How to Build a Cheap Skateboard Ramp

Skateboarding was created in the early 1950s by surfers who wanted something to do when there were no good waves. They took to the streets, empty swimming pools and parks of Southern California, and skateboarding has grown in popularity ever since. Using a skateboard ramp can be one of the most exciting thrills in the sport, and building a cheap skateboard ramp yourself is a cost-effective way to practice tricks.

Things You'll Need

  • Two 4x8 pieces of plywood
  • Four 8-foot 2x4s
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Saw
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut one piece of plywood in a straight line from corner to corner. You should have two pieces of plywood now that are in the shape of a triangle. These two pieces will be the sides of the ramp. The pieces will sit next to each other with the 90-degree angle part of the plywood in the back corner.

    • 2

      Cut two of the 2x4's in half. You should now have four pieces that are 4 feet long. These pieces of lumber will be used to attach the two sides of the ramp. Nail one 4 foot 2x4 into the sides at the 90-degree angle in the back. Nail a piece into the sides in the front bottom of the ramp and in the middle bottom of the ramp. Nail the last piece in at the top back of the ramp. The ramp should now be able to stand on its own and resemble a skateboard ramp.

    • 3

      Nail the remaining two 2x4s into the ramp along the angled edge that leads from the ground to the top of the ramp. Attach the 8-foot pieces of lumber, using a nail every 6 inches to ensure it is very sturdy. These pieces of lumber must be flush against the sides, so start them 6 inches up the angled side of the ramp and let them end 6 inches past the top of the ramp.

    • 4

      Nail the remaining piece of 4x8 plywood into the securely attached 2x4s along the angled edge of the ramp. This is the actual skating surface. Hammer one nail per foot to ensure the plywood is secure. It is important that this piece of plywood starts on the ground and extends up the sides of the ramp, using the 2x4s as support. If the measurements and cuts are correct, this final piece of plywood will fit perfectly onto the skating surface of the ramp.