Enjoying art and fun shouldn't come with a hefty price tag; it can be both high-quality and affordable.

Welcome to this monthly new series where I will be spotlighting talented keycap artists whose work I have come across and purchased from them as I love their designs. With reasonable pricing and shipping options that have proven worthwhile to me, here I am sharing them with you. Whether you're in search of intricacy, uniqueness, or affordability in artisan keycaps, I hope you find inspiration and the opportunity to support these creators.

Getting into the hobby and into the rabbit hole of artisan keycaps can be a bit overwhelming for the pocket as one artisan keycap can cost as much as a whole set, with some costing more than S$80 (not including shipping fees yet). And let's not get started on shipping... If you are in Singapore or South East Asia, sometimes shipping from overseas sellers are more than S$20-40+!😵

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

Hopefully this list helps you as it did me (especially if you are from South East Asia) and support the lovely artists who are doing a wonderful job, and making it a little bit more easier for you and your wallet in personalizing your mechanical keyboard!

teas_factory is a keycap artists who is in Singapore. Her aim to make affordable keycaps that everyone can enjoy really resonated with me, and her design aesthetics definitely caught my eye. Her design aesthetics are uniquely adorable with creations inspired from cartoon series to animals. She mainly focuses on custom keycaps, but does come up with designs of her own as well.&nbsp

Check out this short video of her cute cow creation, Sakura, who has found her home on my low profile keyboard.

[Keycap Series: June Artist Featuring teas_factory]

[First Look: Ajazz AK832 Wireless three mode mechanical keyboard (Brown Switch Model)]

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month] 

For the month of June, the artist of the month is teas_factory who is located in Singapore! Her aim to make affordable keycaps that everyone can enjoy really resonated with me, and her design aesthetics definitely caught my eye. Her design aesthetics are uniquely adorable with creations inspired from cartoon series to animals. She mainly focuses on custom keycaps, but does come up with designs of her own as well. 

Shipping (within Singapore) is the cheapest yet at S$2. 

International shipping is also reasonable:

1. Malaysia & Brunei: S$7.10
2. Countries in Asia & the Pacific (except Australia, Japan, New Zealand): S$9.30
3. Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the rest of the world: S$11.90

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month] 

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

I first came across teas_factory  on Instagram and went to check out her creations. 😍

What caught my attention was the adorable Sakura Cow. It was simply too cute to resist, and the pricing made it even more irresistible!

Unlike the artists featured so far who have an Etsy or online store, she takes orders via Google Forms and promotes them via her Instagram and Carousell account. The process was really simple: the link to the form is on her accounts and when you've completed it, she will send the invoice over to the email you provided. Simple and easy (especially for Singaporean buyers since PayNow is also accepted). You can even commission designs from her. 😊

teas_factory  was really fast and responsive, even making sure that my address was correct. The invoice was sent shortly after. It took about 6 working days to reach me, which is not too bad considering it was made upon order, and having to wait a bit for the new batch of resin to arrive.

Packaging was on point: little Sakura the Cow was encased in a little cute box with a lovely wax seal affixed on the top; adding a nice touch. She arrived with some cute stickers and notes!

Artist Info

• Style:  📺 Pop Culture / Nature Inspired / Gaming / Anime
• Pricing(per keycap): an average of S$26 to S$36+ (US$20  to US$30+) 
• Pricing for commission pieces might vary so always reach out and clarify. 
• Shipping to Singapore: less than $2 (US$2.50)
• Shipping Internationally: an average of S$9.30 to S$11.90+ (US$7 to US$10+)
• Wait Time: My order via Google Forms took a total of 2 working days to get processed and another 4 working days to reach me. Also best to check with teas_factory  on when you can receive your little cutie.
• Material: Resin / Polymer Clay
• Social Media: 
• Instagram 
• Carousell 

💗 Loves

Have you gotten any keycaps from teas_factory ? If the answer is yes, let me know in the comments below what you loved and what did you get! 

