Spend some time in the PC modding community and you quickly realize that every builder approaches projects in their own way. Some chase performance, others experiment with lighting or minimalist design.
For Derek Wilson, the creator behind GrimRoot Studio, the process often begins somewhere else entirely — with an idea, a material, or a visual concept he wants to bring to life.
Based in Canada, Derek has been modding PCs since 2019. Over the years he has developed a style that leans heavily toward hands-on craftsmanship. Wood, leather, sculpted elements and textured materials frequently appear in his builds, giving them a look that feels closer to a handcrafted piece than a traditional computer system.
Getting Into Modding
Derek’s journey into modding did not begin with elaborate projects or competition builds. Like many enthusiasts, it started with something simple: building computers for personal use and helping friends put their systems together.
At first the changes were small — adjusting components, experimenting with paint, or adding little details that made each system feel slightly different from the last. Over time those small experiments became more creative projects. Looking back, Derek describes the process in a very straightforward way:
I got into modding organically, starting out by building for myself and friends, and wanting to add special touches to each build to make them unique.
Those early experiments eventually led to the creation of GrimRoot Studio, where he continues to develop new ideas and push his builds further.
A Hands-On Style
One of the first things people notice about GrimRoot Studio projects is the way Derek approaches materials.
Many modern PC mods rely heavily on pre-made components or digital fabrication tools. Derek tends to go in the opposite direction. He enjoys working with materials that can be shaped or modified directly by hand.
Woodworking, leather accents, sculpted pieces and terrain textures all appear in his builds from time to time. These elements allow him to create systems that feel less like standard PC hardware and more like something built piece by piece.
It is also a slower process. Instead of rushing through a build, Derek prefers taking his time and refining details along the way.
I like to take a hands-on approach and build in a slow and careful way. The amount of effort put into a project is always reflected in the end result.
Anyone familiar with modding knows that the most memorable projects often come together exactly like this — gradually, with plenty of iteration.
The Razor Crest Project
Among Derek’s projects, one that stands out was created for the Canadian Modding Competition organized through Dazmode.
For this challenge, he decided to recreate the look of The Razor Crest, the iconic spacecraft from the Star Wars universe.
Instead of simply decorating a PC case with themed elements, Derek designed the entire system so that the build itself resembled the ship. The finished project looked as much like a display model as it did a working computer. The system is powered by a Seasonic FOCUS SGX-650, a compact SFX-L power supply that fits perfectly in custom builds where space and reliability both matter.
The idea resonated with the judges, and the build ultimately won first place in the competition. For Derek, it remains one of his most memorable projects.
Working with Seasonic
For modders, reliability matters just as much as design. Custom builds often involve unusual layouts or tight spaces, which means dependable hardware is essential.
Derek has used Seasonic power supplies in several of his builds and appreciates how the company interacts with the modding community.
In particular, he mentions how accessible the brand has been for creators who want to share their projects.
Seasonic has always been very real and approachable, having one of the only simple ways for a modder to share their project with a hardware brand.
That kind of relationship helps strengthen the connection between modders and the hardware they build with.
Inspiration Behind the Builds
Ideas for projects can come from many places.
For Derek, inspiration often comes from a mix of influences — video games, films, pop culture, and the work of other modders in the community. Sometimes a particular theme drives the design, while other times a project begins simply with a material or technique he wants to experiment with. That flexibility is part of what makes modding so interesting.
Future Projects
Like most modders, Derek always has new ideas in mind. One concept he would like to explore is a desk-integrated PC, where the computer hardware becomes part of the furniture itself. Woodworking would play a major role in that kind of project.
Another idea moves in a more experimental direction: a weathered robotic figure placed on a desk, with computer components integrated inside the structure and subtle interactive elements.
Projects like these show how creative PC modding can become when imagination meets technical skill.
Follow GrimRoot Studio
If you would like to see more of Derek’s work, you can follow GrimRoot Studio here:
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@grimrootstudio2
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grimrootstudio
Want to Collaborate With Seasonic?
We actively support creative modding projects that align with our standards for engineering, performance, and design. If you’re planning a unique build and believe Seasonic should be part of it, we’d like to hear your proposal.
➡️ Submit your project through our Modding Support Request form
➡️ Explore the Seasonic PSU line-up to select the right platform
➡️ Join our Social Club to connect with the community