Cutting a perfect shape for a longboard from a blank deck involves precision and careful attention to detail. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a clean and accurate cut:
Materials:
1. Longboard blank deck: Choose a high-quality plywood deck with the desired dimensions.
2. Pencil: For marking the shape on the deck.
3. Ruler or straight edge: To ensure straight lines and even measurements.
4. Jigsaw or circular saw: These are the primary tools for cutting the deck.
5. Workbench or sawhorses: To secure the deck while cutting.
6. Sandpaper or a sander: To smooth out rough edges after cutting.
Steps:
1. Design Your Longboard Shape:
- Plan the shape of your longboard. Consider the length, width, nose, tail, and any concave or kicktails you want.
- Draw the outline of your longboard shape on the blank deck using a pencil and a ruler or straight edge.
2. Secure the Blank Deck:
- Place the blank deck on a stable workbench or sawhorses to secure it during the cutting process.
3. Measure and Mark:
- Use a ruler or straight edge to measure and mark the key points of your longboard shape, ensuring accuracy in your design.
- Double-check your measurements and marks before proceeding.
4. Cutting the Outline:
- If using a jigsaw, carefully follow the marked outline, cutting along the lines. Take your time to ensure precision.
- If using a circular saw, set the blade depth to match the thickness of the deck and guide the saw along the marked lines.
5. Cutting Concave and Kicktails (if applicable):
- If your longboard design includes concave or kicktails, use the jigsaw to carefully cut these features after completing the main outline.
6. Smooth Edges:
- After cutting, use sandpaper or a sander to smooth out any rough edges and refine the shape.
- Pay extra attention to the nose, tail, and any areas with complex curves.
7. **Inspect the Cut:
- Inspect the cut edges to ensure they match your intended design. Make any necessary adjustments with sandpaper.
8. Final Touches:
- Double-check the overall shape and make any final adjustments to achieve the desired look.
- Sand the entire deck to create a smooth surface for applying grip tape and any custom graphics.
By following these steps with precision and attention to detail, you can cut a perfect shape for your longboard from a blank deck. Always prioritise safety by using appropriate safety gear and tools, and take your time to achieve the best results.
