Elena Rossi
Skateboards can be customised by painting them, which is often done to add a personalised touch to the board. The process of painting a skateboard involves sanding the surface, priming it, and then spraying on coats of paint. However, the paint on a skateboard is susceptible to scratches and scuffs, especially in areas that come into contact with rough surfaces. To prevent the paint from scratching off, a fixative topcoat can be applied. Additionally, the desired aesthetic may be a distressed look, in which case fewer coats of paint are applied so that it wears off more quickly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Painting a skateboard | Requires sanding the surface, priming, and spray painting |
| Layers of paint | As many as desired, but let each layer dry before applying the next |
| Sanding | Use 400 grit sandpaper to sand the board before painting; can also use 1000 grit wet-sanding sandpaper between coats for a smoother finish |
| Stencils | Use stencils to create designs; remove when the paint is dry to the touch but not completely dry |
| Fixative topcoat | Recommended to finish with a couple of layers to protect the paint |
| Paint type | Posca paints are suitable; no need for specific paint as it will get scratched during use |
| Number of coats | Apply one to two coats for a worn-out look that wears off quickly |
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What You'll Learn
Sanding the board
To sand the board, you will need to protect yourself with a respirator and protective eyewear. The next step is to choose the right sander and sandpaper. If you see a weave on the deck, it is glassed, so be careful not to sand down to the fabric. You can use 80-grit sandpaper to remove the paint and graphics, and then 100, 120, 180, or 220-grit sandpaper to remove any swirl marks and create a smooth surface. If you are going to paint the board, you don't need to sand it down to the bare wood, just create a smooth surface. Once you have finished sanding, you can use a sanding sealer, and then a clear lacquer or Tung oil to finish the board.
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Applying primer
Prepare the Surface:
Before applying primer, ensure that the skateboard surface is smooth and free of any irregularities. Use 150-grit sandpaper to sand down the repaired areas and create a uniform surface. Apply firm, regular pressure when sanding for about five minutes until the surface is even. Then, use 300-grit sandpaper to achieve a smoother finish, ensuring the surface is free of deep scratches.
Protect Your Work Area:
Set up your work area by laying a tarp or drop cloth to protect surfaces from primer and paint. The process of sanding and painting can create a lot of dust and splatter, so ensure you are wearing appropriate protection, including a dust mask and protective eyewear. The area should also be well-ventilated to avoid the buildup of toxic spray paint fumes.
Tape Off Areas:
Use painter's tape to cover the sides and topside screw holes of your deck. This step is crucial to avoid drips or streaks along the edges and grip of your board. The tape will help create clean lines and prevent primer and paint from getting into unwanted areas.
Apply the Primer:
Choose an aerosol primer for a more even application. Follow the directions provided with your chosen primer. Hold the aerosol can at the recommended distance from the board and apply light, even coats. Allow each layer of primer to dry completely before applying the next coat. Thirty minutes between coats is usually sufficient, but refer to your primer's instructions.
Sand the Primed Surface:
Once the primer is dry, use 150-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the primed board. Use gentle back-and-forth motions to remove any clumps, bubbles, or irregularities. Be careful not to over-sand to the point of exposing the grain of the wood. After sanding, use a soft-bristled brush or a lint-free rag to wipe away all sawdust from the board. Ensure the board is thoroughly cleaned, as any remaining sawdust can cause issues with your paint job.
Apply a Tack Coat:
A tack coat is a thinning agent that prepares the primed surface for spray paint. Use a lacquer thinner (not a paint thinner) that matches your chosen acrylic spray paint. Gently run a paper towel or rag wet with the thinning agent along the primed surface to clean and prepare it for paint. Avoid using fuzzy materials that may leave lint on the board. Do not touch the cleaned surface with your hands, as this can transfer oil or dust and affect your paint application.
By following these steps for applying primer, you will create a smooth base for your paint, ensuring a professional-looking finish for your customised skateboard.
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Spray painting
Once the skateboard is prepared, you can start thinking about the paint. Primer is an important base coat that will help your paint job look professional. It is recommended to use an aerosol primer as this reduces the risk of an uneven application. Lightly spray the primer in long, light sprays going in the nose-tail direction of the deck. Shake the aerosol can for around 2 minutes before use and hold it at the recommended distance from the board while applying. Allow each layer of primer to dry completely, which will usually take around 30 minutes. You can apply a second layer of primer for a better surface. If you want to paint over a large area, you can use a paintbrush with your primer, but be careful not to apply too much in some spots and too little in others.
