How to Paint Keycaps of a Mechanical Keyboard

Unlock your keyboard’s potential for a truly unique design by changing the colour and style of its keycaps! Learn how to paint your mechanical keyboard keycaps using the right painting supplies and techniques. Follow these step-by-step guides to create a customised colour scheme for your gaming setup.

Can a Mechanical Keyboard Be Painted?

It is possible to paint your mechanical keyboard keycaps with acrylic paints and special primers. However, you should take extra precautions when painting your keyboard to ensure that the colours remain vibrant and do not chip or fade. Also, use a primer specifically designed for plastics before starting the painting process so that the paint will adhere to the keycaps properly.

When selecting a primer, you want to make sure that it is specifically designed for plastics so that it will bond with the plastic and protect your keyboard from fading or chipping. Once you have chosen a primer that meets your needs, use it to coat the entire keyboard before adding any paint.

What Colour Paint Should We Use?

The types of paint that work best for painting keycaps are acrylic-based paints, epoxy enamels, and urethane-based paints. These types of paint provide excellent coverage, durability, and adhesion. Depending on whether it is made of plastic or aluminium, you can create original designs with multi-surface acrylic paint. Experiment and make something unique – the possibilities are endless.

Spray painting is also a perfect way to get an even, vibrant hue. For best results, use a primer or go for a ready-to-apply paint and primer combo, then sit back as you watch it take shape. If you prefer more traditional methods, try acrylic paints like Americana Multi-Surface Satin Paint–It is sure to give that classic touch without compromising quality.

To ensure the best results, use a small brush or airbrush to carefully and evenly spread the paint over the surface of each cap. Make sure you apply multiple layers to get an even coverage and long-lasting finish. Lastly, apply a few thin coats of clear coat sealant to complete your project and protect the surface from scratches and dirt.

How do you Paint Keycaps?

  • There is no need to ruin your masterpiece before it even begins. Take the keycaps off with a gentle tug from an official keycap puller. Then you can safely remove them and set them aside for painting without ruining any sensitive components underneath.
  • Disassembling varies based on your hardware type, but a typical process involves carefully removing every key and separating components. With these steps complete, you’ll be ready for an entirely new look (and feel!)
  • Make sure to cover the surface with newspaper or something similar; paint spills will be easier to clean up if they’ve landed on a flat paper surface.
  • Use painter’s tape around the edges of the keyboard to ensure that no paint runs off or makes your project look sloppy.
  • Mix up a batch of acrylic paint in the colours of your choice and apply it with a foam brush or aerosol can. For the best results, layer the paints to create texture and depth. Apply multiple thin coats of paint, allowing it to dry between each layer.
  • Once you’ve achieved the desired effect, allow the paint to dry for 24 hours before reassembling the keyboard.
  • Secure the keycaps back in place, careful not to smudge any wet paint.
  • Enjoy your new and improved custom keyboard.
  • The crafty spray paint colour may bring life to a dull surface, but be aware that its reach is far greater than you think. If it seeps into your PCB (circuit board), beware of the resulting sticky keys and impaired functioning on your keyboard.

What is the Best Approach to Painting Keycaps?

The best approach to painting keycaps is to use high-quality paint designed for your keycaps’ material. Choose a colour that matches the rest of your setup and apply multiple layers to get an even, consistent coverage. Lastly, finish with a few thin coats of clear coat sealant for added protection and to help the paint last longer.

Different Methods to Paint Key Packs

Spray Paint

It is one of the most popular methods for painting keycaps, as it’s quick and easy. Make sure to use a paint specifically designed for your material and lightly spray several thin coats for even coverage.

Airbrushing

It is a more advanced way of painting keycaps, but it can also produce fantastic results. With airbrushing, you have much more control over the colour and finish, allowing you to achieve various artistic effects that would be impossible with spray paint.

Hand Painting

This method is excellent if you want a unique, one-of-a-kind design. Hand painting requires more patience and skill than the other methods, but it gives you complete control over the end product. You can use various types of paint or ink, such as acrylics or enamels.

Dye Sublimation

It is a great way to customise your keycaps with intricate designs, logos, and even full-colour photos. It involves using a printer to produce the desired image or design onto the keycap. The caps undergo a heat-pressed sealing process to ensure the design is secured for years of wear. This method produces very high-quality and long-lasting keycaps.

Dipping

Dipping is a new technique that has gained popularity in recent years. It is where you dip the material, such as leather or fabric, into a dye or pigment. This technique usually requires a chemical to help set the colour. This method is for those who want quick results but need more experience in painting.

Stencilling

Stencilling is another popular technique for customising gaming caps. It involves using a stencil of the desired design, such as a logo or pattern and then filling it in with different colours. Using stencils made explicitly for fabric is essential since it can take a lot of work to get the right results with regular paper. Finally, it is best to choose paint designed explicitly for the material for a long-lasting finish.

Paint Pens

Paint pens are an easy way to apply patterned paint to a surface. This method is best for those who don’t have the time or skill to use brushes or dipping techniques.

Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Painting Keycaps

  • Not cleaning the surface before painting
  • Not using a primer
  • Using too much paint
  • Using paint that’s not designed for keycaps
  • Not allowing enough time for the paint to dry
  • Not applying a protective layer
  • Using the wrong tools
  • Using the wrong type of primer
  • Using too much paint or not enough
  • Not curing the paint

Conclusion

Having the proper supplies and taking time is crucial for an excellent finish when painting your keycaps. A mechanical keyboard can be made more unique by painting the keycaps. Use the appropriate paint to dry completely before using your keyboard again.

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