We are doing our utmost to make sure the product is of quality and will produce the intended results.  There will be an announcements of in the future as soon as information is available.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Loft on Wed, 08 February 2017, 11:58:44
If I've got the old stem piece from V1 is it still possible to get the updated version?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 09 February 2017, 06:57:11
If I've got the old stem piece from V1 is it still possible to get the updated version?

Yes it's definitely possible.  The parts should be compatible.  To be clear every stem that has been made has the same dimensions to make it compatible across all versions.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 09 February 2017, 11:18:09
In light of some recent events and pretty horrible attitudes I would like to say something about the :~$ynth project.

I did this wholly for the improvement of artisan keycaps for the community.  Many artisans have felt that the tool has assisted them in understanding the mold making and sculpting process by providing 1/2 of a somewhat complex solution. 

That one half is still the product of years of development.  I will not sit by and say nothing if I find my designs nearly 90% copied.  Anyone who believes they have justification to call me outrageous for wanting to protect what little IP my team is responsible for making is being far more unreasonable.  I may open a discussion with a maker if they are approaching a less gray area of producing their own molds when they share things on social media.  I may not have the entire story which is why I comment in the first place, but those with their hands deep into my team's designs and monikers should step back take stock in what it is they are doing and if they would have even had the inclination to create clones of what I have shown publicly. 

Take a deep breath or however many moments to turn the situation around and think about how you would like to be treated in the event an idea you made real becomes the focus of someone else's workflow.  It feels great to a degree.  It stops being great once that person who admires your work or is inspired by your work insists upon posting design renders of what they claim to be their own rendition of your work.

I ran into two such incidents this morning.  In one incident I asked that the $ynth name not be a part of their hard mold project.  The reason is wholly my own for asking, but I really want nothing to do with their work even though it largely borrows from my original design.  This person treated me with such disrespect and then threw another maker under the bus which brings me to the second incident.  A gentleman creates technical drawings and CAD renders of something that is ridiculously close to the $ynth and when confronted before I even knew about his posts on social media he says it's not copying because he doesn't own a synth and made the design off of pictures of the synth.

If by now you're wondering why I am having such a hard time or asking yourself why I want recognition in some places and not in others.  The answer is simple.  Some projects I truly believe are worth perusing, and I want to be supportive.  I do not believe in some redesigns of my work because they ignore certain calculated design considerations while using other design considerations which could make it confusingly similar to my work.  This confusion causes a lot of work for me when I get asked about someone else's project because it has $ynth all over it.  Conversely some designs are so similar I am actually impressed and proud that someone had reverse engineered my work from a photo, but why do they have to make it public?  Keep it to yourself or give credit where credit is due and state that the intention is for personal use only.  I know that it's a particular set of observations or demands, but I hope that this resonates with some people in and out of the community.

We're working hard to bring more synth models to interested artisans in the future and appreciate the patience of anyone willing to wait as we make sure the quality is 100% as designed.
Title: :~$ynth
Post by: rmendis on Thu, 09 February 2017, 11:26:18
Very sorry to hear this, @Binge

Hope to have the opportunity to buy an authentic $ynth  from you at some point, which I'm sure will be perfect whenever you choose to release it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Thu, 09 February 2017, 11:27:44
That perfectly outlines how I feel as well.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: jal on Thu, 09 February 2017, 11:38:50
Attitudes about copying things vary pretty wildly[1]. What doesn't vary is that what you call someone who takes others' work without credit. You call them a liar[2]. That is because they are claiming to make something they didn't. If they honestly think reverse-engineering is "creation", they are lying to themselves.

[1] Sometimes within the same person. I'm personally proud that I was once called an "informational anarchist" by someone defending the patent system. At the same time, I totally get why people take it personally when their hard work is ripped off. Taking ethics seriously is hard.

[2] More specialized labels apply in some contexts, like 'plagiarist', 'backstabber', 'Microsoft', and 'politician'.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Loft on Thu, 09 February 2017, 11:43:05
What a crumby thing to do. As a community we have to ensure we vote with our wallets and not support such things if they come to fruition. Sorry to hear about that  :'(
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: baldgye on Thu, 09 February 2017, 12:02:43
In light of some recent events and pretty horrible attitudes I would like to say something about the :~$ynth project.

I did this wholly for the improvement of artisan keycaps for the community.  Many artisans have felt that the tool has assisted them in understanding the mold making and sculpting process by providing 1/2 of a somewhat complex solution. 

That one half is still the product of years of development.  I will not sit by and say nothing if I find my designs nearly 90% copied.  Anyone who believes they have justification to call me outrageous for wanting to protect what little IP my team is responsible for making is being far more unreasonable.  I may open a discussion with a maker if they are approaching a less gray area of producing their own molds when they share things on social media.  I may not have the entire story which is why I comment in the first place, but those with their hands deep into my team's designs and monikers should step back take stock in what it is they are doing and if they would have even had the inclination to create clones of what I have shown publicly. 

Take a deep breath or however many moments to turn the situation around and think about how you would like to be treated in the event an idea you made real becomes the focus of someone else's workflow.  It feels great to a degree.  It stops being great once that person who admires your work or is inspired by your work insists upon posting design renders of what they claim to be their own rendition of your work.

I ran into two such incidents this morning.  In one incident I asked that the $ynth name not be a part of their hard mold project.  The reason is wholly my own for asking, but I really want nothing to do with their work even though it largely borrows from my original design.  This person treated me with such disrespect and then threw another maker under the bus which brings me to the second incident.  A gentleman creates technical drawings and CAD renders of something that is ridiculously close to the $ynth and when confronted before I even knew about his posts on social media he says it's not copying because he doesn't own a synth and made the design off of pictures of the synth.

If by now you're wondering why I am having such a hard time or asking yourself why I want recognition in some places and not in others.  The answer is simple.  Some projects I truly believe are worth perusing, and I want to be supportive.  I do not believe in some redesigns of my work because they ignore certain calculated design considerations while using other design considerations which could make it confusingly similar to my work.  This confusion causes a lot of work for me when I get asked about someone else's project because it has $ynth all over it.  Conversely some designs are so similar I am actually impressed and proud that someone had reverse engineered my work from a photo, but why do they have to make it public?  Keep it to yourself or give credit where credit is due and state that the intention is for personal use only.  I know that it's a particular set of observations or demands, but I hope that this resonates with some people in and out of the community.

We're working hard to bring more synth models to interested artisans in the future and appreciate the patience of anyone willing to wait as we make sure the quality is 100% as designed.

That's so strange, that some of the people making artisans would be of questionable morals and/or skill... if only we'd know before you gave them a tool to help them mass produce these shoddy projects!!

*shakes fist*
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: breusch91 on Thu, 09 February 2017, 12:25:20
In light of some recent events and pretty horrible attitudes I would like to say something about the :~$ynth project.

I did this wholly for the improvement of artisan keycaps for the community.  Many artisans have felt that the tool has assisted them in understanding the mold making and sculpting process by providing 1/2 of a somewhat complex solution. 

