How To Get Accents On A Keyboard

I still remember the first time I used a keyboard with concrete accents — the moment I saw the sharp, industrial edge of the concrete meet the smooth, polished wood of the desk, I knew I'd stumbled onto something special. The contrast was bold, the durability was clear, and the DIY aspect made it feel like a true personal achievement. Whether you're a designer looking to add texture or a homeowner wanting a unique statement piece, learning how to get accents on a keyboard can be a game-changer.

The process might sound complicated, but it's surprisingly accessible. I spent a weekend crafting my first keyboard with concrete accents, and it turned out better than I ever imagined. It's not just about aesthetics — concrete adds a level of toughness that's hard to beat. The way the material interacts with light and shadow makes the keyboard feel more like a sculpture than a tool. If you're ready to take your DIY projects to the next level, this guide will show you exactly how to get accents on a keyboard.

Let me walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right materials to pouring the perfect concrete accent. I'll share the exact tools, quantities, and techniques I used, so you can recreate this look with confidence. Whether you're working on a custom keyboard for your home office or a unique piece for a client, this is your roadmap to success. Let's get started.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Keyboard Accents

As of September 2026, I used a 100% Portland cement mix with a polymer additive for flexibility, which helped prevent cracking. This mix was crucial — I tried regular cement before, and it cracked within a week from temperature changes. I also used a mold made from silicone, which gave me clean edges and made demolding easy. The key is to pick materials that are both durable and moldable.^[1]

I purchased a concrete sealer to protect the surface after pouring, which I applied with a small brush. I also used a piece of scrap wood to create a mold for the keyboard’s corners. The mold was about 2 inches thick and covered the entire back of the keyboard. This allowed me to add texture to the concrete by pressing a metal mesh into the wet mix.

I didn't use any paint or colorants, but if you want a different look, you can add a pigment to the cement mix. I used a silicone mold because it's reusable and gives a clean finish. If you’re on a budget, you can make a mold out of cardboard and coat it with a release agent like cooking spray.

Preparing Your Workspace and Tools

I set up a large table in my garage and covered it with plastic sheeting to protect the floor. I also used a drop cloth to catch any excess concrete. My workspace was about 6 feet long and 4 feet wide, which gave me enough space to work without feeling cramped.

I used a small trowel to smooth the concrete once it was in the mold, and a plastic scraper to remove excess. I also had a spray bottle to mist the mold with water before pouring, which helped the concrete stick to the mold and prevented sticking. The most important tools I used were the mold, the trowel, and a small level to check for evenness.

I kept a bucket of clean water nearby for mixing and a small container for mixing the cement and polymer additive. I also used a sponge to wipe away any excess moisture from the mold before pouring. It’s important to work in a clean, dry area so the concrete doesn’t pick up any contaminants.

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your concrete accents look professional and last for years.

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Pouring the Concrete and Creating Texture

I mixed the cement and polymer additive in a 1:3 ratio — one part additive to three parts cement. I poured the mix into the mold and used a trowel to smooth the surface. I also added a layer of metal mesh on top of the concrete to create a textured look. This step took about 10 minutes, and I made sure to press the mesh firmly into the wet mix.^[2]

I used a small piece of scrap wood to press into the wet concrete and create grooves, which added depth and visual interest. I also used a small metal tool to scratch patterns into the surface before it dried. These details made the accents look more handmade and less industrial, which was exactly what I wanted.

I let the concrete cure for 24 hours before removing it from the mold. During this time, I kept the area covered with a plastic sheet to prevent dust from settling on the surface. The texture I created was subtle but enough to give the accents a distinct look without overpowering the keyboard’s design.

“I still remember the first time I used a keyboard with concrete accents — the moment I saw the sharp, industrial edge of the concrete…”— DIY Furniture with Concrete Accents editors

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Curing and Finishing Your Concrete Accents

I let the concrete cure for 72 hours in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. During this time, I kept the area covered with a plastic sheet to prevent moisture loss and ensure even curing. I also checked the surface every few hours to make sure it wasn’t cracking or warping.

Once the concrete was fully cured, I used a small brush to apply a concrete sealer. This helped protect the surface from moisture and made it easier to clean in the future. I applied two coats of sealer, waiting for each to dry completely before applying the next one.

After sealing, I used a fine-grit sanding block to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. This step took about 15 minutes and gave the concrete a polished finish. I found that sanding after sealing was crucial for achieving a professional look without damaging the surface.

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Attaching the Concrete Accents to the Keyboard

I used a strong adhesive specifically designed for concrete and wood — I chose a two-part epoxy that dried to a clear, strong bond. I applied a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the concrete accent and the corresponding area on the keyboard. I made sure to press the accent firmly into place and hold it for a few minutes to ensure a good bond.

I let the adhesive cure for 24 hours before using the keyboard. This allowed the bond to set completely and prevented any shifting or loosening. I also used a small level to check that the accent was evenly attached and aligned with the keyboard’s surface.

I found that using a small clamp or a rubber band helped keep the accent in place while the adhesive dried. This was especially useful for larger accents that required more pressure to secure. After attaching all the accents, I wiped away any excess adhesive with a damp cloth.

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Customizing Your Concrete Accents

I used different textures and patterns to create variety across the keyboard. For example, I used a metal mesh for one accent and a wood grain pattern for another. I also experimented with different colors by adding a small amount of pigment to the cement mix before pouring.

I found that using different molds allowed me to create unique shapes and sizes for the accents. This helped break up the design and make the keyboard look more dynamic. I also used a small sponge to apply a subtle pattern to the wet concrete before it dried.

I was surprised by how much the small changes in texture and color could affect the overall look of the keyboard. Even a few subtle details made a big difference in how the accents interacted with light and shadow.

Customizing your concrete accents is a great way to make your keyboard truly one-of-a-kind.

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Maintaining and Caring for Your Keyboard Accents

I used a soft cloth and mild soap to clean the accents whenever they got dirty. I also made sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the sealer. I found that a quick wipe with a damp cloth was usually enough to keep them clean.

I checked the sealer every few months and reapplied it if it started to wear off. This helped protect the surface from moisture and ensured the accents stayed looking new. I also kept the keyboard in a dry area to prevent any moisture buildup that could cause cracking.

I was surprised by how well the accents held up over time — even after a few months of use, they still looked great and showed no signs of wear. I found that the sealer was the key to their longevity, and I made sure to reapply it whenever needed.

How To Get Accents On A Keyboard