Custom-made keycaps conjured up by young keyboard enthusiast

Rohan Ahmed is a 15-year-old seventh grader from Banani Bidyaniketan School and School. Much like other teenagers in his age group, he is also enamoured by video games. However, what makes him and his gaming rig stand out from many others are the keycaps on his keyboard. But what exactly is so spellbindingly special about them? He makes the keycaps all by himself, using clay, markers, and glue, among other things. 

Having stumbled upon custom-made keycaps on the internet, Rohan really liked the look of it. He then scoured the internet, exploring various websites, looking to buy some for himself, but his search came up short. And that was what sparked his eureka moment. Inspired and driven, he thought of designing his own keycaps. Although Rohan's first few attempts were futile, he kept at it until his perseverance was rewarded. 

Photo: Orchid Chakma

"The design of the keycaps really fascinated me, and that spurred me on to make my own set," he said. "While I design the keycaps by myself, I read instructions online and watch tutorials on YouTube. I initially only used clay to make the keycaps, but you need more than just clay. This is something I learned only after watching the tutorials." 

He conjures up characters from his favourite TV shows, anime, and video games and transforms them into miniature caricatures of themselves. From Poké Balls to Finn from Adventure Time, his ensemble of keycaps is diverse. When asked which of his keycaps he liked the best, he said, "My favourite key that I have designed is the Zoro keycap."

One might wonder whether or not it has an effect on the functionality of the keyboard, but rest assured, not only do they look great but they work perfectly fine as well. Once coupled with the backlit lights of the keyboard, the caps really are illuminated into life. 

Photo: Orchid Chakma

"I wish I had access to better quality clay. With better clay, I could produce better keys. The ones I use now are a little too soft and need to be hardened using glue," said Rohan about his design process. 

While Rohan did mention that he designs for himself and how creatively fulfilling the process is, he also said that he isn't opposed to the idea of his hobby expanding into new horizons. With Rohan's keen sense of aesthetics coupled with an inquisitive mind, this endeavour of his is likely going to propel newer, more exciting opportunities towards his path.