That one half is still the product of years of development.  I will not sit by and say nothing if I find my designs nearly 90% copied.  Anyone who believes they have justification to call me outrageous for wanting to protect what little IP my team is responsible for making is being far more unreasonable.  I may open a discussion with a maker if they are approaching a less gray area of producing their own molds when they share things on social media.  I may not have the entire story which is why I comment in the first place, but those with their hands deep into my team's designs and monikers should step back take stock in what it is they are doing and if they would have even had the inclination to create clones of what I have shown publicly. 

Take a deep breath or however many moments to turn the situation around and think about how you would like to be treated in the event an idea you made real becomes the focus of someone else's workflow.  It feels great to a degree.  It stops being great once that person who admires your work or is inspired by your work insists upon posting design renders of what they claim to be their own rendition of your work.

I ran into two such incidents this morning.  In one incident I asked that the $ynth name not be a part of their hard mold project.  The reason is wholly my own for asking, but I really want nothing to do with their work even though it largely borrows from my original design.  This person treated me with such disrespect and then threw another maker under the bus which brings me to the second incident.  A gentleman creates technical drawings and CAD renders of something that is ridiculously close to the $ynth and when confronted before I even knew about his posts on social media he says it's not copying because he doesn't own a synth and made the design off of pictures of the synth.

If by now you're wondering why I am having such a hard time or asking yourself why I want recognition in some places and not in others.  The answer is simple.  Some projects I truly believe are worth perusing, and I want to be supportive.  I do not believe in some redesigns of my work because they ignore certain calculated design considerations while using other design considerations which could make it confusingly similar to my work.  This confusion causes a lot of work for me when I get asked about someone else's project because it has $ynth all over it.  Conversely some designs are so similar I am actually impressed and proud that someone had reverse engineered my work from a photo, but why do they have to make it public?  Keep it to yourself or give credit where credit is due and state that the intention is for personal use only.  I know that it's a particular set of observations or demands, but I hope that this resonates with some people in and out of the community.

We're working hard to bring more synth models to interested artisans in the future and appreciate the patience of anyone willing to wait as we make sure the quality is 100% as designed.

I started sculpting artisans last month because I got my hands on the $ynth. It makes everything easier and honestly idk if I would of continued with my work without it. Thank you so much for designing it and making it available to us. I'm sorry some people are ungrateful and are trying to copy your designs, but know that there are a lot of us that very much respect what you do, and what you design. You've inspired me and others with your creations.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 09 February 2017, 13:14:49
In light of some recent events and pretty horrible attitudes I would like to say something about the :~$ynth project.

I did this wholly for the improvement of artisan keycaps for the community.  Many artisans have felt that the tool has assisted them in understanding the mold making and sculpting process by providing 1/2 of a somewhat complex solution. 

That one half is still the product of years of development.  I will not sit by and say nothing if I find my designs nearly 90% copied.  Anyone who believes they have justification to call me outrageous for wanting to protect what little IP my team is responsible for making is being far more unreasonable.  I may open a discussion with a maker if they are approaching a less gray area of producing their own molds when they share things on social media.  I may not have the entire story which is why I comment in the first place, but those with their hands deep into my team's designs and monikers should step back take stock in what it is they are doing and if they would have even had the inclination to create clones of what I have shown publicly. 

Take a deep breath or however many moments to turn the situation around and think about how you would like to be treated in the event an idea you made real becomes the focus of someone else's workflow.  It feels great to a degree.  It stops being great once that person who admires your work or is inspired by your work insists upon posting design renders of what they claim to be their own rendition of your work.

I ran into two such incidents this morning.  In one incident I asked that the $ynth name not be a part of their hard mold project.  The reason is wholly my own for asking, but I really want nothing to do with their work even though it largely borrows from my original design.  This person treated me with such disrespect and then threw another maker under the bus which brings me to the second incident.  A gentleman creates technical drawings and CAD renders of something that is ridiculously close to the $ynth and when confronted before I even knew about his posts on social media he says it's not copying because he doesn't own a synth and made the design off of pictures of the synth.

If by now you're wondering why I am having such a hard time or asking yourself why I want recognition in some places and not in others.  The answer is simple.  Some projects I truly believe are worth perusing, and I want to be supportive.  I do not believe in some redesigns of my work because they ignore certain calculated design considerations while using other design considerations which could make it confusingly similar to my work.  This confusion causes a lot of work for me when I get asked about someone else's project because it has $ynth all over it.  Conversely some designs are so similar I am actually impressed and proud that someone had reverse engineered my work from a photo, but why do they have to make it public?  Keep it to yourself or give credit where credit is due and state that the intention is for personal use only.  I know that it's a particular set of observations or demands, but I hope that this resonates with some people in and out of the community.

We're working hard to bring more synth models to interested artisans in the future and appreciate the patience of anyone willing to wait as we make sure the quality is 100% as designed.

I started sculpting artisans last month because I got my hands on the $ynth. It makes everything easier and honestly idk if I would of continued with my work without it. Thank you so much for designing it and making it available to us. I'm sorry some people are ungrateful and are trying to copy your designs, but know that there are a lot of us that very much respect what you do, and what you design. You've inspired me and others with your creations.

Appreciate the kindness :) Thank you and everyone else who has been sharing here.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: robotmaxtron on Fri, 10 February 2017, 13:03:49
Ugh. Binge I'm sorry to hear about your experiences. I wanted to chime in with a 'me too' in hugely supporting you. I'm not an artisan, I likely won't ever be but I do like to collect and display the artisans I've got. As a member of some open source projects I fully realize how one persons contributions impact the entire community in ways that are so greatly important and overlooked at times. The $ynth has been a burst of life into the artisan community and I too want to make sure that you are appreciated for your efforts as well as Techkeys and the people involved in various aspects of the project to make it a success.

Thank you for continuing to refine the project.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Wylte on Fri, 10 February 2017, 14:06:13
Disclaimer:  I haven't seen the posts responsible for starting this, am just going off of what's written in this thread.

Wife is beginning the journey to being an artisan and has repeatedly lamented not having a tool like the $ynth, and the difficulty of getting one, so I understand people's motivation for trying to imitate.  That said, posting your imitation for others, using the name of the original, and having a ****ty attitude to the person whose work you're stealing is unacceptable.  Really sorry you're having to deal with this, and hope it doesn't hurt you guys or your relationship with the community.
Looking forward to the updated $ynth, and seeing how much more we can do with it  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SoftKeys on Fri, 10 February 2017, 21:44:26
Sorry to hear that Binge, I'm sure that must be very frustrating. I just want to say thanks for all the work you put into the $ynth because I never would have tried to make my own artisan sculpts if it wasn't for your tool as a starting point. The project has definitely made an impact on the growth of the artisan community. Keep up the great work!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Sat, 11 February 2017, 00:54:18
I'd like to say thank you to everyone who has supported Binge, techkeys, and myself through this ordeal. I think I speak for all of us when I say your support, comments about design, and continued use of the synth has been a huge motivator to continue improving the design. Without you guys none of this would've been possible  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xiaoxuesheng on Wed, 15 February 2017, 03:10:53
Where can I buy a metal die!!! Can you give me a website? Thank!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: FioraCorp on Wed, 15 February 2017, 03:35:35
Where can I buy a metal die!!! Can you give me a website? Thank!

