All, great site. I’ve spent the past hour or so sifting through but can’t seem to find what I’m looking for so thought I would throw it out to see if anyone can help. I’m thinking of building a balsa longboard over the winter here in Canada as something to spend many enjoyable hours on (I hope) but have no idea where to start as to creating such a beast. I’m 6’2", 200lbs and almost a total beginner when it comes to surfing but some decent woodworking expertise. So, heres the basic question. Can anyone point me at a source for a shape and complete dimensions that would work and perhaps how to go about the build. I could easily lay out the top but am somewhat lost as to the thickness, rockering needed and the tapering of the board on both top and bottom and fin size/placement. I understand that taking this one may mean a huge amount of hard work to get the shape right and that I’ll likely bugger something up along they way but in the end it still sounds like fun to me so any advice is appreciated. And finally to you pros out there no worry I won’t be eating into your business anytime nor does my project mean I won’t be buying a board, I’m doing this for the fun in creating one myself. Thanks to all in advance, Mark
Mark: I am no expert,but I recently did two balsa boards and have repaired some in the past. I live in Nanoose just north of Nanaimo. If you are in the area give me a call. Right off the top, I would say your biggest problem and most expensive will be obtaining the wood. Good luck. Patrick
Mark - As I read your post, I was thinking exactly the same thing as Patrick Shannon. Balsa blanks are available but at a price. Shipping isn’t exactly cheap either. George Robinson or Shark Bay International (Dr. Mario Garcia-Elias or Christian Wehr) are two possible sources. Rhino Balsa used to have a website but it hasn’t worked the last few times I’ve tried it. There are a few others - Jim Phillips, Frost Lumber, Bill Hoopes, etc. who may be able to help you. I made one recently and even with a light glass job, it’s heavy. Chambering may be worth the extra cost if you want your board to be lighter. Buying balsa lumber at retail prices and gluing up a blank will be about the same cost as a ready made blank. Good luck http://www.surfers-directory.com/sddirectory/florida/sdfl01/default.htm
Anthonys boardbuilding site, which I believe is listed in the links here, has a couple of people posting that will help and inspire.
Mark: Perhaps another possibility is to build a hollow board. Check out Paul Jensen’s web site - www.hollowsurfboard.com. He has the entire process posted on his site with pictures. His method requires a high level of woodworking skills, but there is a lot less wasted wood, thereby making it more economical plus you are not limited to just balsa and redwood. Good luck with the project. Patrick