Modular CardKB keyboard case (versions with or without GROVE port)

I wanted to design a CardKB case that has:

• Keys large enough to type comfortably

  • Satisfying clicks without a lot of noise

  • Most keys have the same click-feel

• Compact and embeddable into larger projects

• Can be used in darkness

  • Has backlight (not tested yet)

  • Glow in the dark

• Replaceable keycaps

The current version ticks all the above specs.

My design borrows an excellent 3D printable snap-fastener published by @volly for the keycaps. I miniaturized it further and used it to separate the keycaps and base.

Since the caps are removable, they allow for easy future customizations. I also provide the base keycap separately such that you can design your own keycap on it.

Printing process is slightly involved, but everything can be printed with a 0.4mm nozzle. There are 3 main parts to print:

1. Keycaps

• Use the STEP file as multi-part object and target slicer settings for each object.

• Ironing on all solid layers for first 1mm will help the clips be strong but is not mandatory.

• There is an embedded diffusion layer for backlighting.

• AMS or tool-changer is useful, but not necessary. I'll publish alternative caps that can be printed with a manual swap.

• Printable with 0.4mm nozzle perfectly, but will achieve even better quality on 0.2.

• Do not add any supports.

1. Trigger spring

• Tested working: PLA-CF/PETG/TPU for AMS

• Ironing on all solid layers. This is important to ensure the clips do not break.

  • Calibration comes in play as the retraction during ironing has lingering effects.

• Use transparent filament if you intend to add a backlight.

• 0.4mm nozzle is ok.

• Do not add any supports.

1. Keyboard top

• No special considerations.

• I opted to desolder the GROVE connector to make the keyboard thinner, but I'll publish an alternative version with a cutout. Desoldering is very easy if you use side cutters to first (carefully) trim the connector.

I intentionally only provide a simple back-case because I let you design something adapted in your projects. 

Included Files

• trigger-layer.3mf: Button springs for Card KB. Insert it through the designated marks in the top cover -- it should fit and hold the springs. You can use heat to melt the studs to retain it (optional). (Wait for the print to sufficiently cool down before attaching the caps.)

• cardkb=caps.3mf: Keycaps, glow in the dark, as shown in pictures. Provided conf is to be used with an AMS, and is not optimized for manual color changes due to the slanted top. 

• cardkb-top-cover--no-port.step: A low profile top case.

• backlitkeycaps.step: A WIP with the goal of active backlighting, diffusion, and minimal color changes. Not fully tested.

• cardkb-top-cover-grove-port.step: With cutouts for the Grove Port -- added 20.08.2026

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Links:

• Snap fastener by @volly in Public Domain : https://www.printables.com/model/49554-very-flat-snap-fastener-ie-for-wallets-or-fabric