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month]

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

In the world of desk accessories, two essential items often come into play: the desk mat and the mousepad. While they might seem similar at first glance, these two products serve distinct purposes and offer unique benefits. In this blog post, we'll dive into the key differences between desk mats and mousepads to help you decide which one—or perhaps both—you need for your workspace.

Desk Mats: The Multi-Purpose Protector

Size and Coverage

Desk mats are the larger of the two, designed to cover a significant portion of your desk. They can accommodate your keyboard, mouse, and sometimes even a laptop or other desk accessories. This expansive coverage helps keep your workspace organized and clutter-free.

Purpose and Functionality

The primary purpose of a desk mat is to protect your desk surface. Whether it's shielding your desk from scratches, spills, or heat damage, a desk mat is a versatile tool that enhances the longevity of your furniture. Additionally, desk mats provide a comfortable writing surface, making them ideal for note-taking and other tasks.

Materials and Aesthetics

Desk mats come in a variety of materials, including leather, fabric, plastic, and rubber. This variety allows you to choose a mat that not only suits your functional needs but also complements your aesthetic preferences. A stylish desk mat can add a touch of elegance to your workspace.

Extra Features

Many desk mats come with additional features that enhance their functionality. You might find desk mats with built-in organizers, charging ports, or even wrist rests for added comfort. These extra touches can make a significant difference in your daily productivity and comfort.

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Mousepads: Precision and Performance

Size and Specificity

Mousepads are smaller and specifically designed to accommodate the movement of a mouse. Their compact size ensures that they provide just enough space for smooth and efficient mouse operation without taking up too much room on your desk.

Purpose and Efficiency

The main goal of a mousepad is to improve the performance of your mouse. A good mousepad offers a smooth, consistent surface that enhances tracking and precision, making it an essential tool for anyone who relies on their mouse for work or gaming. Additionally, mousepads protect your desk from the wear and tear caused by constant mouse movement.

Materials and Design

Mousepads are typically made from materials that optimize mouse tracking, such as cloth, plastic, or rubber with a textured surface. These materials are chosen to provide the best possible interaction between the mouse sensor and the pad, ensuring accurate and responsive performance.

Additional Enhancements

Some mousepads come with features designed to improve user comfort and experience. For instance, you might find mousepads with wrist rests or gel padding to reduce strain during extended use. Others may have specialized surfaces tailored for different types of mouse sensors, catering to specific needs.

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Choosing Between a Desk Mat and a Mousepad

When deciding between a desk mat and a mousepad, consider your specific needs and how you use your workspace. If you're looking for a multi-purpose solution that offers protection and organization, a desk mat might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you need something to enhance the precision and comfort of your mouse usage, a mousepad is likely the better choice.

Ultimately, both desk mats and mousepads can significantly improve your workspace. Some people even choose to use both, enjoying the comprehensive protection and enhanced functionality they provide together.

Whether you're aiming to protect your desk, improve your mouse performance, or simply add a touch of style to your setup, understanding the differences between desk mats and mousepads can help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Happy working!

teeny.snug is located in sunny Singapore and embarked on her creation journey since March 2022. She started out with many interests from keebs, clay and vtubers, ultimately deciding to focus on clay creations. She has the most adorable series of artisan cat keycaps called “Potted Pets” on her online store. 

Of course, her creations are not limited to just keycaps. She  recently introduced a deskbud series where potted cats and dogs were up for purchase to keep you company while you work, adding that something special to your desk setup.

Can you guess? Yes, I got them cute deskbuds - the cat and dog dark brown version. Little did I know they were so popular and were sold out quite fast after I got them. Thankfully I got them and they are happily on my desk now. 😆

The packaging was super adorable with a sticker each for the cat and dog deskbuds. I love the little paw print details which are peppered throughout the package! 😍

Purchase Experience

Experience purchasing from the shop was good and straight forward. Navigation was also easy as everything you would want to know from the backstory, how long delivery takes, terms and conditions, adding to cart and check out was straight-forward. 