I can assure you that the synth is not yet ready.  We are doing our utmost to make sure the product is of quality and will produce the intended results.  There will be an announcements of in the future as soon as information is available.

 :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xiaoxuesheng on Wed, 15 February 2017, 03:47:43
Where can I buy a metal die!!! Can you give me a website? Thank!

I can assure you that the synth is not yet ready.  We are doing our utmost to make sure the product is of quality and will produce the intended results.  There will be an announcements of in the future as soon as information is available.

 :thumb:
This is really convenient for a lot of creators, but also saves raw materials! It's really something for all lovers! I hope you can get some of your hard work! Support original! Yes, can you say a little bit of time, and the previous generation of $Ynth is how much money this I did not find
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 15 February 2017, 11:39:03
Where can I buy a metal die!!! Can you give me a website? Thank!

I can assure you that the synth is not yet ready.  We are doing our utmost to make sure the product is of quality and will produce the intended results.  There will be an announcements of in the future as soon as information is available.

 :thumb:
This is really convenient for a lot of creators, but also saves raw materials! It's really something for all lovers! I hope you can get some of your hard work! Support original! Yes, can you say a little bit of time, and the previous generation of $Ynth is how much money this I did not find

I'd imagine it'll cost about $80 or so shipped.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xiaoxuesheng on Wed, 15 February 2017, 12:15:54
Where can I buy a metal die!!! Can you give me a website? Thank!

I can assure you that the synth is not yet ready.  We are doing our utmost to make sure the product is of quality and will produce the intended results.  There will be an announcements of in the future as soon as information is available.
Thanks and look forward to getting it soon

 :thumb:
This is really convenient for a lot of creators, but also saves raw materials! It's really something for all lovers! I hope you can get some of your hard work! Support original! Yes, can you say a little bit of time, and the previous generation of $Ynth is how much money this I did not find

I'd imagine it'll cost about $80 or so shipped.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: breusch91 on Wed, 15 February 2017, 20:40:40
Hey Binge, been using the Synth a lot lately working on some sculpts. I've been noticing a lot of times where the 4 corner pieces get in the way of an area i want to detail, and i'm forced to go at it from a different/more uncomfortable angle. Kind of like if you are playing a game of pool in a small basement and you end up lining up a shot but realize your stick doesn't have enough room and keeps ramming into the wall so you have to figure out a different way that might not be optimal/workout as well. I'm not sure how finished the design is for the upcoming version but any change we could get those 4 corner pieces to be detachable (like putting a key onto a stem, or a lego)? Just pop them off when you're sculpting so you have more freedom, pop them back on when you're about to cast. 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Wed, 15 February 2017, 21:23:46
Hey Binge, been using the Synth a lot lately working on some sculpts. I've been noticing a lot of times where the 4 corner pieces get in the way of an area i want to detail, and i'm forced to go at it from a different/more uncomfortable angle. Kind of like if you are playing a game of pool in a small basement and you end up lining up a shot but realize your stick doesn't have enough room and keeps ramming into the wall so you have to figure out a different way that might not be optimal/workout as well. I'm not sure how finished the design is for the upcoming version but any change we could get those 4 corner pieces to be detachable (like putting a key onto a stem, or a lego)? Just pop them off when you're sculpting so you have more freedom, pop them back on when you're about to cast.

Something like that would be possible but there are a few potential issues/ reasons not to. It'd make the synth more expensive to produce and thus more expensive to buy + if that were done it'd open the possibility for alignment issues when using the synth to cast caps.

In the end the final decision is up to binge but I don't see that being one of the synth changes we have planned.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 15 February 2017, 21:34:49
The corners also function as a blade guard for demolding.  The whole design is two fold.  One tool for sculpting and molding.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Fri, 17 February 2017, 09:23:12
I have been thinking about tinkering with artisans and came across this project. This is very cool. I've done some mould making and casting but have never done any sculpting. It seems to me having this easily reusable base is a no brainer. Now I just have to sit and twiddle my thumbs till this next version is ready for consumers.

twiddles thumbs... checks for updates... twiddles thumbs... checks for updates... 


Amazing work Binge, excited for when these are available again.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: met3or on Tue, 21 February 2017, 10:48:17
Similar to the sentiments of other users in this thread, it's awful to hear about the troubles you're having Binge.  I'll be sure to follow and support this project as much as I'm able to!

I was looking to pick up a :~$ynth for some future projects of mine, but I'm also interested in the manual molding procedure, so would be interesting in leveraging the $ynth, once I've understood and practiced the molding / creating process from scratch! 

Look forward to future updates!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 21 February 2017, 14:58:06
Similar to the sentiments of other users in this thread, it's awful to hear about the troubles you're having Binge.  I'll be sure to follow and support this project as much as I'm able to!

I was looking to pick up a :~$ynth for some future projects of mine, but I'm also interested in the manual molding procedure, so would be interesting in leveraging the $ynth, once I've understood and practiced the molding / creating process from scratch! 

Look forward to future updates!

Looking forward to having more for ya :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Robotical on Tue, 21 February 2017, 22:12:11
Similar to the sentiments of other users in this thread, it's awful to hear about the troubles you're having Binge.  I'll be sure to follow and support this project as much as I'm able to!

I was looking to pick up a :~$ynth for some future projects of mine, but I'm also interested in the manual molding procedure, so would be interesting in leveraging the $ynth, once I've understood and practiced the molding / creating process from scratch! 

Look forward to future updates!

Looking forward to having more for ya :)

I deeply regret missing on the first round. Can't wait for more to be available, already have some designs ready to be sculpted.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: hippiepete on Sun, 05 March 2017, 15:42:05
Hey Binge! just coming around to give ya a feel gud.

It's disheartening to see this type of behaviour in such a tight community. But i'm so very glad to be around during this transition in facilitating the creation of keycaps, so many new artisans have popped up since the $ynth and what's better than seeing people expressing themselves creatively  ;D

Looking forward to $ynth v2 :thumb: 
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: monojira on Sun, 19 March 2017, 16:58:54
As somebody that is incredibly interested in the synth and wants to make high quality keycaps rather than eyeballing it and creating low-quality compromises, I am here to support you in your endeavour.
Although I usually follow you in many things you create anyways, would you be interested to setup a mailing list / newsletter for interested artisians?

I think many people here would greatly benefit from your invention and I can't wait to see the final results.

Greetings!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: breusch91 on Tue, 21 March 2017, 10:09:29
Couple questions regarding the synth. I'm going to be purchasing a Pressure Pot soon and need some more information on how to safely use it, I know it applies a uniform pressure to the entire pot and helps push out air bubbles. Using the synth in the past when casting I just use it as shown, create a mold of the top with your sculpt, remove sculpt, cast into mold and press synth into that on top then insert stem all the way and let sit. 

