Step-by-Step Guide: How to Build Your Own Skateboard

Have you ever wondered how professional skateboarders get their hands on their personalized skateboards? Would you be surprised to know that making a skateboard can be a fun and exciting adventure? While it may sound like a daunting task for beginners, the process is much simpler than one might think. In this article, we will dive into the step-by-step guide on how to make a skateboard.

First and foremost, you need to gather all the necessary materials including a skateboard deck, grip tape, trucks, wheels, bearings, bolts, and a skate tool. It’s essential to keep in mind that the size and shape of the deck, the trucks, and wheels are completely based on personal preference. So, before making any purchases, it’s advisable to have a clear understanding of what kind of skateboard you want to create. With the materials in hand, let’s move on to the first step in making a skateboard – grip tape application.

Choosing the Right Deck

When it comes to making a skateboard, the deck is the most important component. It is the foundation upon which every other part is added, and it sets the tone for the skateboard’s performance and feel. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect deck for your skateboard:

1. Know your measurements

The length, width, and thickness of a skateboard deck all play a role in its performance. Generally speaking, a longer deck provides more stability, while a shorter one is more maneuverable. The width of the deck affects how well you can control the skateboard, with wider decks offering more stability and narrower ones being more maneuverable. The thickness of the deck affects its weight and stiffness, with thinner decks being lighter and more flexible.

2. Consider the shape

Skateboard decks come in a wide variety of shapes, from the classic popsicle shape to more unique and unconventional designs. The shape you choose will depend on your personal preferences, as well as the type of skateboarding you plan to do. Popsicle-shaped decks are versatile and suitable for most styles of skateboarding, while more specialized shapes may be better suited for specific types of skating.

3. Choose the right materials

Skateboard decks can be made from a variety of materials, but the most common are maple and bamboo. Maple is the industry standard due to its durability and stiffness, while bamboo is becoming more popular for its sustainability and flexibility. Other materials, such as carbon fiber and fiberglass, are also used for high-performance decks but are less common and more expensive.

4. Pay attention to the concave

The concave of a skateboard deck refers to the curvature along its length. Deeper concaves provide better control and grip, while flatter decks are more comfortable for cruising. Again, the type of concave you choose will depend on your skating style and personal preferences.

5. Don’t forget about the graphics

Finally, the graphics on your deck can add an element of style and personality to your skateboard. There are numerous designs available, from simple solid colors to intricate artwork and designs. Choose something that reflects your personality and helps you stand out.

By considering these factors when choosing a deck, you can ensure that your skateboard is well-suited for your skating style and preferences. Once you’ve selected your deck, it’s time to move on to the next step in the process: adding trucks and wheels.

Materials Needed

Before you get started, it’s important to have all the necessary materials at hand. Here are the things you’ll need to make a skateboard from scratch:

1. Plywood Sheets

Plywood sheets come in different types but birch plywood is the most popular for skateboard making. You’ll need two sheets that are about 30 inches long and 7-8 inches wide.

2. Grip Tape

Grip tape is a sandpaper-like material that you stick on top of your skateboard deck. It provides traction and prevents your feet from slipping off. You’ll need a sheet that’s about the same size as your deck.

3. Trucks

Trucks are the metal parts that attach the wheels to your skateboard. You’ll need two trucks that are compatible with your deck size.

4. Wheels

Wheels come in different sizes and hardness levels. Choose wheels that fit your trucks and the type of terrain you’ll be riding on.

5. Bearings

Bearings are small circular parts that fit inside your wheels. They allow your wheels to spin around the axle and help you roll smoothly. You’ll need eight bearings, one for each wheel.

6. Hardware

Hardware consists of bolts and nuts that hold your trucks to your deck. You’ll need eight bolts and nuts, one for each truck.

7. Jigsaw

A jigsaw is a handheld power tool that you’ll use to cut your plywood sheets into the shape of a skateboard deck.

8. Sandpaper

You’ll need sandpaper to smooth out the edges and surface of your skateboard deck.

9. Drill

A drill will be needed to make holes in your deck where the trucks and hardware will be attached.

10. Screwdriver

You’ll need a screwdriver to tighten the bolts and nuts that hold your trucks to your deck.

Once you have all these materials ready, you can move on to the next step of making your skateboard – shaping the deck.

The Materials You’ll Need to Make Your Skateboard

Making your skateboard is a fun and satisfying process that requires some basic materials. Before you start, make sure that you have all the tools and materials required to create your skateboard.

1. Skateboard Deck

The skateboard deck is the most essential part of the skateboard. It is the flat board that you stand on while skateboarding, and it must be strong enough to carry your weight. You can choose from a variety of deck sizes and shapes, depending on your preferences.

2. Grip Tape

Grip tape is a sandpaper-like material that is applied to the top of the skateboard deck. It increases the traction between your shoes and the board, preventing you from sliding off. When buying grip tape, make sure to choose one that is the same size as your skateboard deck.

3. Trucks

Trucks are the metal parts that connect the skateboard deck to the wheels. They are responsible for allowing you to turn by rotating the wheels. When purchasing trucks, make sure to choose ones that are the same size as your skateboard deck.

4. Wheels

Wheels come in various sizes and durometer ratings. The size of the wheel depends on the size of the skateboard deck, while the durometer rating determines the wheel’s hardness. Softer wheels are better for cruising, while harder wheels are better for performing tricks.

5. Bearings

Bearings are the small metal parts that fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin. They are a crucial component of skateboarding, so it’s important to invest in high-quality bearings.

Once you have all the necessary materials and tools, you’re ready to start building your skateboard! In the next section, we’ll look at how to assemble your skateboard.

Happy Skating!

Well, now you have all the knowledge you need to make your very own skateboard. It’s not a quick process but it sure is worth it. By building your own board, you can customize it to your exact liking, and in the end, you’ll have something unique and personal. Thanks for reading and good luck in creating your dream skateboard! Come back any time for more fun tips and tricks to enhance your skateboarding experience. Happy skating!