Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been studying the various methods used to make a skateboard. I’ve been very intrigued by the use of bamboo veneer instead of maple veneer to make skateboards.
Maple is a hardwood, and it takes a relatively long time to grow. On the other hand, bamboo is a grass, and it very sustainable. It also has many characteristics which make it a great choice for custom skateboards. It’s light, strong, and has a sort of tensile flexibility – just the right amount.
There are quite a few suppliers of bamboo veneer online, and I’ve found thicknesses from 1/8″ to 1/42″ at various suppliers. The only potential issue is that the bamboo is laminated before the manufacturers slice it into thin sheets, usually with a water-based adhesive. This would mean that with a skateboard, you’d want to use a high-quality varnish to protect it. I’d probably use a marine varnish. They’re are made to handle some pretty tough conditions.
If anyone has a bamboo board, I’m curious to know how many layers are in the skateboard and how thick the final board is.
Once I make a skateboard, my next project will be to create a skateboard out of renewable materials like bamboo.
Primo Boardz is the one online store where you can find everything you need to trick out your skateboard. Check out their superstore here!
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Make a Skateboard with Bamboo?
Great article on how to make a skateboard out of bamboo instead of Maple
Make a Skateboard with Bamboo?
Great article on how to make a skateboard out of bamboo instead of the typical Maple