Now is it safe to still cast in this manner and place this into the pressure pot? My brain says that without in some way securing the synth/synth stem to the mold that the synth/synth stem would pop out of the mold. Is it okay to just rubber band this down, or is it safer to just create a two part mold (mold of synth+sculpt, and mold of synth butt+stem) and rubber band those together?  Obviously I will need to do the latter part eventually when casting more then one at a time, but for now I'm just working with a one off for testing/finalizing before I proceed.

TL:DR I am okay using the synth to cast without a pressure pot, about to use one, whats the safest way to go about casting using the synth in the pressure pot?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SoftKeys on Tue, 21 March 2017, 10:48:45
Now is it safe to still cast in this manner and place this into the pressure pot? My brain says that without in some way securing the synth/synth stem to the mold that the synth/synth stem would pop out of the mold. Is it okay to just rubber band this down, or is it safer to just create a two part mold (mold of synth+sculpt, and mold of synth butt+stem) and rubber band those together?  Obviously I will need to do the latter part eventually when casting more then one at a time, but for now I'm just working with a one off for testing/finalizing before I proceed.

TL:DR I am okay using the synth to cast without a pressure pot, about to use one, whats the safest way to go about casting using the synth in the pressure pot?

Yes, you cast in the same manner as you described. When pressure casting, make sure you also make the mold under pressure as well, or else any air bubbles present in a non-pressurized mold could implode when put under pressure and you'll end up with some defects in the mold.

You can use rubber bands to secure the mold to the synth, but I've never needed to do that because I don't use the half-mold more than a few times before I make a 2-part mold of the cap. The synth or stem won't pop out under pressure, since the force is applied uniformly.

Hopefully this info helps and answers your questions.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: sachin3767 on Tue, 21 March 2017, 11:05:59
@Binge Came to see what the latest was on this project and came across all the drama. Sorry to hear this mate. I do hope that you continue with this and look forward to the developments.

I truly believe in naming and shaming, not just for shaming but so that those less in the know do not purchase 2nd class products. It does give them free publicity but it seems everyone here is supporting your hard work.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ghostdeini on Tue, 21 March 2017, 15:19:48
Now is it safe to still cast in this manner and place this into the pressure pot? My brain says that without in some way securing the synth/synth stem to the mold that the synth/synth stem would pop out of the mold. Is it okay to just rubber band this down, or is it safer to just create a two part mold (mold of synth+sculpt, and mold of synth butt+stem) and rubber band those together?  Obviously I will need to do the latter part eventually when casting more then one at a time, but for now I'm just working with a one off for testing/finalizing before I proceed.

TL:DR I am okay using the synth to cast without a pressure pot, about to use one, whats the safest way to go about casting using the synth in the pressure pot?

Yes, you cast in the same manner as you described. When pressure casting, make sure you also make the mold under pressure as well, or else any air bubbles present in a non-pressurized mold could implode when put under pressure and you'll end up with some defects in the mold.

You can use rubber bands to secure the mold to the synth, but I've never needed to do that because I don't use the half-mold more than a few times before I make a 2-part mold of the cap. The synth or stem won't pop out under pressure, since the force is applied uniformly.

Hopefully this info helps and answers your questions.

When you transition to a 2-part mold, is the 2nd part essentially just a copy of the synth's business end (with the 4 nubs and stem insert pointing downwards)?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: SoftKeys on Tue, 21 March 2017, 16:46:44
When you transition to a 2-part mold, is the 2nd part essentially just a copy of the synth's business end (with the 4 nubs and stem insert pointing downwards)?

You could do that, but I always just make another mold from scratch, because I tend to smooth/sand some parts of the cap design after the initial cast.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ghostdeini on Tue, 21 March 2017, 17:03:34
When you transition to a 2-part mold, is the 2nd part essentially just a copy of the synth's business end (with the 4 nubs and stem insert pointing downwards)?

You could do that, but I always just make another mold from scratch, because I tend to smooth/sand some parts of the cap design after the initial cast.

Ah I see now, thank you! I've been trying to wrap my head around the actual process and logistics of casting while awaiting the return of the synth.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Arallu on Wed, 07 June 2017, 01:01:36
congrats on the launch Binge!  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 07 June 2017, 23:58:36
congrats on the launch Binge!  :thumb:

Thank you!  Also grats to techkeys.us!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Wylte on Thu, 08 June 2017, 02:29:09
congrats on the launch Binge!  :thumb:

Thank you!  Also grats to techkeys.us!

Dat shadowdrop doe!  Got one ordered, excited to finally try $ynth for ourselves  :D
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Phenix on Thu, 08 June 2017, 12:32:53
well.. did I got it right that have to build the artisan, do-that-with-box, receive the mold, and in the end use the mold to make a few more keycaps?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: ashwinv11 on Mon, 12 June 2017, 15:59:45

Thank you!  Also grats to techkeys.us!

Congrats Binge and Techkeys!! Is this stem just MX or does it also support Topre?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Joey Quinn on Tue, 13 June 2017, 11:22:58

Thank you!  Also grats to techkeys.us!

Congrats Binge and Techkeys!! Is this stem just MX or does it also support Topre?

Just MX this round
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 13 June 2017, 12:39:51

Thank you!  Also grats to techkeys.us!

Congrats Binge and Techkeys!! Is this stem just MX or does it also support Topre?

Just MX this round
To clarify you can make your own topre stem.  The body of the mold is compatible.  The provided stem is not.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: TheGlyph on Tue, 27 June 2017, 12:58:28
Excited to finally get a $ynth! Thanks for making the newest run happen =) Two questions for you (for now):

If using sculpy, do you consider it OK to bake the $ynth along with clay (275*F@15mins)?  Obviously the alu will be ok, but not entirely sure what kind of coatings you went with on the newest version.

Would you be willing to provide a dimensioned drawing of the parameter hole patterns? I'd like to make a single piece hole blocker so I don't have to fill them with clay every time I cast a mold (happy to provide my CAD for everyone else when I'm done).
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 28 June 2017, 10:01:10
Excited to finally get a $ynth! Thanks for making the newest run happen =) Two questions for you (for now):

If using sculpy, do you consider it OK to bake the $ynth along with clay (275*F@15mins)?  Obviously the alu will be ok, but not entirely sure what kind of coatings you went with on the newest version.

Would you be willing to provide a dimensioned drawing of the parameter hole patterns? I'd like to make a single piece hole blocker so I don't have to fill them with clay every time I cast a mold (happy to provide my CAD for everyone else when I'm done).


@TheGlyph - I think I could get that for you and even do you one better by getting that CAD pre-made.

There are no special coatings with the new synth, just hard anodizing.  You would want to put some sort of release between sculpy and the synth.  People have found a thin coat of vaseline to work with polymer clay, but please try other things.  I use vegetable oil for epoxy work on my synths.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: fendent on Mon, 04 September 2017, 02:54:49
Excited to finally get a $ynth! Thanks for making the newest run happen =) Two questions for you (for now):

If using sculpy, do you consider it OK to bake the $ynth along with clay (275*F@15mins)?  Obviously the alu will be ok, but not entirely sure what kind of coatings you went with on the newest version.

