Introduction: Fun Project for a Rainy Day Numero Uno: Repaint That Ol' Skatedeck You've Got Lying Around
Hey there!
I'm not sure about you, but I've been having a pretty rainy day. Lately I've been inspired to rework my old skateboard decks, and with a rainy day out I figured, "hey, why not fix up another?". This time I document the process, and decided to share it with all yous guys incase you've ever thought of repainting your old skate decks! (Or incase you're looking for a different art project for a rainy day).
Step 1: Tools and Supplies Needed
Now that you've decided to begin this endeavor, you will need to make sure you have the equipment!
If your skateboard is still attached to its wheels, then you will need a screw driver and a wrench. ( I have found that the 9/16 size works for all of my skateboards). Plastic baggies help keep all the hardware in place, but are optional.
You'll also need sandpaper, or sanding blocks to remove the paint, and smooth out any imperfections. I like to use sanding blocks. However if you would like to save some time feel free to use a power sander! (Sanding the deck by hand is a surprisingly enjoyable process though, and a great arm workout). You may want to wear a mask/bandana, and/or goggles to prevent too much of the paint dust from going in your system.
And lastly you will need painting supplies. Brushes in assorted sizes, which ever colors your design calls for, newspaper or paper bags to lay out on your painting surface, a cup with water, paper towels/rags, and a clear coat spray. I find acrylic paints work quite well, as do spray paints.
Step 2: Time to Take Out the Trucks
Alrighty, now that that you have your skate deck, your design, and your supplies, it's time to get it crackin'!
The first thing you will need to do is remove the trucks and hardware. Grab your wrench, screwdriver, and if you decided to use it, your plastic baggy. This part is quite simple, hook the wrench up to the locking nut, and man the screwdriver. Either hold the wrench in place and twist the screwdriver lefty loosey, or twist the wrench and hold the screwdriver in place, personal preference.
As you remove each piece, remember to set it in a safe place! (Be it your baggy, or wherever).
Step 3: Sand 'Er Up!
Now that the trucks are off, it's time to sand 'er up!
Grab your sander, sand paper, or sanding block, and start moving. I tend to go length wise in direction. I am not sure if there is a more effective way to go about it.
As you sand it down, it's neat to see all the layers of paint the factories use.
Once all of the paint is removed, I like to go over the deck with a very fine sand paper to smooth out any imperfections.
Step 4: Time to Paint
Now that you are all sanded, give the deck a good wipe down. Take a slightly damp rag or paper towel and wipe it across to remove any excess paint deck.
This next step gives you many options! You can go free hand, use a previous drawing, or make a stencil. For this particular board I chose to go free hand. I knew I wanted some of the natural wood to show, and that I would be using one of my good ol' pals Smokiee. (Smokiee and I met in Chemistry class in high school, and we've kept in touch ever since!). That being said, I made a tentative outline of where my character would be, and created a "base coat".
If you choose to use an old drawing, you can make a copy of it, color the back in graphite, and then trace it over the board creating an impression of your sketch!
If you would like to make a stencil, I highly recommend using mylar. It hasn't done me wrong yet!
Step 5: Take Yo' Time Mayne
This is the fun part! No need to rush. Work until you are happy with your piece.
Remember to take pictures, because it may not look that fresh for long with all that skating you'll be doing!
And sign it too!
Once you are happy with your design, take it outside and apply 1 to 3 layers of clear coat, to seal it on nice and gewwd.
And there you go! You can now either hang you deck up on a wall, or put the trucks back on and go skate once the weather clears up :)
