Make a Skateboard Deck Workshop
The Skateboard Deck workshop run by specialist technician Gregor Garber gives you the oppurtunity to create your very own custom graphic skateboard. For more information and how to book please contact Gregor Garber. Below you can see a step by step process for creating a skateboard deck.
Skateboard Deck Workshop process
To start you will have 7 layers of 1.5mm thick maple veneer. Your chosen design should be printed on one of the face layers
Using extra strong PVA glue the 7 layers are laminated in the following order:
- Face (long grain veneer)
- Core (long grain veneer)
- Crossband (cross grain veneer)
- Core (long grain veneer)
- Crossband (cross grain veneer)
- Core (long grain veneer)
- Face (long grain veneer)
Pour Glue on one side of the bottom layer and spread using a suitable spreader or roller
Once spread, layer the veneers on top of one another repeating the gluing process each time
Place all layers of veneer between two plastic sheets to protect the design and the bag press from glue stains
Carefully insert the pile into the bag press and centre over the mould
Place a piece of breather material betwen the deck and valve to avoid a vacuum trap around the valve
Seal the bag by neatly placing the plastic ends between the wooden sealing batons and hold in place using clamps
Insert the pipe and switch on the bag press
Once all air has been removed keep the pump running for a further 2 hours
Once removed from the press you will be left with a deck ready for profiling and finishing
Next you will need to decide on a width for your skateboard by choosing one of the cutting templates
Mark out the shape of the template on the top side and using a bandsaw cut out the profile. Makre sure to keep the section you are cutting flat on the bandsaw table
Sand the edges round using the belt sander
Round the edges using the hand router, and when needed use the bobbin sander for places the router cannot reach
Finish by hand sanding the deck ready for varnishing
Using our truck template place on the bank of the deck and drill holes through. On the top side countersink these holes for the screws to sit in
Apply a first coat of varnish to the whole deck. Use the deck holder to apply a coat to the underside
Once the first coat is dry use 320-400 grit sandpaper and give the whole deck a quick sand
Apply a second coat of varnish
Thats it for now! Check back for updates on how to fix the grip tape and trucks
