Professional skimboards are works of art, science, and design. But you don't necessarily need a high-end skimboard to shred and have fun. Let's learn how to shape a skimboard.
The good news is that producing your own skimboard isn't expensive. With a couple of phone calls, you will get all tools and equipment you need to cut the leaf and ride it.
If you want to shape a skimboard, start by doing it with wood materials.
They're easy to cut, sand, glue, and paint. A wood plank is also relatively cheap, especially if you visit a large do-it-yourself store.
Tools and Materials
So, what do you need to make your first skimboard?
- Two 1/4-inch, 52'' x 20'' marine plywood boards;
- Jigsaw;
- Duct tape;
- Waterproof wood glue;
- Varnish spreader;
- Assorted sandpaper;
- Clamps;
- Polyurethane varnish or fiberglass resin;
- Paint or permanent marker;
Shaping a Skimboard
Now that you've gathered all gear and materials, let's learn how to shape a skimboard:
- Spread glue on one side of a marine plywood board;
- Get the two boards together;
- Clamp the board up tight;
- Put a weight in the center of the glued board to create a slight concave curve;
- Let the glued board dry for 24 hours;
- Draw the desired template;
- Use the jigsaw to cut the skimboard shape;
- Sand the edges and smooth out both sides of the board;
- Apply four layers of varnish/resin on the bottom;
- Custom paint your skimboard;
- Apply two layers of varnish/resin on the top;
- Let it dry for 24 hours;
Unsure about the size of your plank? Explore our skimboard size chart. Need a new board? Learn how to buy a skimboard.