The coating over pad printed keycaps...

[blueangel2323]

Does anyone know what it is exactly? Some kind of UV-cured resin? Is it possible to DIY? Or are there DIY alternatives that are more durable?

[Nisei]

I'm also interested in this. Not to protect custom keys but because the way I type manages to mess up my backlit black keys (black painted transparent plastic) within a few months time.
A few years ago I was working in a factory where we printed tin cans (aerosols and paint cans) and after the sheets of tin were printed we put on a layer of special UV varnish which is very tough and scratch resistant.
I think I'm going to do some tests with transparent UV nail polish and cure it in one of those small curing lamps you can buy on eBay.

[Nisei]

Just remembered I had taken some of the UV coating when I quit the job.
Here it is applied to an old Pause key next to an untreated Scroll Lock key.
As you can see it's become shiny but I believe there was matte coating available as well.
I've cured it in a UV nail polish curer and it's become as hard as glass!
Mind you, O haven't done a really neat job here. When applied with an airbrush or better brush it would probably look better.
Looks like a very resistant protection layer to me.

[blueangel2323]

That's awesome! What is the coating called? Is it something the average person can buy?

[Nisei]

Unfortunately I can't check it anymore. I think it was industrial-only. We received it in large barrels.
However, I think UV cured nail polish clear top coat is about the same stuff. It's also meant to protect against scratch and wear and available everywhere.
https://www.nailsuperstore.com/nail-products/elfa-non-yellow-uv-top-coat-32-oz/49632

[cookie]

How about doubleshots with clear letters?