You can customize a skateboard deck in a number of ways. For example, you could add stickers or change the grip tape. However, adding your own design is one of the best and longest-lasting ways to customize your deck, and it puts your personal stamp on it. Determine what image you want on your deck, then add it yourself.
Customizing Your Deck
Step 1
Remove any hardware from your skateboard deck. Place the deck bottom-up on a flat, stable surface. Sand the deck with fine sandpaper to remove any roughness from the surface, and continue until you have removed any screen-printed designs. You might want to wear gloves for this. Wipe down any residue from the deck, using a damp cloth, and let the deck dry.
Step 2
Draw a template for your design onto thin cardboard, using a marker pen. Cut around the template with scissors or razor blade so you are left with the outline of your design.
Step 3
Tape the design template onto the deck in the display position. Using the marker pen, draw around the outline of your design to transfer it to the deck, or use spray paint to transfer your design as one single block of color (This works well for designs such as lettering that don't require much detail). Remove the template and tape from the board, let the deck dry.
Step 4
Fill in any extra details of your design, or add finishing touches and colors using marker pens. Once you are happy with your design, let it dry again.
Step 5
Add a layer of clear lacquer or varnish to protect your design. Spread it evenly, using smooth brushstrokes. Let the first coat to dry, and apply a second coat if needed.
Step 6
Lightly sand down the surface again sand paper to smooth it out and remove any bumps of lacquer or varnish. Wipe down the deck with a damp cloth. Reattach the hardware, and go for a skate to show your friends your new design.
Things You'll Need
- Fine sandpaper
- Gloves
- Damp cloth
- Marker pens
- Thin cardboard
- Scissors or razor blade
- Masking tape
- Spray paint
- Clear lacquer or varnish
- Paintbrush
Member Comments