I am considering trying to shape my first surfboard. Is there a size and shape that is a good, simple place to start? My quiver could use a 9ft performance longboard. Is that asking too much out of my first board? Also, is there a book or video that would be a good reference for a beginner? Thanks.
I am considering trying to shape my first surfboard. Is there a size and > shape that is a good, simple place to start? My quiver could use a 9ft > performance longboard. Is that asking too much out of my first board? > Also, is there a book or video that would be a good reference for a > beginner? Thanks. I would say that it’s just as good as any place to start. If you can get a longboard shape wired, shortboards should be a bit easier. I started out on mini tanks in the 7’6" range and went longer and shorter from there. There is a video called “Shaping 101” featuring John Carper that seems to be the one to get. I think its available thru the Bruce Jones website. My advice would be to do your homework and take your time. Good luck…
I am considering trying to shape my first surfboard. Is there a size and > shape that is a good, simple place to start? My quiver could use a 9ft > performance longboard. Is that asking too much out of my first board? > Also, is there a book or video that would be a good reference for a > beginner? Thanks. For starters, you’ve come to the right place. First get the video. Watch it and take notes. I would also strongly suggest visiting the links on Swaylock’s Resources page. Definitely check out the on-line version of Bruce Gabrielson’s book, Essential Surfing; the chapter on board building is excellent. Then come back here and ask specific, hands-on questions. I’ve gained invaluable information from combining what I learned from the video, the links, and through browsing the posts here. As for a board, why not go for the 9-footer? Just take your time and do the research before cutting into it! Go to the Foam E-Z site and look at the blanks in that size range.
I am considering trying to shape my first surfboard. Is there a size and > shape that is a good, simple place to start? My quiver could use a 9ft > performance longboard. Is that asking too much out of my first board? > Also, is there a book or video that would be a good reference for a > beginner? Thanks. Shape the exact board you want. The key is to have a very good template, measure, measure and measure some more. If you are afraid to take too much foam and any one time, take it slow–your instinct is right. Make sure to make your first board with the proper lighting!!! And last but not least, don’t concentrate any tool in a spot just to remove a minor imperfection. It is better to have sureform teeth marks than to get rid of them only to find out you just added a concave where you didn’t want one!