dactyl-keyboard VS chonkybois

Keys layout generated using ergohaven/dactyl-keyboard

I used the STL files from: https://github.com/ergohaven/dactyl-keyboard/releases/tag/velvet-v1

Introducing our long-awaited minimalist keyboard Velvet. Only 38 keys, very small and compact, but still curved enough for comfortable work wherever you are! Completely open-source, you can download 3D models here.

Source code is here

STL and SVG files for printing 4x6/5x6 cases and laser cutting plates: https://github.com/ergohaven/dactyl-keyboard/releases/tag/stls

if you are looking for a sculpted/keywell design I would start with something like the https://github.com/sanderboer/chonkybois or https://github.com/Bastardkb/Skeletyl then work on refining your needs from those ideas.

The only thing I would change is to make it hotswappable, either by having a system like the chonkybois or, more simply, by using socket holders like this :)

I was planning to make the Lil Chonky Bois as my second keyboard/first handwired build. The design is pretty similar, but looks like Velvet uses less filament but gives you two more keys.

Thats not a chonki boi. This is it: https://github.com/sanderboer/chonkybois

I would really recommend making them, it's a really fun project. The hot swap sockets are inserted in the fitting holes and glued in place. I did not have any problems with the plastic melting, as long as you're careful with the iron you should be fine. Heres the github page were you can find the BOM and information. https://github.com/sanderboer/chonkybois

Highly recommend checking out chonkyboiswhich has a very gentle sweep.

DIY has a lot more options, check out r/ergomechkeyboards and/or kbd.news for inspiration/options. My personal favourites at the moment are chonky bois and dactyl-cc . Word of caution, this is quite a rabbit hole you are standing on an edge off.