How to Repaint a Skateboard (The Definitive Guide)

Whether you’ve bought a blank deck or the graphic on your skateboard is wearing off from grinding, you can easily add a new color or graphic to your board. What makes a painted skateboard so cool is that it is a truly customized skateboard to your tase. Plus, it’s not that difficult to do. Repainting a skateboard is easy as long as you follow these simple steps.

1. Set up an area for painting
2. Remove the trucks
3. Sand down the skateboard
4. Repair any wood damage
5. Sand again
6. Add one or two coats of primer
7. Sand (yet again)
8. Paint your image
9. Seal the design

Now that you can see the nine simple steps, let’s dig into them further and go over what tools and equipment you’ll need to get the job done properly.

What You Need To Repaint A Skateboard:

• Sandpaper (120 to 220 grit works best)
• Painter’s tape
• Spray paint or acrylic paint and a paint brush
• Aerosol primer
• Painter’s mask
• Garbage bags
• Rubber gloves
• Minwax Polycrylic sealant
• Stencil (if you plan on using one)

Step 1: Set Up Your Area

Set up an area in your home or in the backyard, if weather permits. You’ll want to tape down garbage bags so that you don’t get paint on anything important.

It is also critical to wear suitable clothing. Wear something old, tattered, or scruffy; paint splatters will give it character. Wearing something you don’t mind getting dirty throughout the process is even better.

A ventilated area is a must if you’re using aerosols. Even opening a window and turning on a fan will help. Also, make sure to wear a painter’s mask so that you’re not inhaling the fumes.

Step 2: Remove The Trucks

Remove the trucks from the skateboard. This is important so that you can thoroughly paint the deck without getting any paint on the other components. This step will make it easier, faster, and create less stress.

While you’re at it, you could also remove the bearings from the wheels. Soak them in bearing cleaner and then lube them before putting them back in the wheels and on the newly painted skateboard.

Step 3: Sand The Deck

Before you paint the skateboard, sand down the old design. You can use a lower grit sandpaper to start, and them work to a higher number to get a smoother surface. If you’re using an electric sander, use 40 grit paper. Then follow with 120 or 220 grit sandpaper to even out the surface.

Remember to wear the appropriate protective gear such as a painter’s mask and eye goggles. This will prevent inhaling particles of wood or irritating your eyes.

When you’re finished sanding, ensure to clean up all of the sawdust in the immediate area. The easiest approach to clean your skateboard is to use a stiff bristle brush. If you don’t get rid of every little thing, the particles might clump together and cause uneven tones when you re-paint the deck.

Step 4: Repair Any Wood Damage (If There Is Any)

If you notice any damage, it is critical to repair them before painting. It’s best to fix any issues first than having to restore it after it has been repainted. This will not only extend the life of your skateboard but also enhance its texture and longevity.

To repair the cracks and chips on your skateboard, you may purchase wood filler paste. To ensure that it is fully repaired and no dirt or water can get in, apply a thick layer of this filling. Filling in the cracks will make your skateboard much more durable.

It’s also critical to evenly apply the filler in order to avoid an uneven surface. If you fill the surface with dots of filler, it will not look good on your repainting project. Allow each layer of filler to completely dry before sanding it down.

Step 5: Sand Again

Sand down the repaired areas using 150 grit sandpaper. Make sure you smooth the surface equally and apply equal pressure on all sections.

Pro Tip: When sanding, avoid applying uneven pressure. It can cause dents and can potentially cause other damage and uneven paint in the next steps.

Step 6: Add One Or Two Coats Of Primer

Apply your primer to the deck of your skateboard. A primer will provide a second layer of protection for your deck. It will keep dirt and water out, preventing scratches and warps. It’s critical to cover all areas evenly with the primer.

Follow the instructions for the primer you’ve chosen carefully. It must be used in a specific ratio. To cover the entire surface of the skateboard, use a small roller or a brush. When applying, keep in mind to use personal protective equipment such as a face mask, gloves, and goggles to avoid self-adhering damage.

You may apply one or two coats of primer, depending on your preference. If you plan to apply more than one coat, make sure the initial layer is completely dry before applying the second.

When it comes to aerosol primers, the best and most recommended technique is to thoroughly mix the contents before using. It’s critical to use a sufficient primer that won’t produce uneven blotches if you don’t do so. If you apply one without thoroughly mixing it, for example, you may receive drips, bubbles, or other factors that are undesirable when painting. It will also destroy the sleek finished look of your skateboard.

Step 7: Sand (Yet Again)

Sanding down the surface after applying the primer is another task to complete. It will guarantee that your skateboard has a flawlessly smooth finish when you paint it.

You may use sandpaper with 150 grit again. When attempting to smooth out the surface, be careful and gentle. Remove every blister, clumps, bubbles, and uneven sections while giving your board a thorough refurbishing.

Make sure the primer is totally dry before sanding it down. You may use a fuzz-free cloth or an old cotton t-shirt to collect the sawdust and other particles. To remove all of the important debris, dampen a clean cloth and wipe away any remaining particles.

Step 8: Paint An Image On Your Skateboard

Now it’s time for you to flex your creative muscles and begin painting your board. If you want a more complex design, you may use stencils with spray paint or acrylic paint with paintbrushes.

Make sure you select a design that genuinely appeals to you. Also, make sure it’s definitive because if you change your mind, you’ll have to start over from the beginning.

Some tips for painting your skateboard:

• Use a paper and draw your design for the board. Consider the proportionality of the sketches.
• Plan the colors that you want to use. Before painting, add a base coat of white or black. This will make the image and colors pop better.
• Put your design on a stencil and tape it to your deck. Make sure you’re taping your pattern securely. You may utilize materials such as durable card stock, mylar, or cardboard for this purpose.

Step 9: Seal The Design On Your Skateboard

To protect the design, apply some clear coating or a sealer after repainting your skateboard. You may want to do one or two coats. Make sure to allow each coat to dry completely before adding another coat or putting your trucks back on.

Once your deck is dry you can put the trucks back on your skateboard and show it off at the skatepark. Yours will truly stand out because no one else will have the same graphic on their skateboard as you.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to repaint your skateboard, it’s time to get creative! Be sure to use a primer and sandpaper before painting for the best results. Protect your design with sealant or clear coating when finished.

• Remember to use personal protective equipment such as a face mask, gloves, and goggles to avoid self-adhering damage.
• Paint in a well-ventilated room. Crack open a window and get a fan running.
• When applying aerosol primers, the best and most recommended technique is to thoroughly mix the contents before using.
• When sanding, remember to keep even pressure so that you get a clean and even finish.