Would you be willing to provide a dimensioned drawing of the parameter hole patterns? I'd like to make a single piece hole blocker so I don't have to fill them with clay every time I cast a mold (happy to provide my CAD for everyone else when I'm done).

fwiw i've designed my own tool for this. the main measurement if you haven't figured it out by now is 19mm for opposing sprue holes center to center.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: DillonHightower on Tue, 26 September 2017, 15:15:21
@Binge
Hey buddy, I went to order a synth today and techkeys are all sold out :-(

Any idea when stock may arrive again?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 26 September 2017, 16:17:37
@Binge
Hey buddy, I went to order a synth today and techkeys are all sold out :-(

Any idea when stock may arrive again?

Bruh you cant make K3's on a synth
Only K3 can make K3, fact.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Tue, 26 September 2017, 17:31:39
Yea, I got 2 and now I realize I need 2-4 more.

Such an awesome product!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 26 September 2017, 17:46:18
Yea, I got 2 and now I realize I need 2-4 more.

Such an awesome product!

You'll be in luck!  The next round are in the process of being ordered.  These are a special type of item, so I hope everyone understands that time is essential to make a quality product.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: mr scooty on Tue, 26 September 2017, 17:47:42
Yea, I got 2 and now I realize I need 2-4 more.

Such an awesome product!

You'll be in luck!  The next round are in the process of being ordered.  These are a special type of item, so I hope everyone understands that time is essential to make a quality product.

Stoked to hear! Hoping to pick one up when I can
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Tue, 26 September 2017, 21:02:56
Yea, I got 2 and now I realize I need 2-4 more.

Such an awesome product!

You'll be in luck!  The next round are in the process of being ordered.  These are a special type of item, so I hope everyone understands that time is essential to make a quality product.

Awesome. I know as soon as they come in stock Im getting two more and if I can afford it at the time I'll get 4. Nothing like wanting to sculpt when both your synth are in the pressure pot.

Thanks for a great product it makes life so much easier.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: DillonHightower on Wed, 27 September 2017, 15:10:33
Yea, I got 2 and now I realize I need 2-4 more.

Such an awesome product!

You'll be in luck!  The next round are in the process of being ordered.  These are a special type of item, so I hope everyone understands that time is essential to make a quality product.

Stoked to hear! Hoping to pick one up when I can

Im sure the wait will be well worth it.. Every advancement has in this product has been awesome! Thanks for taking the time for making this. It has helped so many make awesome caps! Cant wait to see the new revisions to make an already good product great!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: hydrochloride on Tue, 03 October 2017, 07:03:14
I can't wait for new stock to come out. My wife and I really want to make keycaps. She loves playing with resins and clays.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Tue, 03 October 2017, 07:57:39
I can't wait for new stock to come out. My wife and I really want to make keycaps. She loves playing with resins and clays.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk

You technically don't need the synth. You could just start working with clay on top of existing caps. They are much harder to mold properly particularly the stems. People were doing it long before the Synth but the Synth makes things so much easier. That said no reson you cant start sculpting and just wait on the synth to mold as most caps will sit right on top of the synth.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: hydrochloride on Tue, 03 October 2017, 08:00:50
I can't wait for new stock to come out. My wife and I really want to make keycaps. She loves playing with resins and clays.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk

You technically don't need the synth. You could just start working with clay on top of existing caps. They are much harder to mold properly particularly the stems. People were doing it long before the Synth but the Synth makes things so much easier. That said no reson you cant start sculpting and just wait on the synth to mold as most caps will sit right on top of the synth.
We're in the process of moving soon but I agree. I was going to buy some tools to file down key caps to sculpt without adding too much to the top of the cap. We've talked about different things, but she wants to do stuff with resins, so we're looking at various things. She definitely wants this though and has been bugging me for one lol

Either way, she's been working on other projects so she's busy and distracted from keycaps in the meantime.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Murrellz on Wed, 01 November 2017, 06:03:36
Any idea of when more synths will be in stock?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 01 November 2017, 12:59:47
Any idea of when more synths will be in stock?

I would suggest subscribing to the Techkeys.us e-mail list/newsletter for a heads up!  We have a round going into production, and I should have some units to sell on my site as well.  I'll make sure to post here when it is ready.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: hydrochloride on Fri, 03 November 2017, 07:25:21
Any idea of when more synths will be in stock?

I would suggest subscribing to the Techkeys.us e-mail list/newsletter for a heads up!  We have a round going into production, and I should have some units to sell on my site as well.  I'll make sure to post here when it is ready.
What website is that? I hope you made plenty of production units.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 03 November 2017, 10:27:04
Any idea of when more synths will be in stock?

I would suggest subscribing to the Techkeys.us e-mail list/newsletter for a heads up!  We have a round going into production, and I should have some units to sell on my site as well.  I'll make sure to post here when it is ready.
What website is that? I hope you made plenty of production units.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk
The website which sells the :~$ynth keycap mold solution.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: sublyme on Sun, 05 November 2017, 22:46:01

If using sculpy, do you consider it OK to bake the $ynth along with clay


I've gathered that this is ok, but is there anything I should be coating the synth with prior to baking my artisan on it? Will it get stuck or just pop off the synth with a little pressure?


Edit: never mind.  I see a release agent is not needed with sculpy :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: TheGlyph on Tue, 21 November 2017, 17:06:48
I finally made it to stem casting on my two 2.0 $ynths and have been disappointed to find the stem fit so lose on both that if I tip a switch upside down the cap falls straight off (doesn't even need a shake). Is this something I need to take up with techkeys, known issue/fix, or what? Any help appreciated!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: xondat on Tue, 21 November 2017, 19:19:36
I finally made it to stem casting on my two 2.0 $ynths and have been disappointed to find the stem fit so lose on both that if I tip a switch upside down the cap falls straight off (doesn't even need a shake). Is this something I need to take up with techkeys, known issue/fix, or what? Any help appreciated!

Finally got some time to use the $ynth. The final product has a pretty loose stem. So maybe it's something to fix for the next version of the $ynth

It could also be your casting process.

Can you please more specific on that?

Resins have material shrinkage issues.  A low tolerance resin will make a more loose stem.

Quoting a previous post, hope that's helpful.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: kenlee on Tue, 21 November 2017, 20:03:49
I finally made it to stem casting on my two 2.0 $ynths and have been disappointed to find the stem fit so lose on both that if I tip a switch upside down the cap falls straight off (doesn't even need a shake). Is this something I need to take up with techkeys, known issue/fix, or what? Any help appreciated!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXVtM_RDc99/?taken-by=hungerworkstudio

FYI
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 21 November 2017, 20:15:52
I finally made it to stem casting on my two 2.0 $ynths and have been disappointed to find the stem fit so lose on both that if I tip a switch upside down the cap falls straight off (doesn't even need a shake). Is this something I need to take up with techkeys, known issue/fix, or what? Any help appreciated!
We worked with our factory to identify several uncertainties when someone casts a stem.  In a future iteration of the stem we applied a tighter tolerance which is more suitable to a wide variety of resins.  A lot of artists have taken stem forms they own and manually adjusted the dimensions to suit their needs.

