Skateboarding is a very popular recreational sport. Read on to know how you can make your own skateboard deck in four easy-to-follow steps.
Skateboards started appearing in the United States in the 1950s. Initially, they were not much popular; but due to high demand by mid 1960s; manufacturers started mass producing them.
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Today skateboarding is one of the most important sport in the culture of the United States and is also practiced in many other countries worldwide.
In the initial years, the models were quite simple and the board was operated on simple principles of physics. However, as the demand started increasing, manufacturers introduced many mass production techniques in order to boost the production capacities.
Today, the models have become quite advanced, and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. All the manufacturers have some or the other unique feature in their designs.
Components of a Skateboard
Deck
The deck is the small platform on which the skateboarder stands.
Trucks
The truck is one of the most important innovation in the design. It acts like an axle, and holds the pair of wheels and reduces the friction that is developed during the motion. It also connects the wheels to the deck.
Wheels
The wheels are usually made up of polyurethane. The wheels transfer the potential energy of the skateboard into kinetic energy and eventually sets it into motion.
Bearings
The axle of the truck is connected to the wheels to empower appropriate locomotion. The ball bearings are placed in between the axle and wheels in order to minimize the friction and enable a smooth and speedy motion.
Accessories and other hardware
The accessories include other hardware that enhances the performance of the skateboard and also increases the safety of the skateboarder.
These accessories include, rails, slip tape, ladder, nose guard, tail guard, and angled risers. These accessories are not exactly necessary, however, they tend to increase the performance.
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Instructions for Making a Skateboard Deck
Skateboarders are often in search of unique features, designs, and techniques that they can integrate in their own skateboards. Here are the steps that you can follow for making the deck and customizing your skateboard.
Requirements
● Maple sheets ● Jigsaw ● Sandpaper ● Primer ● Paint ● Varnish ● Wood glue ● Wood saw
Procedure
Step 1:The sheets of Maple wood should ideally measure 15 cm in height. Glue together the sheets and let them dry for a few hours.
Step 2: Cut the glued wooden sheets in the dimensions of 29" to 30" in length and 7.5" to 8.5" in width.
Step 3: To give your skateboard the appropriate shape, use a pencil and another skateboard and sketch out the outline. Then, using the wood saw, cut off the desired shape.
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Step 4: Put a coat of primer on the deck, and let it dry for a few hours. After the primer has dried out, paint some attractive designs on the deck and then give it a coat of varnish.
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After you have prepared the deck, you will need to attach the truck and wheels. You can use them from an old skateboard.
You can also purchase brand new ones from a sports shop. After you are done with the assembly, give your new skateboard a test ride and do a few tricks.