clickclack's custom keycaps =)

[clickclack]

I would definitely be interested in a complete set (or two) of keycaps for the HHKB (Pro, of course).  One of my biggest pet peeves is that you can't get white keycaps with all the keys the same color...the modifier keys are always grayish.  What I want is a white set for the HHKB.  Of course, I'd be interested in some of the caps having some custom design and/or bright colored esc and WASD keys.  

If you were able to do printing, that would be cool (imagine the URL for geekhack on the front side of the space bar).  

I will keep you posted on their availability, thanks for the interest =)
I really like the idea of having "geekhack" or "geekhack.org" on the spacebar!!!
When I get the time soon I think I will have to try a prototype of that! =)

Glad my silly suggestion served as inspiration  Now that I think about it, clear keys with emerald green legends would be pretty neat.  If I could convert my wife to mechanicals (she's stuck on domes and scissors), I would give her a set and refer to it as "jewelry".

haahaa,
Every once in a while I give someone in my family a new keyboard to try (it's usually my mom, she is more open minded) and she asked if I could make a jeweled board. She thinks the young girls (and her) would like them. But I don't even want to think about that right now =P

Edit: just put up some old pics of the now gone early prototypes illuminated on a TG3.

[Specter_57]

..

Sighhh...so that pic I was commenting on...all the keys are plastic.

Ok...that's twice now I've put my foot in my mouth  haha.




...............
Spec_57

[clickclack]

..
Sighhh...so that pic I was commenting on...all the keys are plastic.
Ok...that's twice now I've put my foot in my mouth  haha.

Hahaa, no worries

Edit: more pics posted and descriptions (illuminated keycaps)

[Half-Saint]

Sign me up for some colored model M keycaps, please!

[nowsharing]

This model M keycap was dual molded in black and red for that cute menacing look, haahaa =)

Yes please! Egg shell white looks like a winner too.

Have you considered doing double-shot arrow keys? I read that you're not focusing on keys with legends right now, but I would think the arrows and maybe number pad keys would be hot sellers. I just bought a cherry G80 loaded with a lot of ugly relegendable caps, and I'd love to replace them with some of your creations.

[clickclack]

Sign me up for some colored model M keycaps, please!

Noted! =)

You are a click teaser. Slowly revealing your prototypes. We want the real thing! It fits nicely with my skull helmet.

I am not! You take that back ;P
I love that Darth Vader helmet on the left side of the picture, haahaa!
Will it ease your anxiousness if I make a "super special limited ultra-rare uber duper webwit edition keycap" Hmmm... =D

Yes please! Egg shell white looks like a winner too.
Have you considered doing double-shot arrow keys? I read that you're not focusing on keys with legends right now, but I would think the arrows and maybe number pad keys would be hot sellers. I just bought a cherry G80 loaded with a lot of ugly relegendable caps, and I'd love to replace them with some of your creations.

I dig the eggshell white too =) I am working on some other interesting white ones too.
As far as the keys with legends, I have prototypes that have arrows and similar, and I am testing them in dual molded form also (as I too figured that it would be of interest to others). However what you read was correct by and large, I am not focusing on legends right now. That may or may not change in the near future.
Thanks for your interest and feed back it's much appreciated and helpful =)

And just as a heads up I will be uploading more pics and descriptions tomorrow =)

[clickclack]

That would make me a happy duck

Haahaa, just keep your fingers crossed


EDIT:
Just updated more pics and descriptions. The "SPLAT" dual molded key and another colored original key, with more to come soon =)

[Oqsy]

Interesting a Vader helmet comes up in this thread... While I'm not interested in the Skull caps, I would *LOVE* a Lord Vader ESC key, post haste!

[clickclack]

Interesting a Vader helmet comes up in this thread... While I'm not interested in the Skull caps, I would *LOVE* a Lord Vader ESC key, post haste!

HAAHAA!!! That would be bad ass! Hmmm... =D

EDIT: just posted more pics and descriptions

[nowsharing]

Dual shot splat keys...you're the evil type of genius aren't you

[iMav]

Dual shot splat keys...you're the evil type of genius aren't you

Those are cool-looking.

Hey ClickClack...any idea when you are going to define what you will be selling this first go around?  You've shown us so much, I can't imagine it is logistically possible to do it all (at least not cost-effectively).  

I'm definitely looking forward to whatever I can get for my HHKB (and some Cherry keys for my Filco)

[Rajagra]

Haha, I was talking in another thread about a double shot design for generic Windows/Command/Meta use. I think you've nailed it with the splat key. Keep it up.

[kriminal]

one question, seeing as the filco keycaps tend to be a tad taller than its cherry uncle  kbs, will you making filco caps? or just plain cherry height caps.

dont mind cherry caps as i have double shots on my filco, so if they match in height it will be golden,
i just asked the question out of curiousity

[clickclack]

Dual shot splat keys...you're the evil type of genius aren't you

Heehee, MUUUAAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAA! =P
just wait...

