How to Build a Bodyboard

You can own a completely unique bodyboard by building one yourself. By taking the time to learn, you can determine how every aspect of the bodyboard is constructed. You'll have a piece of equipment customized to you and unavailable anywhere else.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Foam core
• Measuring tape
• Electric knife
• Sand paper
• Spray paint
• Fiber cloth
• Resin
• 3 Paint brushes

1. Cut the foam core to the size and shape you want with an electric carving knife. A general rule of thumb is that the length of the board should equal the distance between your toes and your waist and be as wide as the distance between your wrist and shoulder.
2. Sand the sides of your bodyboard so the rails curve downward. Build the bodyboard rocker into the foam core by sanding away excess material to sculpt the perfect shape.
3. Add color by using a light-weight spray paint. Test your choice on a scrap piece first, as many spray paints will damage foam core, effectively melting it.
4. Flip the board upside down and cover it with fiber cloth. Cut the cloth so it just reaches to the top of the board and tape it in place with masking tape. Be sure to remove all the air bubbles before moving on to the next step.
5. Paint resin onto the bodyboard very gently. Be careful not to disturb the fiber cloth. Continue until the fiber cloth is completely saturated the on bottom and sides. Allow the bodyboard to dry for two full days.
6. Flip the board over and add the fiber cloth to the top, just as you did to the bottom. Repeat the resin process, saturating the sides and then allowing the board to dry for another two days.
7. Apply resin to the entire board. This is known as glassing the board. Glass the board three times, allowing it to dry fully between coats. Sand the final product with a fine grit sandpaper and buff to a shine.