How to Make Your Own Skim Board

Use a planer to fix any imperfections of the skimboard.

If your favorite beach destination does not have waves big enough for surfing, try out the high-speed sport of skim-boarding. As opposed to riding the ocean waves, cruise across the shallow water that washes onto the beach. According to Exile Skimboards, top-of-the-line models of skim boards feature a carbon fiber design and cost upwards of $400. Construct a custom skim board at home to save money. Test out your homemade skim board during your next visit to the beach.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard
• 4-by-8-foot plywood, 1/2 inch thick
• Carpenter's pencil
• Jigsaw
• Planer
• Electric sander
• Waterproof paint

Instructions

1. Cut out the shape of your homemade skim board from a large sheet of cardboard. Align the cardboard cutout over your piece of plywood. Trace the outline of the skim board onto the wood using a carpenter's pencil.

2. Cut along the pencil line using a jigsaw. Fasten your newly cut skim board into a clamp. Rub the planer around the edge of the skim board to smooth any imperfections in the wood.

3. Insert the plug of your sander into a nearby outlet. Sand around your homemade skim board to round off the edges. Apply a coat of waterproof paint onto both sides of your homemade skim board.

4. Allow the paint to dry for 30 to 45 minutes. Test out your new skim board at the beach. Make any necessary adjustments using the jigsaw.

References

• Exile Skimboards: Price Guide
• Surfing Waves: How to Make a Skimboard
• Skim Online: Introduction To Skimboarding

Resources

• Skimboarder: Skimboarder Magazine