How to Change the Graphic on Your Longboard

The graphic on your longboard is a representation of you. While you surf the waves, fellow surfers and beach-bound spectators will enjoy your performance and ogle your surfboard. However, if your board happens to be outdated, and the time has come to switch out the graphic on your longboard, you can do so without having to purchase something brand new. Think about what you want to replace the graphic on your longboard with, so that you are satisfied with the look of your board.

Things You'll Need

  • Laminated vinyl skin
  • Adhesive
  • Airbrush
  • Airbrush paint
  • Stencils
  • Fiberglass cover
  • 3-inch abrasive disk
  • Resin
  • Hardener
  • Mixing bowl
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Instructions

    • 1

      Apply a new laminated vinyl skin to your longboard. Line the new skin on top of your blank or board, being sure to match the ends and edges. Start at the nose of the board. Peel the skin away from the tape to expose the adhesive. The adhesive is on the underside of the laminated vinyl skin, which sticks to the longboard. Place the nose of the laminated skin directly onto the nose of the board, and work your way towards the back.

    • 2

      Airbrush a graphic onto your longboard. Place the stencil of the graphic you want to add onto the fiberglass of your board. Fill your airbrush with airbrush paint and spray the paint directly over the stencil. Remove the stencil to see where the paint colored in your graphic on the board. Position your next stencil to create a second graphic, or to expand on the first one you created. Paint each stencil a new color so that the graphics stand out. Use multiple coats of the airbrush paint to make colors bolder.

    • 3

      Remove the top layer of fiberglass that has your current graphic already imprinted on it. Run a 3-inch abrasive disk around the edges of the mid rail of your board. Cut barely through the fiberglass into the foam blank beneath it. This strips the rails that hold your fiberglass in place. Use your hands to pry the fiberglass away from the stripped rails. Replace with new fiberglass that contains your new desired graphic image. Lay the new fiberglass on top of the foam blank. Mix the resin with the hardener in a mixing bowl and pour it over the fiberglass. It will harden in approximately one hour.