After the primer is dry, you can start applying your chosen paint colour. Lightly spray the base colour, ensuring an even, thin layer of paint covers the board. You do not want to apply too much paint on the first pass. This technique is called "tacking" and will give the next layers something to bond to. Once the tack coat is dry, apply another layer of paint, this time a bit heavier. Remember, less is more. You do not want to overdo it and get runs, but you also do not want to go too thin as this will make the paint look cloudy. Allow the paint to dry between coats and apply as many layers as you want. If you are layering colours, make sure to wait for the bottom layers to completely dry before applying tape, stickers, or other design elements.
Once you are happy with your paint job, you can apply a clear coat for a nice, glossy finish that will protect your paint. Apply one light coat, one medium coat, and one heavy coat. If you want a rougher, more worn look, only apply one to two coats of paint so that it wears off more quickly. Always wear protective eyewear and a dust mask when sanding and spray painting to avoid irritating your eyes, throat, and lungs.
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Layering colours
Painting your skateboard allows you to personalize it and make it your own. If you are layering colours, it is important to wait for the bottom layers to completely dry before applying tape, stickers, or any other design elements. If you do not, you risk ruining the finish and having to start over.
Before painting, you will need to sand the surface of the skateboard, prime it, and then spray on your coats of paint. You can apply as many layers and design elements as you like, but be sure to let the deck dry between coats.
If you are painting over a skateboard that already has a graphic, it is best to remove the existing graphic by sanding it off. You can also use stencils to create designs on your skateboard. To do this, apply your stencil to the skateboard, let the paint dry, and then remove the stencil when the paint is dry to the touch but not 100% dry. This will allow for a smoother line and peel-off process.
If you enjoy the look of a board that appears well-used, only apply one to two coats of paint so that the paint wears off more quickly. Remember, the more coats of paint you apply, the longer it will last.
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Using a fixative topcoat
Painting your skateboard is a fun way to personalize it and make it stand out. If you want your artwork to last, using a fixative topcoat is essential. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to paint your skateboard and protect it with a fixative topcoat:
Prepare the Surface:
Before you start painting, it's important to prepare the surface of your skateboard. Remove the wheels and trucks from your board to avoid getting paint on them. If your board has grip tape, use a tarp to protect your work surface, as the grip can easily scratch surfaces. Start by lightly sanding the surface of your board to make it smooth. Use a finer grit sandpaper, such as 150-grit or 300-grit, to ensure the surface is free of deep scratches. Deep imperfections will show up in the final paint job, so take your time with this step.
Prime the Surface:
Once your board is smooth and free of scratches, it's time to apply a primer. Spray a primer onto the deck, which will help the paint adhere better. Let the primer dry completely before moving on to the next step. It's important to follow the instructions on the primer you're using for the best results.
Paint Your Design:
Now comes the fun part—applying your design! You can use spray paint, acrylic paint, or a combination of both. If you're using spray paint, make sure to follow the instructions on the can and apply light, even coats. If you're using acrylic paint, sketch your design with a pencil first and then start painting. Allow each layer of paint to dry before applying the next. You can add as many layers and design elements as you want, just make sure to let the deck dry between coats.
Apply a Fixative Topcoat:
Once your artwork is complete and thoroughly dry, it's time to protect it with a fixative topcoat. This step is crucial to preventing scratches and ensuring the longevity of your design. Choose a fixative spray designed specifically to protect acrylic paint. Follow the instructions on the product, and make sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area. Typically, you'll want to apply two or three coats of the fixative spray, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.
Final Touches:
After applying the fixative topcoat, let your board dry completely. Once it's dry, you can reassemble your skateboard by attaching the wheels and trucks. Now, your board is ready to ride! Remember, even with a fixative topcoat, your board will show some wear and tear over time, especially in areas that make contact with rough surfaces. If you prefer a more distressed look, you can achieve it by only applying one or two coats of paint, which will wear off more quickly.
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Frequently asked questions
To paint your skateboard, you need to sand the surface, prime it, and then spray on your coats of paint. You can use any paint you want, but be aware that it will get scratched and scuffed once you start riding it.
If you want your skateboard to look worn, only apply one or two coats of paint so that it wears off more quickly. You can also sand the board with 1000-grit wet-sanding sandpaper to smooth it out and give it a gloss finish.
If you want a smooth finish, make sure to let the deck dry between coats. You can also wet sand the board with 1000-grit wet-sanding sandpaper, but be careful as this can ruin your board if not done right.
Yes, the paint will scratch off from the bottom of skateboards, especially in areas that make contact with rough surfaces. However, you can help protect the paint by applying a couple of layers of a fixative topcoat.
