How to Airbrush a Surfboard

Whether you have invested the time to make your own surfboard or you just want to give your old surfboard a facelift, airbrushing it is an ideal and inexpensive way to make your surfboard uniquely your own. Always airbrush your board over the sanded fiberglass. Make sure you use ink or paint that is meant for surfboards so you don't ruin the finish. Keep the paint you use for touch-ups or faded spots.

Things You'll Need

  • Marker
  • Paper
  • Masking tape
  • Scissors
  • Mask with ventilator
  • Water-based airbrush ink or paint
  • Double-action airbrush
  • Air supply
  • Board sealer
  • Brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Design what you want to paint on your board with the marker on a large piece of paper. You can design your own or look for ready-made stencils. If this is your first time airbrushing, keep the design simple.

    • 2

      Cut out and tape the stencil on the board where you want the design to be. You can repeat the pattern or picture on various places on the board. Just make several copies of the stencil and tape them on the board.

    • 3

      Tape off the areas not being painted with the masking tape. Make sure to cover all areas not being painted. If you lay the tape in a pattern, it adds to the beauty of the paint job.

    • 4

      Fill the airbrush with the ink according to the manufacturer's directions. Make sure the ink is designed specifically for airbrushes and is compatible with the finish of your board.

    • 5

      Attach the brush to the air supply. Read all directions that come with the owner's manual to do so.

    • 6

      Practice using the brush on scraps of cloth, wood or plastic. Make sure you are comfortable holding and using the brush before you try this on your board. Put on the safety mask even while practicing. Once you feel comfortable with the airbrush, move to your board.

    • 7

      Start with background colors. Spray the ink at a 45-degree angle. Do not use too much. One coat of spray should do. Make sure that no tape obscures the parts of the stencil to be painted.

    • 8

      Begin spraying the stencil. You do not have to worry about spraying beyond the stencil if the areas around it are thoroughly taped. Use a light finger on the trigger and do not use more than one coat.

    • 9

      Allow the ink to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Gently peel the tape off the board. Remove the stencils. Put a coat of sealer on top for a glossier finish.