The Garderie TKL

Introducing the Design Team:

The Garderie TKL is a project brought to life by the UK-based design group, Dropouts. Inspired by a sense of community and togetherness, this design reflects the passion and expertise of a team dedicated to blending classic keyboard aesthetics with modern sensibilities. With years of experience in the hobby, Dropouts set out to create a product that honours the past while adding their unique touch.

• Unusual: CAD designer with two years of experience creating custom commissions for MKUK and others worldwide.
• Basil: Artisan maker, known for popular sculpts like Gertie, Boots, and Pepper, now contributing graphic design expertise from Sweden.
• MTP and VintageKish: Accountants by trade and keyboard enthusiasts, they handle project management, finances, QC, and shipping.

Together, they successfully ran the Daycare60 group buy and form an important part of the UK keyboard community. We are deeply proud to be the fulfilment partner for the UK and Europe. We especially appreciate the theme of togetherness - something more important than ever in our world.

Garderie TKL (via Dropouts):

Taking inspiration from some iconic past designs, this board was crafted with the theme of togetherness in mind. The case boasts a dual configuration build, with an 18mm front height and a comfortable 7° typing angle. 

This board was developed as an ode to the classic TKLs that once dominated the hobby, bringing a new flair to the old-school style with its curved side profile, exaggerated seams, and light-hearted weight design. As a collective, we understand how tough it is to be decisive, which is why we have chosen to offer an additional top case and a range of plate options to maximise the flexibility of your Garderie builds.

This is a group-buy listing with an estimated fulfilment in Q2 2025 and the group buy runs from 21st October to the 18th November.

Detailed Specifications:

• Layout: F12 WKL TKL
• Case Materials: Anodised aluminium (top and bottom)
• Weight: Clear coat brass weight
• Typing Angle: 7°
• Front Height: 18mm
• Mounting: Top mount or O-ring configuration
• Weight and Dimensions: Case and weight total approximately 2000g (final weight pending)

Core Kit Includes:

• 1 x Anodised top case (teal or champagne)
• 1 x Anodised bottom case (silver)
• 1 x Clear coat brass weight
• 1 x Aluminium plate (colour matched to the top case)
• 1 x Waffling80 PCB
• 1 x C3 Unified Daughterboard
• 1 x 200mm JST cable
• 1 x Screw kit
• 1 x 250mm O-ring
• 1 x Carrying case
• 5 x AKB feet

Optional Extras:

• Additional top case (teal or champagne)
• Spare plate (PP, PC, or Carbon Fibre)

Group Buy Format, Timeline, and Disclaimers:

This is a group buy listing, meaning that the product will only be manufactured after enough pre-orders are collected to meet the minimum order quantity (MOQ). Please note that group buys carry inherent risks and uncertainties, and it is important to understand the following:

Timeline:

Estimated fulfilment for this group buy is Q2 2025. However, delays in production, shipping, or customs are common and should be expected. The timeline is an estimate, not a guarantee.

Shipping Options:

We are pleased to offer two shipping methods for your convenience:
Royal Mail Tracked 48: A 2-day tracked service with compensation of up to £100.
Royal Mail Special Delivery: Guaranteed next-day delivery with compensation up to £500 (upgradable for an additional fee)

Buyer Protection:

While every effort is made to ensure quality and timely delivery, participation in a group buy inherently carries risk. Refunds may be possible if the group buy is cancelled or if the MOQ is not met. However, there is no guarantee of immediate refunds, and in some cases, resolving issues can be slow.

Product Quality and Design:

Products may vary slightly from the initial renders due to manufacturing processes, especially in terms of colour matching and finishing. While our team will make every effort to maintain high standards, some discrepancies may occur.

Changes and Modifications:

Once the group buy closes, changes to order quantities are no longer possible as that capital will have been sent to the manufacturer. Please make sure your shipping details and selections are correct before placing your order​ but these details can be changed if you move address

Delays and Communication:

The production and fulfilment process may take longer depending on factors such as factory workload and unforeseen circumstances. Regular updates will be provided, but please be patient as we work through the process.

For the most up to date and live information about the project I encourage you to join the design team's discord server. Link on the product page. ThX will direct you to the Dropouts for most questions. 

By participating in this group buy, you acknowledge and accept these terms and understand the risks involved. We do not expect these risks to come to pass, but it's important to be informed. We appreciate your support and look forward to delivering a product you'll love!