You will need some calipers and take it slow, but because it is aluminum you can augment this mold part with control by hand.

Rubbing resin together in the woods for warmth.

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: TheGlyph on Wed, 22 November 2017, 17:40:18
Thanks guys - appreciate the info.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: menuhin on Thu, 30 November 2017, 08:48:30
Hi Binge,

Will TMX stem (or Topre) but supported in the future?
If no, what is your suggestion to implement those?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 06 December 2017, 14:41:33
Hello!

I'd like to thank everyone who has supported our Synth manufacturing.  To date over 600 units have been produced if we count all of the releases.  The continued promise to improve on the tool quality has been made possible by supports.

To provide additional support for the tool I would like everyone interested in the synth to remember that in this revision and future revisions it is important to apply release agent.  In the coming days I will make another video and post it here.

I've provided Techkeys.us with verbiage to include with :~$ynth orders which reads,

Quote
The :~$ynth mold system is best used in conjunction with a Polysiloxane mold release agent.  This is a common release agent used to aid in the release of plastics from plastics, rubber, and metal.  For first time use please apply up to 3 coatings of your release agent in thin layers allowing the release agent to cure on the surface of all :~$ynth mold system parts. If you are unsure if your release agent manufacturer uses this active ingredient please contact their technical staff for clarification.  Known and tested Polysiloxane mold release agents in the United States are:  ReleaSys 78 (Aerosol) & Alumilite UMR (Aerosol).  Mann Ease Release 200 (Aerosol) may also be used although effectiveness is subject to coating thickness and may cause cure inhibition.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: OfTheWild on Wed, 06 December 2017, 22:04:39
Very cool, thanks for doing all the leg-work to source the information. I know you mentioned before that you're working on trying to get some kind of product from Miller-stephenson for our use? Is that happening relatively soon or should I just stick with the easily available Alumilite from amazon?

I finally decided to jump on in and grab a latest version. it really is such a great way to avoid some of the problems and frustrations of doing this the old fashioned way. :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 11 December 2017, 20:36:00
Very cool, thanks for doing all the leg-work to source the information. I know you mentioned before that you're working on trying to get some kind of product from Miller-stephenson for our use? Is that happening relatively soon or should I just stick with the easily available Alumilite from amazon?

I finally decided to jump on in and grab a latest version. it really is such a great way to avoid some of the problems and frustrations of doing this the old fashioned way. :thumb:

We should have something sorted out within the next two weeks.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: OfTheWild on Fri, 15 December 2017, 20:55:38
Very cool, thanks for doing all the leg-work to source the information. I know you mentioned before that you're working on trying to get some kind of product from Miller-stephenson for our use? Is that happening relatively soon or should I just stick with the easily available Alumilite from amazon?

I finally decided to jump on in and grab a latest version. it really is such a great way to avoid some of the problems and frustrations of doing this the old fashioned way. :thumb:

We should have something sorted out within the next two weeks.

Cool cool, i'll hold off on ordering then and wait for your announcement
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: avid on Fri, 22 December 2017, 22:22:06
Hello,

I'm very new to the artisan scene and i learned that you made the artisan with the mustasch which i like very much.

I do wonder, where can i find info about upcoming sales and how are these made? Is it raffle, fcfs and are you able to chose keycap or is it random?

Thanks!

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 23 December 2017, 11:48:02
Hello,

I'm very new to the artisan scene and i learned that you made the artisan with the mustasch which i like very much.

I do wonder, where can i find info about upcoming sales and how are these made? Is it raffle, fcfs and are you able to chose keycap or is it random?

Thanks!



Hello,

This thread is specifically for discussion relating to the :~$ynth product, https://techkeys.us/collections/accessories/products/synth

Please check out https://hungerwork.studio/apps/help-center which will answer a lot of common questions like raffles and sales :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: NNIH on Tue, 20 March 2018, 09:04:47
Is it impossible to make a silicon mold of Cherry Keycap?

I tried to fit a cherry keycap into a synth, but I checked that it doesn't fit properly.

SA Profile fit

cherry, oem Profile is doesn't fit?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: dgneo on Tue, 20 March 2018, 09:33:14
Is it impossible to make a silicon mold of Cherry Keycap?

I tried to fit a cherry keycap into a synth, but I checked that it doesn't fit properly.

SA Profile fit

cherry, oem Profile is doesn't fit?

Chances are you need to trim underneath the keycap, like so:

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

I've no issues using Cherry profile caps once those pieces have been removed.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: NNIH on Tue, 20 March 2018, 10:09:20
Thanks.
I'll try it tomorrow.



Is it impossible to make a silicon mold of Cherry Keycap?

I tried to fit a cherry keycap into a synth, but I checked that it doesn't fit properly.

SA Profile fit

cherry, oem Profile is doesn't fit?

Chances are you need to trim underneath the keycap, like so:

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/UoZYjEp.png)


I've no issues using Cherry profile caps once those pieces have been removed.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 21 March 2018, 12:33:34
Is it impossible to make a silicon mold of Cherry Keycap?

I tried to fit a cherry keycap into a synth, but I checked that it doesn't fit properly.

SA Profile fit

cherry, oem Profile is doesn't fit?

Chances are you need to trim underneath the keycap, like so:

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/UoZYjEp.png)


I've no issues using Cherry profile caps once those pieces have been removed.

TYVM dgneo, this is absolutely correct.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 13 September 2018, 14:53:41
Updated post 1 with new info. Necro necro necromancy~
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: AuthenticDanger on Thu, 13 September 2018, 15:16:42
Since this is a new product, maybe it's time to change the name so that it's not harder to remember than a bank password. I'm guessing that in the past the name was kept for continuity between the versions, but this product is so different than v1 and v2 that maybe it's time to think about branding again. It's already colloquially known as the "Synth" so maybe just embrace that and make it easy to find.

It would also be helpful to explain what the parts are and which you need as a first time customer/returning customer.

Clearly you have your own goals/marketing plan, so I'm just throwing out ideas from the customer perspective that might help consumers.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 9999hp on Thu, 13 September 2018, 15:47:18
New project looks exciting, looking forward to launch. Salvun machines some pretty stuff.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 14 September 2018, 10:31:24
Since this is a new product, maybe it's time to change the name so that it's not harder to remember than a bank password. I'm guessing that in the past the name was kept for continuity between the versions, but this product is so different than v1 and v2 that maybe it's time to think about branding again. It's already colloquially known as the "Synth" so maybe just embrace that and make it easy to find.

It would also be helpful to explain what the parts are and which you need as a first time customer/returning customer.

Clearly you have your own goals/marketing plan, so I'm just throwing out ideas from the customer perspective that might help consumers.

I really don't have a lot of plans other than to keep the project moving.  Thank you for your suggestions.  I will take your observations in mind while determining how best to use my time on the project.