There are a few ways she offers her creations via her online store:

• New pre-orders are on her store for 1-2 months before being retired; always added something new.
• In-stock keycaps are already created and ready top be packed and sent out with a 2-5 day processing time).
• Raffle: with limited quantity but ready-made keycaps.
• For more you should check out the FAQ for the latest must updated information.

How to Buy

If you haven’t guessed it by now, I am a little smitten with the wonderful sleepy details of Sleepy Eevee by Apple from WildAppleStudio. So here is another short video of the cute little guy in his full sleepy form, all 360 degrees of him, from his adorable sleepy bubble from the front to his little behind. 😄

If you are interested in knowing how to get your own Sleepy Eevee or his adorable friends, do check out my review from purchasing him from Apple’s online shop.  Thank you for dropping by!

[Review: Shopping Experience at WildAppleStudio Online Shop]

[Keycap Series: April Artist Featuring wildapplestudio]

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month] 

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on mechanical keyboard switches!

If you're new to the world of mechanical keyboards or looking to upgrade your typing experience, understanding the different types of switches is crucial. In this blog post, we'll break down everything you need to know about mechanical keyboard switches, from the various types available to their unique characteristics. Let's dive in!

Types of Mechanical Keyboard Switches:

Mechanical keyboard switches come in several varieties, each offering a distinct feel and sound. Here are some of the most common types:

Cherry MX: Cherry MX switches are widely regarded as the gold standard in mechanical keyboards. They come in various colors, each indicating a different type of switch, such as Cherry MX Red (linear), Cherry MX Blue (clicky), and Cherry MX Brown (tactile).

Kailh: Kailh switches are Cherry MX clones manufactured by Kaihua Electronics. They offer similar characteristics to Cherry MX switches but may come at a lower price point. Popular Kailh switches include Kailh Red, Kailh Blue, and Kailh Brown.

Gateron: Gateron switches are another Cherry MX alternative known for their smooth feel and competitive pricing. Gateron switches come in a variety of colors, including Gateron Red, Gateron Blue, and Gateron Brown.

Outemu: Outemu switches are budget-friendly switches commonly found in entry-level mechanical keyboards. While they may not offer the same level of durability as other brands, they provide a satisfactory typing experience for casual users.

Characteristics of Mechanical Keyboard Switches:

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, several characteristics come into play:

Actuation Force: The amount of force required to register a keystroke varies between switch types. Some switches, like Cherry MX Red, have a light actuation force, while others, like Cherry MX Green, require more forceful typing.

Tactility: Tactile switches provide feedback through a noticeable bump in the keystroke, while linear switches offer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. Clicky switches combine tactile feedback with an audible click sound upon actuation.

Sound: The sound produced by a mechanical keyboard switch depends on its type and construction. Clicky switches, such as Cherry MX Blue, are known for their distinctive click sound, while linear switches like Cherry MX Red produce minimal noise.

Durability: Mechanical keyboard switches are rated for a cetain number of keystrokes, typically in the millions. High-quality switches, such as Cherry MX and Gateron, are known for their durability and longevity.

Choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch is a personal decision based on your typing preferences, gaming style, and budget. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of Cherry MX Brown switches or the smooth keystrokes of Gateron Red switches, understanding the characteristics of each switch type is essential. 

We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, helping you make an informed decision for your next keyboard upgrade. Happy typing!

When you think of a mechanical keyboard, a low profile keyboard is not very common and they are kind of pricey. So of course when the Ajazz AK832 was on sale on Shopee, I quickly grabbed it.

Although the board is not hotswappable (i.e. t's forever stuck on brown switches it came with), the RGB is only white light and I could not choose the type of switch it came with (the other options were sold out), it was worth the deal at that price to try out a low profile mechanical keyboard. There are other switch options, so you can choose between Red, Brown and Blue switches (depending on the seller you get it from and the variations they are selling).

