DIY Plywood Bodyboard

Take your wave riding to the next level by building your own custom bodyboard. The sport began in Hawaii in 1971 and has since become an international sensation. There is no need to spend money on expensive manufactured boards when a day of work in the garage will result in hours of play on the beach, and create a durable conversation piece at the same time.

Things You'll Need

  • Cardboard
  • Yard stick
  • Pencil
  • Compass
  • Scissors
  • Plywood
  • Jigsaw
  • Drill
  • Palm sander
  • Waterproof wood sealant
  • Rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the size of your bodyboard. Set down a large piece of flat cardboard to begin your template. Using a yardstick and pencil, draw the bodyboard’s two sides and the rear edge on the cardboard.

    • 2

      Find the upper center of the bodyboard with your yardstick. Set the base of the compass at this center point and draw a smooth arching line on the cardboard, creating the bodyboard’s leading edge.

    • 3

      Cut the template from the cardboard and set it over your panel of plywood. Trace the outline of the template onto the wood using your pencil.

    • 4

      Cut along the pencil lines with a jigsaw. Set aside the scrap wood. Find the top center of the bodyboard and drill a hole large enough to accommodate your rope.

    • 5

      Remove any splinters of wood that remain from cutting out the bodyboard. Run a sander over all sides and surfaces until the wood is smooth and free of rough edges.

    • 6

      Blow away any wood dust from the bodyboard. Apply a smooth coat of sealant to all sides and surfaces. Allow the sealant to dry for 24 hours.

    • 7

      Cut a 3-foot section of rope. Run 6 inches of rope through the hole at the top center of the bodyboard. Tie a fat knot underneath the bodyboard to keep the rope from pulling through.