The :~$ynth is a tool to assist creatives by providing a standard series of controls in which to create masters and simplify the casting process of master quality keys.

The name is derived from a couple concepts used to describe fundamental control in a few areas of interest.  I've seen sudo/superuser prompts as :~$, and musically a synth is a broad term for tools which can be used to output a variety of wave-forms by tweaking various basic parameters.

A description of the parts and their use in the system is intended to be well documented.  Please watch the crappy videos if you are at all curious how it works.  Enough has been spelled out if you understand casting.  It's nothing amazing which will explain molding to someone who has never cast before, but it will vaguely help you understand what can be accomplished until myself or my collaborators have time to really spell it all out.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: HOBI3CAT on Tue, 18 September 2018, 14:05:12
Any sort of timeline of when we can expect these items to start being in stock? I know salvun has been working on some of the parts recently (his IG is very active, which I definitely appreciate!)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Tue, 18 September 2018, 17:48:53
Will you start offering stem inserts other then the standard MX now that all of the parts are purchasable à la carte?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Tue, 18 September 2018, 21:44:50
Will you start offering stem inserts other then the standard MX now that all of the parts are purchasable à la carte?

The parts are still a bulk purchase for all vendors involved.  The à la carte system is made for the benefit of the buyers to where you could order only the parts you want from the set.  If you only use 2 bases, 1 stem, and several box parts, it doesn't make sense to buy several complete sets and have excess tools.

As for plans with the stems- I still believe flexible material makes better plugs for topre or alps.  If you put an alps stem into a synth and mold the pin, you will get an alps stem pin to use with your synth.

Any sort of timeline of when we can expect these items to start being in stock? I know salvun has been working on some of the parts recently (his IG is very active, which I definitely appreciate!)

I don't think it's appropriate to announce a time-frame until the vendors have taken them in stock, but you're doing all the right stuff to keep informed of how the production is moving along.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sun, 28 October 2018, 17:45:42
https://techkeys.us/products/synth?mc_cid=56bae52b35&mc_eid=623e3b434f

It's up up up and away!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: rmendis on Sun, 28 October 2018, 17:48:26
https://techkeys.us/products/synth?mc_cid=56bae52b35&mc_eid=623e3b434f

It's up up up and away!

Congrats on the launch, @Binge and team!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Eldr1tch on Fri, 23 November 2018, 06:02:23
Any idea when new stock of the base will be in?

You have literally every part in stock but the base.. which seems not very useful to those looking to buy? Is there any point in having the rest of the pieces without the base?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 9999hp on Fri, 23 November 2018, 09:01:27
Any idea when new stock of the base will be in?

You have literally every part in stock but the base.. which seems not very useful to those looking to buy? Is there any point in having the rest of the pieces without the base?

I don't see the point of not selling all those other things for people who wish to buy them separately.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Eldr1tch on Fri, 23 November 2018, 11:27:01
Any idea when new stock of the base will be in?

You have literally every part in stock but the base.. which seems not very useful to those looking to buy? Is there any point in having the rest of the pieces without the base?

I don't see the point of not selling all those other things for people who wish to buy them separately.

You are absolutely correct. I'm just salty because I missed out. Thank you for calling me out on my BS.  :thumb:
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: drekfoo on Fri, 23 November 2018, 11:45:57
if you are keeping up to date with the project, salvun is already working on a whole new batch of $ynths so just be patient, it's totally worth it.

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: AuthenticDanger on Fri, 23 November 2018, 12:18:26
Any idea when new stock of the base will be in?

You have literally every part in stock but the base.. which seems not very useful to those looking to buy? Is there any point in having the rest of the pieces without the base?

I don't see the point of not selling all those other things for people who wish to buy them separately.

You are absolutely correct. I'm just salty because I missed out. Thank you for calling me out on my BS.  :thumb:

It wasn't BS. They overproduced the non-base parts thinking more people would want extra parts and things in this community go OOS and there's usually no real timeline on restock. It's a common frustration.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 9999hp on Mon, 26 November 2018, 08:37:15
Any idea when new stock of the base will be in?

You have literally every part in stock but the base.. which seems not very useful to those looking to buy? Is there any point in having the rest of the pieces without the base?

I don't see the point of not selling all those other things for people who wish to buy them separately.

You are absolutely correct. I'm just salty because I missed out. Thank you for calling me out on my BS.  :thumb:

Salt is our way of life :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 17 December 2018, 11:23:13
Any idea when new stock of the base will be in?

You have literally every part in stock but the base.. which seems not very useful to those looking to buy? Is there any point in having the rest of the pieces without the base?

I don't see the point of not selling all those other things for people who wish to buy them separately.

You are absolutely correct. I'm just salty because I missed out. Thank you for calling me out on my BS.  :thumb:

Production takes time and I appreciate any patience you can maintain!  Please be assured that before stock was sold out more were already being made.  Everything slows down around this time of year, and the store will be restocked within a couple weeks.  It's really wonderful the turn around times are getting to be so tight when production is happening in Belgium.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 22 July 2019, 09:56:36
Hey!

I'm trying to get this topic going again as a source of support and information regarding the :~$ynth and its releases.  Salvun and I are attempting to produce some more documentation for the product, and we'd like to also get feedback from user experience to help improve further iterations of the product.

I'll be posting here more regularly regarding any information I can think of as the time permits.

Thank you, fans and makers, for supporting this project.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Mon, 22 July 2019, 13:57:22
Binge, I just got back from vacation and TechKeys are sold out. Any idea when they will get a resupply?

Also I might as well ask while I'm here. My current sculpt is on a synth2. When I go to mold it I will have to do a 2 part (or 3 if you count the synth) mold because of it's height and shape. So with the 3 I can always use the base without the mold box, but how hard is it to do a 2 or 3 part mold in the mold box. Also I do bake my sculpts when I have to do multi-part molds so they can be separated from other clay easily.

I'm attaching an example that is just sculpted on a cap so you can see what I mean about needing the multi-part molds.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: skejwen on Fri, 26 July 2019, 08:46:45
Hey Binge. I asked earlier this year about base without milled holes, dedicated just for making moulds. Also higher box option would be nice, coz I found out that current one in some projects its too low and key barely is covered by silicone, and its always better to have bigger margin than a half of milimeter. Tutorial/hints on how to clear it from resin residue, that are most commonly used, would be nice. Other than that synth is perfect as it is :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 08 August 2019, 11:12:07

Binge, I just got back from vacation and TechKeys are sold out. Any idea when they will get a resupply?

Also I might as well ask while I'm here. My current sculpt is on a synth2. When I go to mold it I will have to do a 2 part (or 3 if you count the synth) mold because of it's height and shape. So with the 3 I can always use the base without the mold box, but how hard is it to do a 2 or 3 part mold in the mold box. Also I do bake my sculpts when I have to do multi-part molds so they can be separated from other clay easily.

I'm attaching an example that is just sculpted on a cap so you can see what I mean about needing the multi-part molds.

