Introduction:

I wanted to officially start the interviews off with a bang. Bro is the maker and creator behind some of the most iconic artisan keycaps around. Bro Caps are acquired by those with above-average luck on [CTRL]ALT via “sales” that are much more reminiscent of lotteries than anything else. The system makes sense though, obviously there is no way enough keys could be made to meet demand. Unfortunately this can be upsetting to some, but at the end of the day these are not made in limited quantities to be “elitist” in any way, instead they are simply made in limited quantities due to the limitations of the artist. I have never personally won a Bro cap (I think I’m 0/9 now) but still love seeing all the pictures of them on the winner’s keyboards after the sale. This interview is about the man behind the caps.



Finally, thank you Bro for taking the time out of your schedule for this interview!

Andy: Before making keycaps, did you have any other artistic outlets?

Bro: I have been drawing since around age 7. I have tried many different mediums, including oil painting, watercolor, and pen & ink. It wasn’t until a couple years back that I started sculpting for the first time.

Andy: Do you remember the first artisan keycap you ever saw? Did you know right then that you wanted to make them, or was coming to that decision a slower process?

Bro: The first artisan that really inspired me, were ClickClacks. I always admired the quality and attention to detail in CC’s work. I knew I wanted to try my hand at it. It was a slow build to where I am today, but to this day, CC is still a model for what quality artisans should strive for.

Andy: Where has the inspiration for your designs come from? Do you have a personal favorite design of your own?

Bro: I have many sources of inspiration; comic books, zombie movies/books/tv shows and a lot of sci fi. I would have to say my own favorite would be Zombro. I just love gruesome zombies. I wanted to give it a silly kind of look, but also creepy.

Andy: How has working with the team at CTRLalt been?

Bro: BunnyLake and team are just great people to work with. Bunny has done a lot for the community, and continue to try and bring new and interesting things to GeekHack.

Andy: Are there any other artisans whose work you really admire?

Bro: I really like Kult Worship Kaps (HipsterPunks), especially the Vandal. It’s just such a simple and clean design. I also really like the work that Booper has been doing. Exceptionally clean work and real attention to quality.

Andy: What is your current daily driver keyboard? Any special keycaps on it?

Bro: I know you’re going to laugh at this, but for gaming, I am using the Logitech G910 (Omron Switches). I have been using it since it came out, and I just really enjoy the short switch travel, and the overall feel. I am actually wanting to snag the TKL version that is coming out soon. My secondary, and used for work, would be the HHKB. Just can’t live without my ‘thock!’.

Andy: What is the most exciting part about being an artisan? The creative process, showing off new designs, the sales, etc?

Bro: For me it’s about getting a creative outlet to share with people. I love showing off new designs, and sharing with the community. It’s been a long road to where I am today, but being a part of the community and connecting with them is the most rewarding.

Andy: Do you have any other hobbies you’d like to talk about outside of keyboards?

Bro: I play a bit of World of Warcraft, Diablo III and some other games here and there, when I have time. Outside of gaming, I do a lot of hiking on las vegas trails (red rock canyon, mt charleston).I also have been getting back into drawing again. Computer work has taken away from that a bit, so I am trying to reconnect with that as much as possible.