It might not come with the digital screen like the Ajazz AK832 Pro, but I am happy with it. Delivery did take some time but it came eventually. 

[First Look: CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit Alice-layout Review]

What are low-profile mechanical keyboards?

Low-profile mechanical keyboards offer a unique typing experience compared to traditional mechanical keyboards.  They give an experience similar to typing on your laptop keypad as the keycaps are uniform and short, the switch also has a shorter travel distance - which means that keys do not need to be pressed down as far as a regular switch to register a keystroke, resulting in a quicker typing experience.

[Unlocking the World of Mechanical Keyboards: A Beginner Guide]

[MACHENIKE K500W vs RK71 Mechanical Keyboards]

If you are transitioning from a laptop membrane keyboard, a low-profile keyboard might offer the closest experience if you are already used to typing furiously away on your laptop's keyboard.  When I first started using my first mechanical keyboard with linear switches, it did take some time to get used to the linear switches. There was a slight difference in the amount of pressure to be exerted on the keys. Another thing to get used to was the various different types of keycap profiles!

[Mechanical Keyboard Switches Explained: Your Complete Guide to Types and Characteristic]

[Your Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Keycap Profile for Your Mechanical Keyboard]

Here are some other points which might make a low profile mechanical keyboard more appealing to you: 

1. Slimmer Design: Low-profile mechanical keyboards are designed to be thinner and sleeker than traditional mechanical keyboards. This slim profile can be aesthetically pleasing and can also be more ergonomic, especially for users who prefer a lower typing angle.

2. Shorter Key Travel: One of the defining features of low-profile mechanical keyboards is their shorter key travel distance compared to standard mechanical keyboards. This means that the keys don't need to be pressed down as far to register a keystroke, resulting in a quicker typing experience.

3. Quieter Typing: Due to their shorter key travel and often different switch designs, low-profile mechanical keyboards tend to produce less noise compared to their traditional counterparts. This can be advantageous in environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or shared workspaces.

3. Different Switch Options: Low-profile mechanical keyboards typically use switches that are specifically designed for their slimmer profile. These switches often have characteristics similar to traditional mechanical switches but may have a shallower actuation point and overall shorter travel distance. Some popular low-profile switch options include Kailh Choc switches and Cherry MX Low Profile switches.

4. Portability: The slim and lightweight design of low-profile mechanical keyboards makes them highly portable compared to bulkier traditional mechanical keyboards. They are easier to carry around, whether you're commuting to work or traveling.

5. Limited Keycap Compatibility: Due to their unique switch design and slimmer profile, low-profile mechanical keyboards may have limited keycap compatibility compared to standard mechanical keyboards. This means that customizing the keycaps on a low-profile keyboard might be more challenging.

6. Typing Experience: The typing experience on a low-profile mechanical keyboard can vary depending on personal preference and the specific switches used. Some users enjoy the quicker, more responsive feel of low-profile switches, while others may prefer the more substantial key travel of traditional mechanical switches.

Overall, low-profile mechanical keyboards offer a different typing experience that appeals to users looking for a slimmer design, quieter operation, and potentially faster typing speeds. However, it's essential to try out different keyboards and switches to find the one that best suits your preferences and typing style.

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If you are wondering what is Shopee , it’s basically a shopping platform like Amazon but with pricing closer to Temu. They have an app for Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia, mostly for the South East Asian countries. Besides the (probably) more affordable (cheaper) pricing, shipping is either free or less than SGD$2 (for majority of the sellers). The only downside is that you need a local number and address for each of the Shopee country app. 

Have you gotten your copy of Pokemon Scarlet or Violet yet? If not, do check out the link below to get your copy to start your adventure! 

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You might be wondering what are Mystery Gifts? Well, they are basically Poké freebies (for perpetually almost forever) and who doesn't love freebies? 😁 

They did it with the other Pokemon games such as Sword and Shield, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, and The Legend of Arceus. Since Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are ones I started really paying attention to, I'll be having a handy list of the here. 

