How to Make a Skateboard

Skateboards come in all shapes and sizes. If you like to work with wood, you can make your own skateboard. When you make your own, you can design it just the way you want it at a fraction of the cost of a ready-made skateboard.

Things You'll Need

• Skateboard blank
• Drill and drill bits
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain
• Decals (optional)
• Paint (optional)
• Paintbrush
• Trucks
• Bolts
• Risers
• Wheels
• Polyurethane sealer
• Grip tape

Instructions

1. Purchase a skateboard blank. This piece of wood veneer has been put together in such a way that is can withstand the twisting and turning motions of an avid skateboarder. You can do it yourself, but it takes a lot of time, effort and special tools.

2. Mark the holes for the trucks. The holes must be in proper alignment or you may never be able to skate in a straight line. Drill the holes.

3. Sand the skateboard's surface and edge until it is smooth. If you have a hand sander, this can speed up this step or you can sand the skateboard by hand.

4. Stain the skateboard. You can use a natural wood stain, or you can choose to paint your board any combination of colors. Let the skateboard dry.

5. Apply decals to the underside of the board. Or you may opt to paint a design on the underside of the board. This is a great way to make your skateboard unique. If you paint on a design let it dry.

6. Paint polyurethane sealer on the skateboard. Let it dry.

7. Put the wheel assembly together. Attach the wheels to the skateboard. Finish the skateboard with grip tape on the deck.