How to Build a Deck Skateboard Kit
Skateboard decks (the wooden board upon which the rider stands) have evolved greatly over the years. Most modern skateboard decks are composed of seven- to nine-ply hard Canadian maple. For the most durable skateboard, use nine veneers when fashioning the deck.
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Things You'll Need
- 9 uncut veneers of Canadian hard maple, 11 x 50.5 x 1/16"
- 11 x 50.5 x 2" uncut slab of high-density foam
- Heavy-duty 14 x 47" veneer bag with one-way air valve
- Hand saw
- Plastic mesh netting
- Rubber bands
- Vacuum pump
- Skateboard glue (cross-linking polyvinyl adhesive)
- Roller
- Sandpaper
- Utility knife
Instructions
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1
Cut the veneers and the foam slab to match the shape of the board you want. You will use the foam as a mold for the veneers.
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2
Use the roller to coat one of the veneers with skateboard glue and place it on the foam slab mold. Roll two more veneers and place them on the slab.
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3
Use two rubber bands to hold the three glued veneers to the mold. Wrap the veneers and mold with the plastic netting and place them into the veneer bag.
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4
Use the vacuum pump to evacuate all the air in the vacuum bag. Try to remove the air equally around the board to reduce air bubbles. Allow the veneers one day to dry.
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5
Remove the veneers from the bag. Repeat Steps 2 through 4 with three new veneers and then again with the last veneer. Use sandpaper to smooth out the finished deck.
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Tips & Warnings
Use glues that are environmentally friendly.
Some adhesives are corrosive. Use caution when applying them.
