geekhack

geekhack Community => Keyboard Keycaps => Topic started by: Koggiri on Thu, 24 April 2014, 13:43:43

Title: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: Koggiri on Thu, 24 April 2014, 13:43:43: Hello :) I recently bought a blank HHKB pro 2, and I'm having trouble using the number row.

I don't have a problem with the rest of the keys, but I have never touch typed the number row before and I'm having trouble getting used to it (especially the ones near the right pinky). What would be the best way to temporarily write/tape/glue something onto the keycap until I get used to it?
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: pbtforever on Thu, 24 April 2014, 15:09:59: Blue Paint masking tape.
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: Puddsy on Thu, 24 April 2014, 16:20:48: Don't use blue tape.

Labels actually exist, although not for your specific purpose. They're made for tween girls to trick out their laptop keyboards.
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: ekw808 on Thu, 24 April 2014, 16:26:52: Use a different colored key for 1 and 0, and work off of that.
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: rowdy on Thu, 24 April 2014, 20:43:26: Welcome to Geekhack!

I'd try two layers of sticky tape and a Sharpie.

Write the legends on the first layer, then stick another layer over the top so you don't rub them off.

Probably make the tape long enough to wrap under the sides of the keycaps.
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Fri, 25 April 2014, 14:55:18: I suggest waterslide decals, and put them on the front side not the top. You can get waterslide paper that works in inkjet/laser printer and can make the labels in any font or color your printer can do. They can look as nice as a manufactured product, and they can last a pretty long time as side print even without a clear coat, and are easy enough to remove when you don't want them there anymore.
If you have white caps, you could use dry transfers instead. You can find them in many different font styles and sizes. They are also easy to apply and remove. As with waterslides they are not super durable so side placement is also advised there.
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: mason on Fri, 25 April 2014, 17:40:56: What ekw808 said. I put one on 1, 5, 0.
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: Koggiri on Sat, 26 April 2014, 00:38:49: Thanks for the suggestions!

I put a little piece of masking tape on numbers 1 and 0, it's helping me immensely. :thumb:
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: mickyman on Fri, 02 May 2014, 15:12:07: Quote from: pbtforever on Thu, 24 April 2014, 15:09:59
Blue Paint masking tape.
I did that, it was cool
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: aref on Fri, 02 May 2014, 17:28:15: There are many key-cap decals on ebay for about $18 a set. They are sold in different colors. Here's one listing:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mechanical-Keyboard-Cherry-MX-Keycap-Key-cap-Vinyl-Decals-023-/171129093175?pt=PCA_Mice_Trackballs&hash=item27d816bc37
Title: Re: Temporary labels for blank keycaps
Post by: James35 on Thu, 15 May 2014, 23:52:37: That's actually kind of cool. IvanIvanovich, I like your suggestion on the front of the keys instead of the top side.