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geekhack Community => Keyboard Keycaps => Topic started by: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 10:17:54

Title: Dye ABS caps
Post by: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 10:17:54
Alright guys I know PBT caps do get dyed around here.  The problem that I have seen (I have not personally dyed any caps) is the legends on dye subbed keys get all funny due to the hot water and the chemicals in the dye.  The seem to bleed a bit.  I believe to have found a method to dye abs caps, and was wondering if any of you folks have tried this method.


Fair warning this involves the use of acetone at proper mixed fairly weak concentrations.  I do realize there is a possibility of destroying the caps but I am planning on getting a grab bag or 2 on the next round from SP to have plenty to practice on.
Title: Re: Dye ABS caps
Post by: RESPRiT on Mon, 24 February 2014, 10:19:56
I'm really interested in any input anyone has for this, although I can't help but feel a bit pessimistic towards the effectiveness of the dying and the practicality of the methodology. Regardless, though, it's always great to experiment and try new things! :D
Title: Re: Dye ABS caps
Post by: fohat.digs on Mon, 24 February 2014, 14:50:37
Didn't this same idea come around here a few months ago?

25% acetone and rinse quickly?
Title: Re: Dye ABS caps
Post by: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 15:35:26
Quote from: fohat.digs on Mon, 24 February 2014, 14:50:37
Didn't this same idea come around here a few months ago?

25% acetone and rinse quickly?

If it did I missed that one.  I wonder if someone here has any first hand experience with it.
Title: Re: Dye ABS caps
Post by: fohat.digs on Mon, 24 February 2014, 15:38:44
Quote from: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 15:35:26

If it did I missed that one.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=39100.msg997889#msg997889
Title: Re: Dye ABS caps
Post by: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 15:43:33
thanks for the link fohat.  I am going to practice on some caps from the SP grab bags.
Title: Re: Dye ABS caps
Post by: fohat.digs on Mon, 24 February 2014, 16:23:45
Quote from: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 15:43:33
I am going to practice on some caps from the SP grab bags.

Grab a couple of $1 keyboards from a thrift store and practice on those. I would especially be interested whether it works on the case shell.
Title: Re: Dye ABS caps
Post by: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 16:27:31
Quote from: fohat.digs on Mon, 24 February 2014, 16:23:45
Quote from: Melvang on Mon, 24 February 2014, 15:43:33
I am going to practice on some caps from the SP grab bags.

Grab a couple of $1 keyboards from a thrift store and practice on those. I would especially be interested whether it works on the case shell.

Will have to keep an eye out for the white ones.  I have to go to cedar rapids Thursday for some contractor orientation stuff son I will check out the local e-recycler.  I have picked up a couple terminal boards there for $3 with blacks