HandyWork
HandyWork is an ergonomic keyboard project for the Framework 16 by Axel Voitier, designed as a custom input module with staggered columnar layouts. It proposes 8 different layouts fitting the A1 design space, from a minimalist 36-key (5×3) Miryoku-compatible layout up to a 50-key (6×4) layout for users who prefer fewer layers12.
Design
HandyWork uses staggered columns with offsets inspired by popular ergo designs (Kyria, YAEMK, Handy). The middle, ring, pinky, and outer columns are splayed at 5–10–15–25 degree angles. Each layout variant has a printable version for testing, along with Ergogen YAML files and Keyboard Layout Editor JSON files2.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Creator | Axel Voitier |
| Form factor | Framework 16 input module (A1 size) |
| Layouts | 8 variants (36–50 keys) |
| Column stagger | Kyria + YAEMK + Handy inspired |
| Splay | 5–10–15–25° (absolute) or 5–5–5–5° (relative) |
| Source | GitHub |
Variants
| Layout | Keys | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 5×3 | 36 | Minimalist, Miryoku-compatible |
| 5×3 with mods | 42 | Direct modifier keys on outer columns |
| 5×3 with nav | 40 | Dedicated navigation cluster in center |
| 5×3 with mods + nav | 46 | Both direct modifiers and nav keys |
| 5×4 | 44 | Number row added |
| 5×4 with nav | 48 | Number row + nav cluster |
| 6×3 | 42 | Extra column for pinky |
| 6×4 | 50 | Full 6-column with number row |
Prototype Build
In April 2026, Voitier manufactured and validated the first working prototypes3. The completed build is a unibody-split 5×3 + 3 mods per side + 3 thumb keys + center nav cluster layout with a per-key LED matrix driven by an IS31FL3733B, running on an RP2040 with QMK firmware3.
To fit the Framework 16's tight clearance, the stack-up bonds a 4-layer 0.8 mm PCB to a 0.8 mm aluminum plate, with EVA foam padding, a mylar isolation sheet, and magnetic elements to seat it onto the laptop. The overall thickness matches the One Key Module at 3.65 mm3.
Voitier also released reusable design resources for the community34:
- KiCad template PCB — a pre-routed RP2040 + IS31FL3733B layout supporting 5 rows × 13 columns by default, with spare pins for expansion.
- Framework.pretty footprints — base footprints for the One Key Module and A1 form-factor boards.
- Fabrication files with an ordering guide (a new revision was teased), plus firmware source. Full assembly instructions were still pending at the time of the update.
Framework selected the project for its One Key Module developer program, supplied the OKMs, reviewed the design, and sponsored manufacturing of the first prototype. The keyboard was on display at Framework's Next Gen event on April 21, 20263.