Resource Collection
Written by Alex Ren for hwdocs.hackclub.dev
Here's a general list of resources & links that may be useful to you!
The most useful thing you can get from this is to get into the habit of searching stuff up! There are so many resources out there and this page can only cover so much.
Finding 3D Models & Libraries
- GrabCAD — Community library with literally any 3D model you can think of
- SnapEDA — Footprints & symbols for electronics components (though creating your own when possible is recommended)
Useful Software
- Excalidraw — An awesome site for making really quick sketches that look good
- KiCAD — Free, open source PCB design software that works on any platform
- Fusion360 or Onshape — For 3D modelling
Technical Resources
- Ellis' 3D Print Tuning Guide — Swaths of really useful information for dialing in your prints
- Keyboard Atelier Designer Spreadsheet — Reference data for keyboard designers
Project Inspiration
- Adafruit — Hundreds of insanely cool projects with full guides and tutorials
Communities
Discord servers:
- KiCAD — PCB design help and discussion
- QMK — Keyboard firmware
- VORONDesign — 3D printing community dedicated to VORON designs
Subreddits:
- r/mechanicalkeyboards — Keyboard help and showcase
- r/QMK — Keyboard firmware discussion
- r/3DPrinting — General 3D printing community
- r/electronics — Electronics projects and help
Measurements List
These are common measurements for designing 3D printed parts:
| Part | Measurement |
|---|---|
| M3 screw head diameter (socket & button head) | 6mm |
| M3 heatset inserts | 4.7mm OD, 4mm depth |
| M3 screw-ins for plastic | 2.9mm |
| M2 screw-ins for plastic | 1.9mm |
| M3 SHCS screw head depth | 3.1mm |
| M3 BHCS screw head depth | 1.8mm |
Most of these were taken from the VORONDesign team's designs — they work well across other designs too.