I’ve called all the local surfshops and ding repair places in the area and can’t seem to find anyone available at the moment to learn under. I don’t mind starting off sweepin the floors or cementing the basics for dings. I just want to get my foot in the door in this amazing industry. I’m not looking to make money in this endeavor, I just need to fill the void that is my so called artistic side which has been nagging at me like an old hen. I’ll pay for the blanks, of course, and any other material that is needed. I just want to learn, learn, learn.
Justin - is there any reason why you can't just start learning at home? There's a wealth of good advice here, many pro's and experts, and even the humble 'backyard hacks' often turn out awesome looking surfboards. You could get advice, get your materials, and get started!
Many of us have done just that. A year ago I wanted to build my first surfboard (in my case, out of wood). I found a forum on that subject, studied the posts and the pictures, asked a few questions, and dived right in. A month and a half later, my first board was done. A year later, and I have built 5 surfboards, and re-built another that was broken in half.
Handmaking surfboards is kind of a dying art - don't get me wrong, there are still some good practitioners out there, but with computers shaping surfboards, and import boards costing a fraction of a local board, the demand isn't great, especially in this economy. A few good shapers are doing very well right now, but a lot of guys are struggling, and many of them are good too!
You'd be surprised at the resourcefulness of board builders who don't really have a good place to work, but have a lot of determination. Many are building boards at home against all odds.
Tell us a little more about yourself and your goals, desires, surfing experience, etc., maybe we can help.