DIY Epoxy Electric Pintail Longboard Tutorial
A Fusion of Art and Technology
Ever dreamed of crafting a longboard that’s not just a mode of transportation, but a piece of art? This DIY electric burned longboard project combines woodworking, electronics, and a touch of artistry to create a truly unique ride.
Materials:
- Two maple boards (60″ x 5″ x 3/4″)
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Orbital sander
- Longboard template or old longboard
- Baking soda
- Water
- Copper plates
- Positive and negative cables
- Power source (e.g., battery)
- Epoxy resin
- Torch
- Woodworking router
- Longboard wheels and trucks
- Clear coat
Tools:
- Joiner
- Drill
- Sandpaper
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Wood:
- Joint the edges of the maple boards to ensure a clean, flat surface.
- Glue the two boards together, clamping them securely.
- Once the glue has dried, sand the board to a smooth finish.
- Create the Template:
- Use a longboard template or an old board as a guide to mark the shape of your longboard.
- Cut the board to the desired shape using a jigsaw or bandsaw.
- Prepare for Electric Burning:
- Soak the board in a baking soda and water solution to improve its conductivity.
- Attach copper plates to the bottom of the board using screws or clamps.
- Electric Burning:
- Connect the positive and negative cables to the power source and copper plates.
- Move the positive cable along the board to create the desired canal design.
- Start with wider spaces between the cable and the board, gradually moving closer to create a continuous canal.
- Cleaning and Refinement:
- Remove the charred wood from the canal using a chisel or sandpaper.
- Use a woodworking router to clean up the canal and create a smooth, even surface.
- Epoxy Filling:
- Pour epoxy resin into the canal, using a torch to remove any bubbles.
- Allow the epoxy to cure completely.
- Finishing Touches:
- Flip the board over and fill the burned canal on the bottom with epoxy.
- Once cured, sand the entire board and apply a clear coat to protect the wood and enhance the appearance.
- Attach the longboard wheels and trucks.
With a bit of patience and creativity, you can create a stunning, personalized longboard that reflects your unique style.