I created Glitched Caps when I was making keycaps as a fun, off-screen hobby and soon found myself with too many to keep. I decided to open an online store so I could continue to create and make some money on the side.

I started with creating the branding for my store, naming it Glitched Caps with an 8-bit bull logo as a homage to a family nickname. With that set, I researched the best place to host my shop and decided on Etsy instead of my own website since it already had a payment system in place and a solid customer base. 

Once my store was set up, I started sketching keycaps designs. To stand out from other keycap artisans, I worked to define my style by incorporating the full shape of the keycap into the design itself rather than just sitting on top of the keycap. While this requires more planning in the design and precision in the execution, I think it makes the keycap have a more unified look and finished feel.

Since each keycap is hand sculpted, I decided to do limited drops to give myself enough time to make each keycap and switch up the designs so that I don’t get bored. Limited Drops have also been very effective on social media with a solid marketing strategy.

For each keycap set, I start by brainstorming a set of 5 keycaps and drawing the designs. Once I am happy with the sketches, I prototype each keycap, adjusting the design as needed so that it can fit on the keyboard and to figure out the best techniques to make it intricate yet sturdy. As I prototype, I also track the cost of the materials and the time it takes to sculpt each key so that I can determine the prices for the set, ensuring that I can make a profit to save up for better tools and materials for future sets. When the prototypes are finished, I start a production line for the final keys, creating extras in case there are any defects or imperfections.

As I work the production line of hand sculpting, painting, and resining the keycaps, I also plan my marketing strategy for the set including themed photoshoots, sales on previous keycaps, creating social media graphics and reels, and a schedule for regular posts and engagement. Ahead of each release, I create listings, order themed packaging, create authentication cards, and ensure my store is ready.

Glitched Caps offers the keycap sets (sold individually or as the full set) and custom orders. For each keycap purchased, I hand write notes to the buyers, respond to any customer messages, and ensure that the orders are sent on time.

I am continuously improving my small business. Between sets and throughout the release preparation, I continue to research best practices and techniques for sculpting, marketing, and other business strategies.