Want to make your skateboard truly your own? Whether you're a skater, artist, or DIY enthusiast, customizing your skateboard deck is the perfect way to combine function and creativity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to paint a skateboard step by step, using Angelus Paints.
Image credit: Cam Createz (IG: @cam.createz)
Key Takeaways:
- Surface Grip: Scuff the factory finish with 220-grit sandpaper so paint can bond to the wood.
- Flexibility: Use thin layers of Angelus Paint to prevent chipping when the board bends during tricks.
- Vibrant Base: Apply a white base coat on dark wood to make neon and bright colors pop.
- Impact Seal: Use 4-Coat to provide a scratch-resistant barrier against moisture and pavement.
🛠️ Supplies You’ll Need
- Skateboard Deck: Blank or used (wooden is best).
- Sandpaper: 220-grit for essential surface prep.
- Angelus Acrylic Paints: Vibrant, flexible, and professional grade.
- Brushes: Fine detail brushes and wide flat brushes.
- Masking Tape: For clean lines and stencils.
- Angelus 4-Coat or Acrylic Finisher: To seal and protect your artwork.
🎨 The Playbook: Bringing Your Vision to the Board
1. Strip the Trucks & Clean
If you’re using an old board, unscrew the trucks. Use a damp cloth to remove all dust, wax, and road grime. Why does my paint peel off my skateboard? If you don't clean the board first, the paint sticks to the dirt instead of the wood fibers.
2. Scuff the Surface
Lightly sand the area you plan to paint. You aren't trying to remove the wood; you just want to "scuff" the factory finish so the paint has something to grip. Pro Tip: Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid deep scratches.
3. Sketch the Blueprint
Lightly outline your art with a pencil. If you want a solid background color, paint that first, let it dry, and then sketch your details on top of the cured base layer.
4. Layer the Pigment
Apply your Angelus Paint in thin, even layers. Start with your background colors and work your way up to the fine details. Using thin layers prevents the paint from becoming brittle and chipping when the board flexes during impact.
5. Lock in the Art
Allow the paint to dry fully (15–30 minutes per layer). Once the art is finished, apply 2-3 coats of Angelus 4-Coat. This creates a durable, scratch-resistant barrier against moisture and the elements.
🔎 Common FAQs
Can I actually skate on a painted board?
Yes! However, remember that boardslides and grinds will eventually scratch the paint—it's part of the "worn-in" skater aesthetic. For display-only boards, the art will last a lifetime.What is the best way to get clean lines?
Use high-quality painter's tape. After taping your design, paint a light layer of your base color over the tape edge first to "seal" it. This prevents your top color from bleeding underneath the tape.How do I make the colors pop?
If you are painting on a dark wood deck, apply a "base coat" of Angelus White Paint first. This provides a neutral ground that makes neons and bright colors look much more vibrant.
Required Materials: Shop the Look
Product Purpose Angelus Acrylic Paint The #1 high-pigment choice for custom deck art. Angelus 4-Coat Finisher Maximum scratch resistance and protection for your artwork. Angelus Paint Brush Set Professional synthetic fibers for a smooth, level finish.