So check out this page for the latest code for few Mystery Gifts! 

Below is a full list of the Mystery Gift codes you can currently redeem in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

1. (No code - Receive via the Internet) - Mythical Pecha Berry Gift
2. NE0R0T0MC0VER - Neo-Kitakami Case for Rotom Phone
3. SUPEREFFECT1VE - Expert Belt Expires 28 February , 2025
4. G0TCHAP0KEM0N - 30 Quick Balls Expires 28 February, 2025
5. Y0AS0B1B1R1B1R1 - Pawmoty Expires  28 February , 2025
6. NA1CTR1CKR00M-  Porygon Expires 10 June, 2024
7. GYARAD0S2023SG - Gyarados Expires 30 June, 2024
8. L1KEAFLUTE - Cetitan  Expires 31 August, 2024
9. SWEET0RSP1CY - Sweet Herb Mystica or Spice Herb Mystica  Expires 30 September, 2024
10. L1K0W1TH906 - Sprigatito with Partner Ribbo Expires 30 September, 2024
11. TEAMSTAR - Fighting Tera Type Revavroom  Expires 31 October, 2024
12. WEARTERASTALCAP - Sporty Cap  Expires 30 November, 2024
13. SEEY0U1NPALDEA - Chipper Gimmighoul  Expires 30 November, 2024
14. D0T1STPARTNER - Dot's Quaxly Expires 30 November, 2024
15. SH1NYBUDDY -  Shiny Lucario Expires 03 January, 2024
16. No code – Get via Internet - Master Ball  Expires 03 January 3, 2024
17. No code – Get via Internet - 10 TM223 (Metal Sound)  Expires Mid-January, 2024
18. THA12022CHAMP - Shiny Grimmsnarl 18 Aug 23
19. DARKTERA0006 - Dark Tera Type Charizard 31 Aug 23
20. GETY0URMEW - Free Mew 08 Sept 23
21. NATSUN0T0KKUN - Sandwich Ingredients 30 Sep 23
22. LEVELUP -10 Rare Candy Expires 02 Oct 23
23. REV1VE -5 Max Revive Expires  02 Oct 23
24. CATCHBYBALL -5 Dive, Dusk, Luxury, Nest, Quick and Timer Balls Expires  02 Oct 23
25. ENJOYBATTLE -TM082 Thunder - Wave and TM087 - Taunt Expires 30 Apr 23
26. ROCKANDBATON -TM116 Stealth Rock and TM132 Baton Pass Expires 07 May 23
27. LETSTERA - TM171 — Tera Blast Expires 31 Mar 23
28. HAPPYVALENT1NE - Destiny Knot Expires 14 Mar 23 
29. L0VEL0VEL0VE - 2x Love Balls Expires 14 Mar 23 
30. T0KUSE1STUDY - Ability Capsule Expires 28 Feb 23
31. No Code (under "Get via Internet") - Pikachu (Tera Type: Flying) Expires 28 Feb 23
32. HAJ1ME0R1G1NAL - Sandwich Ingredients 10X: Peanut Butter, Prosciutto, Hamburger, Cream Cheese, Noodles, Rice Expires 31 Jan 23
33. READY4RA1D - 20,000 League Points Expires 31 Jan 23
34. HAPPYH0L1DAYS - 50 Ice Tera Shards Expires 25 Dec 22
35. SALTV1NEGAR - Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22
36. PEANUTBUTTER - Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22
37. LETTUCEBAC0N - Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22
38. T0MAT0SL1CE -  Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22

How do you redeem Mystery Gift codes?

To redeem the above codes, simply follow these instructions:

1. Open the main menu in your copy of Pokémon Scarlet or Violet
2. Select 'Poké Portal', then 'Mystery Gift'
3. Select 'Get with Code/Password' and input the code to claim your free gift

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Introducing Sleepy Eevee by WildAppleStudio! Apple did such a fantastic job on this little guy that his unboxing deserves a post of his own.