Those are cool-looking.
Hey ClickClack...any idea when you are going to define what you will be selling this first go around?  You've shown us so much, I can't imagine it is logistically possible to do it all (at least not cost-effectively).  
I'm definitely looking forward to whatever I can get for my HHKB (and some Cherry keys for my Filco)

Thanks for the compliment =)
I am currently testing which ones will be the quickest to get started on. This is basically what I have been working on this week as well as waiting for new material to arrive. I will let you guys know soon, I hope to announce within the next week and a half which will be the first types available. I am focusing more heavily on popular boards at the moment.

As far as to whats possible, I have been designing molding techniques for these keycaps and boards for over 8 months now with heavy, heavy emphasis on diversity and innovation. The more interest people have in them the more possible they become =)

Haha, I was talking in another thread about a double shot design for generic Windows/Command/Meta use. I think you've nailed it with the splat key. Keep it up.

Sweet! Better lucky than good I suppose =P hahaa

one question, seeing as the filco keycaps tend to be a tad taller than its cherry uncle  kbs, will you making filco caps? or just plain cherry height caps.

dont mind cherry caps as i have double shots on my filco, so if they match in height it will be golden,
i just asked the question out of curiousity

I plan on making both! =)
My initial prototype efforts months ago were more cherry keyboard based (although not cherry specifically). However the newer cherry switch compatible prototypes are based more closely on the filco key profile. As well as making blank true to profile keys for the Filco boards. My keys are thicker, more robust, and a little bit heavier though.

Thanks for all the interest everyone =)

EDIT: more pics and descriptions will be updated later today, its snooze time soon =P

[o2dazone]

Holy Hell, those splat keys made me realize how empty my life is without them. Giev

[clickclack]

Holy Hell, those splat keys made me realize how empty my life is without them. Giev

Haaahaa, that's classic! =D
I just did a few more tests with them, I will upload the photos to them in the next couple of days. =)

I have really been focusing on the model M and HHKB this week and I am reasonably confident I will be doing "ALL" the keys on the HHKB pro II.

I will upload some more dual molded keys later tonight.

[clickclack]

I just posted pics of two more dual molded keys and a comparison photo of some of the previously seen keys on one board.

I think I am going to start up another contest again soon =D
I really enjoyed doing that first one a while back. Geeez, its been about 7 months since that first one! Gosh does time fly :S

I guess I should get back to testing more keys tonight...
=)

[HaaTa]

I wonder what keycaps made of Ivorine would be like. Used for piano keys.

Ooooo, I'd be interested in that!

[Rajagra]

"Ivorine" AKA Cellulose Nitrate.

They used to use it in pool balls.  Dangerous stuff.

If you type so hard that your keycaps explode, you may be bottoming out too much.

[o2dazone]

Just wanted to double check, these aren't for sale yet right? I just like skimming through the photos, and I don't know how to read. I don't want to miss out on any ultra limited runs.

[painbird]

very nice!! waiting...

[clickclack]

If you type so hard that your keycaps explode, you may be bottoming out too much.

Well you can forget my C4 keycaps then =P

Just wanted to double check, these aren't for sale yet right? I just like skimming through the photos, and I don't know how to read. I don't want to miss out on any ultra limited runs.

Haahaaa, correct these keys are not yet ready for sale. I will keep everyone posted with availability =)
I have also been keeping a tally of everyone who has been interested (you are included).

very nice!! waiting...

Thanks =)
I will be heavily working on some of them this week to do a couple first run tests. Crosses fingers!

[Mnemonix]

Cool stuff! I might be interested in a full set or two for a Model M Mini (US).

Thick caps for Escape, F and J (or T and N in my case), and low profile ones for the rest of them, if possible.

[clickclack]

Cool stuff! I might be interested in a full set or two for a Model M Mini (US).
Thick caps for Escape, F and J (or T and N in my case), and low profile ones for the rest of them, if possible.

Thanks =)
That sounds like nice combo too!
I have many prototypes done for the Model M and I am currently working on masters for the limited production runs.
Thanks for the interest, I will continue to keep everyone posted =)

[clickclack]

By popular demand I just uploaded more dual molded splat keys. I am also working on a commision with them at the moment and I will hopefully post pics of those soon too.

I have also been neglecting to go to the other studio recently where I have the other key designs. So sometimes later this week I hope to show you guys some of those.

I still have some more dual molded ones to post later today, and some other metal and metallic ones.

Enjoy

EDIT: For the members and guests that are following this thread (and the older review thread) that have purchased the original FIRST batch prototypes(P), recent tests(T), and all commissions(C) please feel free to reference P,T, and or C respectively when replying to your tally number and test order request.

[iMav]

Love the splat keys.  

If you are loosely keeping track of demand, here is what I'd be willing to purchase:

HHKB Pro
Complete set of all white keys
A couple of red Esc keys (possibly with the yet-to-be-disclosed GH design)
Red splat on white for WASD
Red splat on black for WASD

Filco "mini"
Red splat on black for WASD


Would also be interested in different splat colors on white and black for the HHKB and on black for the Filco.

[Rajagra]

These are like an ink blot test. On the white keys I see a dog, an orgy, and a footprint.

[itlnstln]

That middle one looks more like the shocker.  Rorschach would be proud.

[clickclack]

Love the splat keys.  
If you are loosely keeping track of demand, here is what I'd be willing to purchase:....

Thanks =)
Indeed I am keeping track, and I appreciate that you mentioned what you are interested in, that helps a bit at this point in time =)

These are like an ink blot test. On the white keys I see a dog, an orgy, and a footprint.

Haahaaaa!!! Classic! Dog, orgy, and footprint! =D
In the first splat picture uploaded my friend saw a "discus thrower".

That middle one looks more like the shocker.  Rorschach would be proud.

I just looked up what that mean't (kinda wishing I didn't) and now we are moving on... =P
If you look at the bottom right white key with black splat I had the Rorschach inkblot in mind =)

Let me try the Finnish Joke again since the Finnish dude didn't like it...
I think it's those long winter nights......

Hmmm... that's just not right, not right at all... XD


EDIT: My quotes, updates, prototype work, and master molds will be delayed and spotty this week as a sudden and tragic event will be needing my attention and focus this week.
Sorry and thank you all for your continued patience, I really appreciate it.

[TheSoulhunter]

WANT...
Add 3 red/black, and 2 red/white WASD sets for MX/Filco to my list! =)

[itlnstln]

I hope everything is well is you and your family, clickclack.

[o2dazone]

Good luck with any of your troubles, don't worry about us, we'll be here when you get back

[clickclack]

WANT...
Add 3 red/black, and 2 red/white WASD sets for MX/Filco to my list! =)

Gottit! =)
I really need to update my tally XD

I hope everything is well is you and your family, clickclack.

Good luck with any of your troubles, don't worry about us, we'll be here when you get back

Thank you

I kinda have to play catchup this week, as my schedule and I are still a bit outta whack. But I just sent out a very small preliminary batch of Topre/HHKB and cherry compatible keycaps to the first two skull keycap recipients for feedback. So we shall see =)
I think I messed up the tolerances on the HHKB/Topre keys though, they fit way too snug!

I have not gone into my CP yet but it took me forever for find this thread! Hahaaa =P

EDIT: Just posted two new dual molded skull styles, with many more key types and designs to come.

[InSanCen]

Can you post an individual macro shot of one of these? lower angle, I want to get a handle on how raised the profile is.

Still want to fit an M though... ;-P

[NOMiS]

:jaw: I would looove these for WASD. Would looks sick on a blank Filco.

[clickclack]

I want one or two of most designs I guess, depending on price and availability

Thanks for the interest =D

Show Image

Can you post an individual macro shot of one of these? lower angle, I want to get a handle on how raised the profile is.
Still want to fit an M though... ;-P

Sure thing and I have master prototypes in this low profile (flat) skull for the Model M already.
Here is a macro low angle shot. The raised image is about half the thickness of the average business card. So thats about .16mm or .006", basically 1.5x the thickness of typing paper. (the pic is from an early prototype)



=)

[clickclack]

:jaw: I would looove these for WASD. Would looks sick on a blank Filco.

Haahaa, Thanks =)
They do indeed look great on a blank Filco and I will have them available for Filco boards.

I am working on a commission right now for "SPLAT" legends and "SPLAT" skulls. I will post a couple pics of those a bit later.

[InSanCen]

Show Image

Perfect! I must have these.

When you get sorted out, PM me, and we'll work something out.

[clickclack]

Perfect! I must have these.
When you get sorted out, PM me, and we'll work something out.

Sorting as I type =)

Everyone who has expressed interest in one way or another (whether you like it or not, hahaa) has been updated to my tally.
This includes-
-all thread responses (that I have seen)
-all PM's
-all emails
-all past and present purchases
-all commissions past and present

The tally serves two purposes it helps me judge interest (like direction and priority) as well as providing an impromptu Pre-order list when things are available.

I am updating the first post right now with all of my previously posted pictures with descriptions.

more to come later today (new prototypes)...

[SpatiallyAware]

I'm unsure of the cost, I skimmed the thread.. Also curious how close the black is to Filco?

I am definitely interested in the splats for WASD on a black Filco..