The mold box is pretty utilitarian in its height as it works for most normal sculpts and blanks in mind.  For custom mold heights I would suggest using legos to create larger walls.  The synth's key registration will work just as well as if it had a mold box, but this will require you use a bit more silicone to create your molds.  You should only need a two part mold to complete this.  For most any 3 dimensional object two parts should be all you need to create something which can be demolded.  I'd like to expand on this, but using the tool to create molds will give you the best lessons.  Please don't be afraid to hop back in here with some pictures or questions after moving a bit further along.

Hey Binge. I asked earlier this year about base without milled holes, dedicated just for making moulds. Also higher box option would be nice, coz I found out that current one in some projects its too low and key barely is covered by silicone, and its always better to have bigger margin than a half of milimeter. Tutorial/hints on how to clear it from resin residue, that are most commonly used, would be nice. Other than that synth is perfect as it is :)

We are working on a dedicated sculpting base without the holes.  If your key is too short for the box, please just create a box from legos.  The base is measured to be built around.  Lego mold boxes are common in all kinds of casting and tutorials/techniques for those boxes are available all over the web.  The mold box height is carefully created for those who wish to save on silicone costs when producing caps within a very generous margin of space.

The best way to clean up a mold of resin residue is to use a good mold release.  Without release there is no great solution for cleaning molds.  Silicone at a level is porous and once resin embeds itself it's impossible to remove even when dissolved.  This is because it will simply work its way further into the mold.  High quality releases prevent this interaction from happening with your molds and as a result expands the life of your molds. If you live CONUS, I sell mold releases on my website which make this very easy.

https://hungerwork.studio/collections/resin-casting-products
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 14 August 2019, 14:15:27
(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/363724533204779009/611253381776015400/IMG_20190814_134225.jpg?width=1005&height=754)

Soon Hunger Work Studio will be releasing the Synth 3.1 with improved fitment for lower profile keys, OEM and GMK stem depths, and the option for bases to be made without alignment notches.

The process will be a group buy run through https://hungerwork.studio/ where units can be purchased for production.  Our goal will be to meet MOQ of 20 units or more.

Production time for MOQ will be 3 weeks, and an additional week for every 20 units.

Any number of parts can be ordered.

Parts include,

Base in OEM or GMK stem depth & with or without alignment notches, custom laser engraving for makers marks upon request with an adequate mono-color vectorized graphic.
Stems
Box Set

Pricing TBA


Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Thu, 15 August 2019, 21:21:53
Show Image
(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/363724533204779009/611253381776015400/IMG_20190814_134225.jpg?width=1005&height=754)


Soon Hunger Work Studio will be releasing the Synth 3.1 with improved fitment for lower profile keys, OEM and GMK stem depths, and the option for bases to be made without alignment notches.

The process will be a group buy run through https://hungerwork.studio/ where units can be purchased for production.  Our goal will be to meet MOQ of 20 units or more.

Production time for MOQ will be 3 weeks, and an additional week for every 20 units.

Any number of parts can be ordered.

Parts include,

Base in OEM or GMK stem depth & with or without alignment notches, custom laser engraving for makers marks upon request with an adequate mono-color vectorized graphic.
Stems
Box Set

Pricing TBA

It sounds like these are just slight modifications to the bases and that the new bases will be compatible with the 3.0 mold box? It defiantly sounds like it and from the photo looks like it, is that in fact the intent? Either way I am placing my order for a full set 3.0 and I might need to get a few extra bases as I have several sculpts going right now and I just work on which ever one I'm inspired to work on that day. I'm also not real good at it yet so I'm slow and constantly fixing goof-ups. Practice makes better but never perfect.

Thanks for this update and all the work you put into this project!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 15 August 2019, 23:30:26
It sounds like these are just slight modifications to the bases and that the new bases will be compatible with the 3.0 mold box?

Yes the new bases are fully cross compatible with old tooling.  The only thing bases will change is the height of the inner ceiling of the cap.

It defiantly sounds like it and from the photo looks like it, is that in fact the intent?

Yes.  Having people suddenly change their tooling because of updates is not my idea of a great time.  Love supporters and makers.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: do_Og@n on Fri, 16 August 2019, 16:47:02
Would love to get my hands on one of these!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Sat, 17 August 2019, 10:11:06
Thanks Binge!

My 3.0 has been ordered.

Here is a preview of what is on my 2.0 though.

[attach=1]

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Wed, 21 August 2019, 11:57:14
Thanks for your responses and support.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Fri, 06 September 2019, 09:10:49
https://hungerwork.studio/collections

Eat your heart out!
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 9999hp on Thu, 19 September 2019, 12:49:17
Bought what I could afford; extremely stoked.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Thu, 19 September 2019, 13:08:25
Bought what I could afford; extremely stoked.

Happy to serve!  Hit us up if you have any questions at all.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 9999hp on Mon, 18 November 2019, 14:40:57
Are orders still going out/being made? I imagine there are a lot of orders.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Mon, 25 November 2019, 11:29:18
Are orders still going out/being made? I imagine there are a lot of orders.

The orders were put on hold in Oct, fulfillment/shipping is estimated in Dec.
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: NUDEcnc on Sat, 28 December 2019, 10:30:28
Hi Guys
I have not been here for a while but I hope some of you still remember me. I just posted a video on YouTube about CNC machining of the :~$ynth 1.0
I thought you may enjoy it!

https://youtu.be/6aGA7CuGwoo (https://youtu.be/6aGA7CuGwoo)

Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: nathanchere on Sat, 28 December 2019, 12:45:58
*watching thread to avoid missing out again*
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: 9999hp on Thu, 06 February 2020, 15:51:29
Any updates?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: Binge on Sat, 29 February 2020, 14:58:43
Any updates?

Yeah!  The Synths made it here, were sent out, and remaining units are posted to https://hungerwork.studio :)
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: retoid on Mon, 14 December 2020, 13:38:37
Is there any plans to have more of these made in the near future?
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: LightningXI on Mon, 14 December 2020, 13:45:15
Is there any plans to have more of these made in the near future?

Not sure when a rerun/restock is scheduled, but the :~$ynth is stocked by TechKeys -- https://techkeys.us/products/synth?variant=20361239748 and made/stocked by Salvun -- https://salvun.com/collections/featured/products/synth-3-2
Title: Re: :~$ynth
Post by: retoid on Mon, 14 December 2020, 13:57:05
Is there any plans to have more of these made in the near future?

Not sure when a rerun/restock is scheduled, but the :~$ynth is stocked by TechKeys -- https://techkeys.us/products/synth?variant=20361239748 and made/stocked by Salvun -- https://salvun.com/collections/featured/products/synth-3-2

Thank you, yeah I found both of those sites from searching around and both are sold out. I did find another place that had a couple of the pieces for sale. But I am personally interested in the whole set.
Ordered one of those L2K-MX-03: Casting Adapter lego pieces from Shapeways the other day and will start with that. Have a lot of learning to do, but I've been wanting to get into resin casting for some time now. This looks like a fun hobby and a fun way to be creative.