Last month I bought a new JS Industries surfboard: a 6’11’’ Raging Bull. Happens that I really don’t like white surfboards and spray-painted it. I had so much fun that decided to make a video of the process on another board. Just in case someone wants to do a makeover to their surfboards.
Also, it was a perfect excuse to add another small waves surfboard to my quiver. So, just for the video - said I to myself and others - I bought a really cheap and really old second-hand surfboard: a Neck Beard 1st edition from Al Merrick.
Now, I have 2 amazing customized surfboards on my quiver ;)
The process is quite simple, but my lack of ability to handcrafts is far well-known :D, so I repeated all the steps a few times. But, as in surf, the most important thing is to have fun. And I did, a lot. Not only painting the surfboards but also making the video. Hope you like it too :)
YOU CAN WATCH ALL THE PROCESSES ON THE ABOVE VIDEO, OR READ IT BELLOW.
FIRST STEP, CLEANING YOUR SURFBOARD:
Start by cleaning your surfboard and ensure it doesn't have any residues of wax or glue. Using WD40 or similar can help to dissolve the glue, making it easy to remove.
When your board it's completely clean, finish it with an alcool solution and a dry pano. Let the board dry before starting to paint.
Painting your surfboard: Start to design your layout (pencil and sheet or on your computer). This is important as it will allow you to plan the painting process and avoid errors.
PRODUCTS TO USE
• Spray paint (in this case, Montana Black 400 - I bought mine at CrackKids)
INSTRUCTIONS
Shake can well for at least one minute and remember to use a mask if painting indoors Start painting holding the can as vertically as possible Remember to apply thin layers rather than a single thick one If using several colors, tape off the areas to be painted and let the paint dry (15 to 30 minutes) between layers
Once you're happy with the layout, let the paint dry but ensure that you start varnishing your surfboard before 60 minutes pass since the final painting (or you will have to wait for 6 days to go surf with it...)
Shake the varnish can really well, as a bad mixture can lead to a nonuniform finish.
As for spray paint, apply thin layers rather than a single thick one and make sure to cover the whole board.
Let the varnish dry for 15 minutes between layers. 2 layers of varnish are more than enough to protect your customized surfboard and artwork.
When finished, let it dry for 24 hours and you're ready to surf ;)