If you are interested in knowing how to get your own, do check out my review from purchasing him from Apple’s online shop.  Thank you for dropping by!

[Review: Shopping Experience at WildAppleStudio Online Shop]

[Keycap Series: April Artist Featuring wildapplestudio]

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month] 

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

Here is the promised experience of buying from Apple’s online shop! 

If you are new here, Apple is an artist in Hong Kong specialising in polymer clay creations ranging from charms, artisan keycaps and accessories. Previously I ordered two adorable and intricately made Miffy and Totoro keycaps from her Etsy store. More about that experience can be found here: 

[Keycap Series: April Artist Featuring wildapplestudio]

This time I tried buying from her online shop instead of Etsy. The shop was easy to navigate and I was able to find what I wanted with her April shopdrop. 🙈 The sleepy Eevee was too adorable, that my hand had a life of its own and I bought it! 

With the many different platforms and passwords we have nowadays, it was a refreshing experience to simply add to cart and check out; without having to create or connect to a Google or another account. The simplicity was what made it all (too) easy to purchase the wonderful delights Apple has in her online store!

In the checkout page, input the address and contact number, then choose the mode of payment - Paypal, Credit card or Apple Pay etc.. I chose PayPal and before I could blink, it was checked out. 🙈 It took about 4 working days for the order to be processed with an email to inform that it has been sent out, and another 6 business working days to arrive in my mailbox! 😍

[Unboxing of Sleepy Eevee Artisan Keycap by WildAppleStudio]

The FAQ section mentions that orders usually are shipped out within 7-10 working days, then about 11-14 business days for international shipping. So once you have received the confirmation email, just wait for a bit to receive the update that the parcel has been shipped out.

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

Do note that with dynamic currency conversion, there may be minor fluctuations based on market conditions.

Besides the excellent workmanship and the little details on my keycaps, here are what I liked about purchasing from the online store:

💗 Loves

Artist Info

• Style: 🧚 Whimsical / Nature-Inspired / Gaming / Anime / Food 🍲
• Pricing (per keycap): an average of S$15 to S$80+ (US$11 to US$60+)
• Shipping to Singapore: less than $10 (US$8)
• Shipping Internationally: depends on your location but should be reasonable. 
• Wait Time: Orders usually are shipped out within 7-10 working days, then about 11-14 business days for international shipping (to reach you). 
• Material: Polymer clay and protected with UV resin
• Location: Hong Kong 
• Social Media: 
• Esty Shop
• Online Shop
• Instagram
• Youtube
• PinInterest
• Reddit

Have you gotten any keycaps from wildapplestudio? If the answer is yes, let me  know in the comments below what you loved and what did you get! 

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month] 

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

Did you know that there are many different profiles of keycaps for your mechanical keyboard?

In the world of mechanical keyboards, the quest for the perfect typing experience is a journey marked by personal preferences and practical considerations. Among the many choices to be made, selecting the appropriate keycap profile stands is one of the most basic yet import decision which would impact your experience. 

In this guide, we aim to provide a factual exploration of the more common keycap profiles, shedding light on their characteristics and offering humble insights to assist you in choosing the profile best suited to your needs.

Understanding Keycap Profiles

Keycap profiles are those subtle contours and heights. They play a fundamental role in shaping the tactile landscape of mechanical keyboards. Let us take a look at some of the most prevalent profiles:

Cherry Profile:

• Notable for its lower stature
• Features a flat top with a gentle incline
• Embraces a sleek appearance coupled with a comfortable typing feel.

OEM Profile:

• Characterized by a modestly curved surface
• Offers varied heights across rows
• Balances comfort and affordability in a straightforward design.

DSA Profile:

• Presents a uniform height across all rows
• Boasts a symmetrical and unassuming demeanor
• Facilitates effortless customization and across diverse layouts.

Choosing the Right Keycap Profile: