# 3D Printed Custom Keycaps ## Overview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ub4cb-u8EWA ## Custom Keycaps In this project we're 3D printing custom keycaps for mechical keyboards. This is a [mechanical](http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=881)[ keyboard with cherry mx switches](http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=881). It features a customizable layout and LED backlighting. It comes with extra keys which is really nice, but there's a lot of cool stuff you could do by 3D printing your own! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/148/medium800/hacks_hero-wide.jpg?1427733839) ## Easy to install These keycaps are held by a connector piece in the center of the key (stem) and it just easily snaps on. Perfect for customizing keys to match your typing style. You can even use any of our metal filaments like [copper](https://www.adafruit.com/products/2128) or [bronze](https://www.adafruit.com/products/1830) for creating a steam punk keyboard! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/208/medium800thumb/hacks_esc-key-attach.jpg?1448317323) ## Accessibility Raised letters makes for a great accessibilty project or even add hot key icons for your favorite apps! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/149/medium800thumb/hacks_feel-key.jpg?1448317284) ## Project Expectations This project is geared towards makers who have basic 3D printing skills and access to a 3D printer. The 3D parts were designed for small build platforms. Printing these parts can take up to 1 hour and about 2 grams of material. ## Parts Below is a full list of parts needed to build this project. Be sure to check out the featured products on the right sidebar. - [PLA Filament](https://www.adafruit.com/search?q=ninjaflex "Link: https://www.adafruit.com/search?q=ninjaflex") - [3D Printer](https://www.adafruit.com/search?q=3d+printer "Link: https://www.adafruit.com/search?q=3d+printer") - [Blue tape](https://www.adafruit.com/products/2416) ## Tools & Supplies You'll need a couple of hand tools and accessories to assist you in the build.  - [Flush diagonal cutter](https://www.adafruit.com/product/152) - [Knife jimmy](https://www.adafruit.com/products/2414), [Spatula](http://amzn.com/B00409PJGW) or [Palette Knife](http://amzn.com/B00DUI6E7C)  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/253/medium800/hacks_caps.jpg?1427753828) # 3D Printed Custom Keycaps ## Customize ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/183/medium800/hacks_01-measure.jpg?1427737170) ## Measurements The size of each keycap is different so it's important to take note of all the angles and curvatures. We'll started by taking measurements of the top and bottom of keycaps using calipers. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/184/medium800/hacks_02-loft.jpg?1427737181) ## Loft sketches In CAD software, we drew up simple sketches and lofted between them to create the basic shape. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/186/medium800/hacks_03-filet.jpg?1427737191) ## Fillet edges We then applied a small fillet of **1.25mm** to the edges.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/187/medium800/hacks_04-shell.jpg?1427737203) ## Shell walls A shell with a wall thickness of **1.25mm** matches up with the original key cap. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/188/medium800/hacks_05-curve.jpg?1427737215) ## Create curves To create the curvature, we subtracted an oblong cylinder from the top surface, which is an easy way to create a slight contour. Take note of the angle, each row of keys are differnet.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/189/medium800/hacks_06-support.jpg?1427737225) ## Keycap Stem: SLA Measure the placement of where the internal support connects to the switch. Use the stem geometry found in our 123D design file or import the **stemKey.stl** file into your CAD program. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/255/medium800/hacks_07-support-3.jpg?1427811420) ## Keycap Stem: FDM You'll want to adjust the tolerences on the stem when printing with FDM printers. Select the inside walls and push them out by about -.4mm. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/190/medium800/hacks_07-support-2.jpg?1427737234) ## Supports FDM Add bottom support structures when printing with FDM printers. Use the custom support structures found in the 123D design file or import the **stemSupport.stl** file. ** ** You can also build your own by projecting the sketch profile of the connector surface. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/191/medium800/hacks_08-icon.jpg?1427737245) ## Iconize Draw your artwork inside your favorite vector program or search online for .svg files. Import, extrude and combine it the the rest of the geometry to finish up the keycap design. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/254/medium800thumb/hacks_hero-skull-glow.jpg?1448317353) # 3D Printed Custom Keycaps ## 3D Printing ## FDM vs SLA These are rather small objects with some really fine detail, so it might not look the best on an FDM 3D printer - So we think this is a good job for a resin based SLA machine. [STL Download](http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:749563) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/248/medium800/hacks_fdm-sla2.jpg?1427746848) With that said, the keycaps can print just fine on FDM printers. Translucent PLA colors aren't completely see through. As layers get stacked on top of each other, objects will start to look more opaque . We definitely recommend using SLA for higher quality prints, especially if you want the see through look. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/193/medium800/hacks_skull-on-bed.jpg?1427737368) ## Layout orientation: SLA SLA printers mostly print upside down, so we'll need to have supports structures under the keycap stem. We can then lay it on the bed with the flat side of the keycap.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/202/medium800thumb/hacks_ember-key-tl.jpg?1448317313) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/250/medium800/hacks_sla-lay.jpg?1427750411) To orient the part and add support structures we’re using MeshMixer. Laying it flat on the side that has a decent amount of surface area, this will be the layer that sticks to the bed. