In one aspect, a keycap for use in backlit keyboards is provided. The keycap includes a translucent base having a surface with a layer of paint applied directly onto the surface. The layer of paint is capable of blocking at least some light that passes through the translucent base when the keycap is backlit. A groove is etched on the surface that defines the shape of a symbol. The groove penetrates the layer of paint completely, thus exposing parts of the translucent base that are hidden underneath the layer of paint. Because the translucent base is exposed by the groove, when the keycap is backlit, the symbol may appear to glow while the rest of the keycap's surface may appear to remain dark. The symbol may be a letter, number, or any other symbol one might want to put on a keyboard key.