How to Customize Your Fingerboard
Customizing your fingerboard is a fun and creative way to express your personality while improving your performance. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about customizing your fingerboard, from tools and materials to advanced DIY techniques.
Why Customize Your Fingerboard?
Customization is about more than just aesthetics. Here are a few reasons why many fingerboard enthusiasts choose to personalize their setups:
- Improved Performance: Upgrading components like trucks, wheels, or griptape can drastically enhance control and responsiveness.
- Express Your Style: A custom fingerboard reflects your personality through unique designs and color combinations.
- Better Fit for Your Skill Level: As you improve, you may need advanced components to execute more technical tricks.
Tools and Materials for Customization
Before diving into customization, gather the essential tools and materials:
Tools
- Mini Screwdriver: For assembling and disassembling parts.
- Hobby Knife: Useful for cutting griptape or applying decals.
- Sandpaper: To smooth edges or prepare surfaces for painting.
- Tweezers: To handle small screws and components.
Materials
- Griptape: Available in various textures, colors, and patterns.
- Paints and Markers: Acrylic paints, paint pens, or spray paint for designing your deck.
- Stickers: Custom decals for a personal touch.
- Replacement Parts: Upgraded wheels, trucks, and bushings for improved performance.
Ways to Customize Your Fingerboard
1. Swap the Griptape
The easiest way to customize your fingerboard is by changing the griptape. It not only improves grip but also gives your board a fresh look.
Steps:
- Peel off the old griptape carefully to avoid damaging the deck.
- Cut the new griptape slightly larger than the deck size.
- Align and press the griptape onto the deck, starting from one end.
- Use a hobby knife to trim the edges for a clean finish.
Customization Ideas:
- Use translucent griptape to show off deck art.
- Choose patterned or colored griptape for a unique style.
2. Paint Your Deck
Painting your fingerboard deck allows for limitless creative expression. You can go for bold patterns, minimalist designs, or even recreate iconic skateboard graphics.
Steps:
- Sand the deck lightly to remove the existing finish.
- Apply a base coat of acrylic paint or primer to create a smooth surface.
- Use paint pens or brushes to create your design.
- Seal your artwork with a clear varnish or lacquer for durability.
Pro Tips:
- Mask off the edges or truck holes with tape for clean lines.
- Experiment with stencils for intricate designs.
3. Upgrade Your Wheels
Fingerboard wheels come in various materials, sizes, and colors. Upgrading your wheels can improve smoothness and control while adding a splash of personality to your setup.
Options to Consider:
- Material: Polyurethane wheels are durable and provide better grip.
- Color: Choose bold colors or transparent wheels for a stylish look.
- Bearings: Look for wheels with integrated bearings for smoother performance.
Installation:
- Remove the old wheels using a mini screwdriver.
- Attach the new wheels to the truck axles, ensuring they spin freely.
4. Customize the Trucks
Customizing your trucks is a great way to enhance your board’s performance and appearance.
Ideas:
- Paint the Trucks: Use spray paint or markers to add color.
- Polish or Sand: For a sleek, metallic look.
- Change Bushings: Softer or harder bushings affect how the board turns.
Steps:
- Remove the trucks from the deck using a screwdriver.
- Make your modifications, such as painting or replacing parts.
- Reattach the trucks securely to the deck.
5. Add Stickers and Decals
Stickers are a quick and easy way to customize your fingerboard. Many brands offer pre-made sticker sheets, or you can create your own.
How to Apply:
- Clean the surface of your deck to ensure proper adhesion.
- Carefully place the sticker or decal on the desired spot.
- Smooth out air bubbles with your fingers or a credit card.
Pro Tip:
- Layer multiple stickers for a collage effect.
6. Experiment with Hardware
Custom screws, nuts, and washers can add subtle yet stylish details to your fingerboard.
Ideas:
- Use colored screws to match your deck’s design.
- Opt for titanium or anodized hardware for added durability and shine.
Installation:
- Swap out old hardware with the new pieces using a mini screwdriver and tweezers.
7. Design Your Own Fingerboard Park Elements
Take customization beyond your board by building ramps, rails, and obstacles that match your style.
Materials:
- Wood, cardboard, or plastic for DIY ramps.
- Spray paint or stickers to customize the obstacles.
Ideas:
- Build a halfpipe with your favorite colors or patterns.
- Create rails with custom graphics or metallic finishes.
DIY Customization Tips
- Practice First: Test your painting or griptape application on an old deck before customizing your main setup.
- Use Quality Materials: Cheap paints or tools can lead to sloppy results.
- Be Patient: Customization takes time—don’t rush the process for the sake of perfection.
Common Customization Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Uneven griptape application | Press down firmly and use a knife to trim carefully around the edges. |
| Paint chipping | Seal your design with a durable clear coat or varnish. |
| Wheels not spinning properly | Check for over-tightened nuts or debris on the axle. |
| Hardware loosening over time | Use thread lock or check screws regularly to keep everything secure. |
Conclusion
Customizing your fingerboard is a rewarding way to personalize your setup and make it your own. Whether you’re swapping out griptape, upgrading hardware, or painting the deck, every modification can help improve both your performance and enjoyment of the hobby. Take your time, experiment with different ideas, and most importantly, have fun creating a fingerboard that’s as unique as you are.
Are you ready to get creative? Grab your tools and start customizing today!