After looking through all the pics:

3 - dark green splat alphabet keys.
2 - Windows key sized dark green splat

possibly 2 black skulls with red eyes Windows keys, depending on cost

[ricercar]

With an array of keys, you may wish to maintain an "order form" of your plans so we potential customers have a concrete idea of probable availability.
 
Example:

June 2010
__ black skull est $0.55 ea
__ Red skull est $0.55 ea
__ White skull est $0.60 ea
__ Blue skull est $0.63 ea

August 2030
__ Blue with white splat est $1.00 ea
__ White with red splat est $1.00 ea


At least for me, this would aid me in planning my orders.

[ricercar]

Shh. Psych warfare.

[soloz2]

I want me some splat keys!

[clickclack]

crap! Edit, edit, edit.... haahaa I had to change the quotes around because some posts were just edited and new ones have shown up...
its my fifth edit before posting haahaa
I will wait a few more moments... until the seas have settled =P
LOL

(I think that is the first time I have used "lol", it feels weird, dirty almost)

[kishy]

With an array of keys, you may wish to maintain an "order form" of your plans so we potential customers have a concrete idea of probable availability.
 
Example:

June 2010
__ black skull est $0.55 ea
__ Red skull est $0.55 ea
__ White skull est $0.60 ea
__ Blue skull est $0.63 ea

August 2030
__ Blue with white splat est $1.00 ea
__ White with red splat est $1.00 ea


At least for me, this would aid me in planning my orders.

Now this is some Kishy Approved Pricing™

[clickclack]

I'm unsure of the cost, I skimmed the thread.. Also curious how close the black is to Filco?

I am definitely interested in the splats for WASD on a black Filco..

After looking through all the pics:

3 - dark green splat alphabet keys.
2 - Windows key sized dark green splat

possibly 2 black skulls with red eyes Windows keys, depending on cost

Hi SpatiallyAware,
I have yet to post new prices, since things depend on the amount of time to make, complexity, number of molds, number of casts, materials, miss to hit ratio of casts, and prototype revisions... pheew!!! I think that's most of it =P

I am working as hard as I can to test and make things in a price to product ratio that will let me sleep at night. I will provide prices as soon as I can and as soon as more are in a less prototypical form.

As far as color matching goes, it's possible for me to pretty much match most colors but it can be difficult costly. I probably have more than 40 keyboards that use a different black! Eeek! :S
For the Filco board the black looks pretty much "at home" on the board, but I can further refine it if necessary. One thing that should be kept in mind though is that some keys have a coating and some have a different texture/sheen. And that can make keys look different even if they are a good match.

Your interest/request has been added to the tally and is doable =)
Thanks for your interest
=)

[clickclack]

With an array of keys, you may wish to maintain an "order form" of your plans so we potential customers have a concrete idea of probable availability.
...
.....At least for me, this would aid me in planning my orders.

I am getting closer to doing this, and if this was my only job I probably be doing that already. Balancing the previously mentioned things (my previous post) is however very difficult and I am a one man op. Custom orders throw things off in terms of timelines since I have to give priority to them or I would be flat broke
I also have to do a reasonably heavy amount of testing because I would be mortified if I sold poor quality items. That would just be unfair to everyone.

Again, I am trying to get to that point that you were suggesting, and I would like to adopt an outline similar to what you posted for probable availability times and prices.

sidenote:
I am working on an illustration commission right now, which is why I keep typing like crazy, feels great to lean back and type and not lean forward and sketch =P

[ricercar]

Thanks for the clarification. We're all eagerly awaiting your product.

[clickclack]

$1?
Lol.

Shh. Psych warfare.

Haahaa, I laughed so hard my cheeks hurt! Classic!
(the ones connected to my zygomaticus major, not me bum)

I want me some splat keys!

Thanks for the interest, added you to the tally

It's when you speak like this you know you've gone over the edge.

Nevagunna hppn, though I do like the "kthnxbai" at the end, very abrupt and to the point!

Now this is some Kishy Approved Pricing™

currently crying...

Edit: haahaa just saw the "trade mark" lolz!!!!

[clickclack]

I just updated the first post with what I am calling Ice keys or glass keys...
actually I don't know yet what I am calling them but ICE seems really appropriate

Geee, I wonder what key switch was used in the second pic, haahaa =P

These keys look insanely refreshing on a keyboard, I can wait to see one with all the keys done!


I just stared prototypes for "ALL KEYS" on the following boards-
-HHKB pro1 and Pro 2 (they will be the same)
-Topre Realforce 87u
I will be making spacebars that do "NOT" have a sharp edge to them on the HHKB and Realforce.
-Filco 104 and tenkeyless

I am still working on Model M keys. so far I only have prototypes of the standard keys and a couple larger ones. These are a bit more tricky so I am still working on designing them.

=)
EDIT: I had forgot to add the Filco 104 and tenkeyless to the above list! Whoops!