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/252/medium800/hacks_support-sides.jpg?1427752374) ## Meshmixer Support Settings The default settings for support structures tend to generate non manifold geometry on very small parts. So we lowered the “ **Tip Height** ” option down to around **1.4mm - 0.70mm**. This will avoid generating any weird geometry when creating the supports. We’ll also drop the **Tip Diameter** to **.3mm - .8mm** so that it’s not so thick. Now when we create supports they come out clean. A few more on the side of the connector should be enough for it to print properly. Once thats looking good we’ll export the STL and upload to the printer. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/249/medium800/hacks_fdm-lay.jpg?1427750401) ## Layout orientation: FDM For FDM printers, you'll want to layout the keycaps with the top of the key facing upward. Fans on most printers should have enough cooling power to bridge the top wall without any problems. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/024/251/medium800/hacks_07-support-2.jpg?1427752345) ## Supports  You'll want to add custom supports for the kepcap stem when using FDM printers. Use the custom support structures found in the 123D design file or import the **stemSupport.stl** file. ** ** You can also build your own by projecting the sketch profile of the connector geometry. ## Featured Products ### Filament for 3D Printers in Various Colors and Types [Filament for 3D Printers in Various Colors and Types](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2080) Having a 3D printer without filament is sort of like having a regular printer without paper or ink.  And while a lot of printers come with some filament there's a good chance you've been printing up a storm and need something new.  That's why we've started carrying a... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2080) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2080/guides) ### Micro 3D Printer - Black - Retail Edition [Micro 3D Printer - Black - Retail Edition](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2933) The magic of 3D printing is now more affordable and accessible than ever! Meet The **Micro 3D Printer** by [M3D](https://printm3d.com/), the first truly consumer 3D printer. Sporting a compact design, user-friendly software, and replaceable print beds and nozzles,... No Longer Stocked [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2933) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2933/guides) ### Flashforge Creator PRO [Flashforge Creator PRO](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2742) The **Flashforge Creator Pro** is the latest addition to FlashForge’s Creator family, built upon an open source platform. Based on proven design of the Creator X chassis, the Pro is now enclosed so you can print ABS better and more efficient than ever. The upgraded... No Longer Stocked [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2742) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2742/guides) ### Mitutoyo - Absolute Digimatic Digital Calipers, 6 in. [Mitutoyo - Absolute Digimatic Digital Calipers, 6 in.](https://www.adafruit.com/product/294) The most useful tool we've ever laid our hands on.  We thought we'd use them just for electronics but then we got our hands on these calipers and had so much fun we started measuring _everything._ They're indestructible - which is good because we don't... No Longer Stocked [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/294) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/294/guides) ### Professional Non-Slip Magnetic Project Mat [Professional Non-Slip Magnetic Project Mat](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1636) Repairs can be tough. You don't need missing screws making it worse. iFixit designed this mat to make repairs easier. You won’t lose screws and won’t forget which screws go where. - Magnetized to hold tight onto small screws. - Dry erase surface lets you keep... No Longer Stocked [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1636) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1636/guides) ### Blue Masking Tape for 3D Printing Plates [Blue Masking Tape for 3D Printing Plates](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2416) OK yes, it's just masking tape. A big honkin' roll of I'm blue da-ba-dee-da-ba-die masking tape. Removing 3D printed parts can be tough. Sometimes pieces get stuck to your 3D printing plate and their bottoms get stuck to your build plate. Over time, chiseling objects off can... No Longer Stocked [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2416) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2416/guides) ### IFixit Jimmy - Electronics Opening Knife [IFixit Jimmy - Electronics Opening Knife](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2414) The all-mighty **Jimmy** from [IFixIt](https://www.ifixit.com/) is the best way out from an iRock and an iHardPlace. Slide, cut, twist, poke, slice, part, uproot, divide, lift, dissect, separate, and pry your devices to check out their insides, void your... No Longer Stocked [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2414) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2414/guides) ### Flush diagonal cutters [Flush diagonal cutters](https://www.adafruit.com/product/152) These are the best diagonal cutters, large super-comfortable grip to use and have strong nippers for perfect trimming of wires and leads. I've used my pair every day for years. In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/152) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/152/guides) ## Related Guides - [Arduino Lesson 7. Make an RGB LED Fader](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-arduino-lesson-7-make-an-rgb-led-fader.md) - [Glowy Message Crown](https://learn.adafruit.com/glowy-message-crown.md) - [LED Glowing Slime](https://learn.adafruit.com/led-glowing-slime.md) - [Adafruit Sparkle Motion Stick](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-sparkle-motion-stick.md) - [Zelda Echoes Of Wisdom Tri Rod](https://learn.adafruit.com/zelda-tri-rod.md) - [3D Printed Adabot Figurine](https://learn.adafruit.com/3d-printed-adabot-figurine.md) - [Magic Band Reader](https://learn.adafruit.com/magic-band-reader.md) - [NeoTrellis Game](https://learn.adafruit.com/neotrellis-box-game.md) - [Decorative Pointy Elf Ear Bud Holders](https://learn.adafruit.com/elf-ears.md) - [Soundbox RP2040](https://learn.adafruit.com/soundbox-rp2040.md) - [Glowing Slime Lunchbox](https://learn.adafruit.com/glowing-slime-lunchbox.md) - [Micro USB Dock for Circuit Playground](https://learn.adafruit.com/micro-usb-dock-for-circuit-playground.md) - [3D Printed Wearable Video Goggles](https://learn.adafruit.com/3d-printed-wearable-video-goggles.md) - [3D Printed Book Sleeve](https://learn.adafruit.com/3d-printed-book-sleeve.md) - [3D Printed Fabric Face Mask Clips](https://learn.adafruit.com/filti-face-mask.md)