Skateboarding is a hugely popular activity, enjoyed by people of all ages across the globe. Many skateboarders enjoy customizing their boards, and one way to do this is by creating your own skateboard deck.
Making your own skateboard deck is a fun and rewarding project. Not only will you have a unique board, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you made it yourself. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a skateboard deck using basic tools and materials.
What will you need to make Deck?
- Plywood
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Circular saw
- Jigsaw
- Sandpaper
- Grip tape
- Deck screws
How to Make a Skateboard Deck? Step by Step Guide
Step 1. Skateboard Veneer
The first step is to find some skateboard veneer. This is the thin layer of wood that covers the top of the skateboard. It’s usually about 1/16 of an inch thick. You can find this at your local skate shop or online.
Step 2: Layer the veneers in order
Now that you have your veneer, it’s time to start layering it. You will need seven pieces of veneer for this project. The first piece should be the same size as the deck. The next six pieces should be slightly smaller, about 1/8 of an inch shorter on each side.
Step 3: Glue the veneers together
Now that you have your veneers in order, it’s time to glue them together. You will need a strong adhesive for this step. We recommend using epoxy or super glue. Apply a generous amount of glue to the first veneer and then place the second veneer on top. Repeat this process until all seven veneers are glued together.
Step 4: Press and cure the deck
Once all of the veneers are glued together, it’s time to press and cure the deck. This will help the deck retain its shape and prevent it from warping. To do this, place the deck in a vise or clamp it to a flat surface. Then, apply pressure to the deck with your hands or a weight. Let the deck cure for 24 hours.
Step 5: Trace the outline of the deck
Once the glue is dry, it’s time to trace the outline of the deck. You can do this by tracing around the edge of the deck with a pencil. Make sure to leave about 1/4 of an inch on each side. This will give you enough room to cut out the shape later.
Step 6: Cut out the shape
Now that you have the outline of the deck, it’s time to cut out the shape. You can do this with a jigsaw or a circular saw. If you’re using a jigsaw, make sure to use a sharp blade. Otherwise, you might end up with a ragged edge.
Step 7: Sand the edges
Once you’ve cut out the shape of the deck, it’s time to sand the edges. This will help to smooth out any rough edges and give the deck a nice finished look. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and work your way up to a finer grit.
Step 8: Measure and drill truck holes into the deck
The next step is to measure and drill the truck holes into the deck. You will need two holes for the trucks. The first hole should be about 1 inch from the nose of the deck. The second hole should be about 1 inch from the tail. Use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the trucks you will be using. This will ensure a tight fit.
Step 9: Gloss with lacquer
Once you have drilled the truck holes, it’s time to gloss the deck with lacquer. This will help to protect the wood and give it a nice shine. Apply a thin layer of lacquer to the deck and let it dry. Repeat this process until the entire surface is covered.
Step 10: Apply grip tape
The final step is to apply grip tape to the deck. This will help to keep your feet in place while you’re riding. Start by peeling off the backing of the grip tape. Then, apply the tape to the deck, starting at the nose and working your way back. Use a credit card or a piece of cardboard to smooth out any bubbles. Once the entire surface is covered, trim off the excess tape with a knife or scissors.
There you have it! Now you know how to make a skateboard deck.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the complete guide to making a skateboard deck. It’s not as hard as it might seem and with a little practice you can make some pretty sweet decks of your own. Just be sure to use high-quality materials and take your time with each step to ensure that your deck is durable and looks great.
FAQs
How much does it cost to make a skateboard deck?
The cost of making a skateboard deck will vary depending on the materials you use. Expect to spend around $50 on the wood and other materials needed to make a high-quality deck.
How long does it take to make a skateboard deck?
It will take around 8 hours to make a skateboard deck from start to finish. This includes cutting the wood, gluing the veneers together, and pressing and curing the deck.
What are the dimensions of a skateboard deck?
The standard dimensions of a skateboard deck are 7.75 inches wide by 31.5 inches long. However, there is no set size so you can make your deck any size you want. Just keep in mind that the larger the deck, the more stability you will sacrifice.
What is the best wood for a skateboard deck?
The best wood for a skateboard deck is maple. Maple is strong and stiff, making it ideal for skateboarding. It also has a nice grain pattern that looks great when finished.