How to Turn an Old Skateboard Deck Into Home Decor
Skateboarding is more than just a sport—it’s a culture, a lifestyle, and for many, a form of art. While a skateboard deck may have been used for endless tricks, ramps, and grinds, its life doesn’t end when it starts to show signs of wear and tear. In fact, with a little creativity, your old skateboard deck can be transformed into a stylish and functional piece of home decor. Whether you’re an avid skater or someone simply looking to add a unique touch to your home, turning an old skateboard deck into a home decor piece can be a rewarding DIY project that expresses both your love for skateboarding and your personal style.
We’ll explore several creative ideas for repurposing old skateboard decks into beautiful and practical decor items, offering a mix of artistic, functional, and practical applications that anyone can try. From wall art to furniture and shelving, your old skateboard deck has much more potential than just sitting in a corner collecting dust.
Why Turn Your Old Skateboard Deck Into Home Decor?
Before diving into the “how-to” of transforming your old skateboard deck, let’s talk about why you should consider repurposing it. Here are a few compelling reasons:
- Sentimental Value: If you’ve had your deck for a while and it has history behind it, whether it’s been on epic skateboarding adventures or simply has memories attached to it, turning it into decor can keep those memories alive.
- Eco-Friendly: Instead of discarding your old skateboard deck and contributing to waste, repurposing it gives the deck a second life and helps reduce unnecessary waste in landfills.
- Unique Aesthetic: Skateboards, particularly the deck graphics, often feature cool, artistic designs that can add a bold, eye-catching statement to your living space. Not only are you preserving art, but you’re also creating a one-of-a-kind piece.
- Customization: By turning your old deck into decor, you get to infuse your personality into your home. You can tailor the look and feel of the decor piece to suit your style and preferences.
Now that we’ve established the benefits, let’s look at some of the most creative ways to give your old skateboard deck a new lease on life as home decor.
1. Skateboard Deck Wall Art
Perhaps the simplest way to turn an old skateboard deck into home decor is to transform it into a piece of wall art. Skateboard decks often feature bold, colorful designs that can add vibrancy to any room. Whether you hang a single deck or multiple decks, they can instantly elevate the visual appeal of a space.
How to Create Skateboard Deck Wall Art:
Materials Needed:
- One or more skateboard decks
- Wall hooks or picture hanging hardware
- Measuring tape
- A level
- Drill and screws (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Choose Your Deck(s): Pick out an old deck with a design that speaks to you. If you have multiple decks, you can hang them together in a grid or even mix and match different designs for an eclectic, personalized look.
- Prep the Deck(s): Clean the skateboard deck(s) thoroughly to remove any dirt or grime. If you prefer a more polished look, you could even sand the surface lightly to smooth out any rough edges.
- Install Wall Hooks: You can attach small wall hooks or picture hanging hardware to the back of the deck to make it easy to hang. You could also drill a small hole in each end of the deck to hang it from screws. Be sure to use appropriate hardware that can support the weight of the deck.
- Hang and Display: Use a measuring tape to position the decks on the wall. Make sure they are level, and adjust the height according to your desired aesthetic. Once everything is aligned, hang the decks on the hooks or screws and step back to admire your work!
Tips for a Unique Look:
- Arrange the decks in a pattern or shape that suits your room’s design, such as a diagonal row or a circular arrangement.
- For a modern or minimalist touch, hang one deck in the center of a wall and leave plenty of space around it.
- Use decks with different designs or colors for a vibrant, eclectic look.
Read More: DIY Skateboard Deck Art: Tips for Painting Your Own Deck
2. Skateboard Deck Coffee Table
If you have several old skateboard decks lying around, you can combine them to create a stylish coffee table that shows off your love for skateboarding. A skateboard deck coffee table is a fantastic way to incorporate your personal style into your living room while repurposing old decks.
How to Make a Skateboard Deck Coffee Table:
Materials Needed:
- 3–4 old skateboard decks
- 4 table legs (you can use pre-made legs or repurpose other furniture legs)
- Screws
- Drill
- Wood glue (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Decks: Choose a few old skateboard decks with cool graphics. If you’re using more than one deck, you can arrange them in a row or stack them to create the table surface.
- Arrange the Decks: Lay the decks side by side on a flat surface. Use wood glue to secure the edges of the decks if you want to ensure they stay in place.
- Attach the Table Legs: On the underside of the deck(s), drill holes where you will attach the table legs. If you’re using pre-made legs, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to attach them securely. Make sure the legs are evenly spaced so the table won’t be wobbly.
- Assemble the Table: Once the legs are attached, flip the table over, and you have a functional coffee table with a unique skateboarding vibe!
Tips for a Unique Look:
- Paint or stain the legs to match the color scheme of the room.
- Add a glass top for a sleek and modern finish while still keeping the skateboards as the base of the table.
- Combine the decks in a way that showcases the best parts of the graphics, whether it’s aligning them vertically, horizontally, or in an overlapping design.
3. Skateboard Deck Shelves
Another clever way to turn old skateboard decks into home decor is by creating shelves. Skateboard decks are the perfect size to be used as shelf units, and they can add a cool, urban touch to your space.
How to Make Skateboard Deck Shelves:
Materials Needed:
- 1 or more skateboard decks
- Wall brackets or floating shelf hardware
- Screws and a drill
- Measuring tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Select the Deck(s): Choose a deck or decks based on the design you prefer. A single deck can be turned into a narrow shelf, while multiple decks can be stacked or arranged to create a larger shelf.
- Install the Wall Brackets: Depending on your design, you’ll need to install wall brackets to support the deck as a shelf. Use a drill to secure the brackets in place, making sure they are level.
- Attach the Deck(s): Once the brackets are in place, attach the skateboard deck(s) to the shelf brackets. Ensure the deck is securely fastened to avoid accidents.
- Display Items on the Shelf: After everything is assembled, use your skateboard shelf to display books, plants, or any other decorative items that fit the vibe of your space.
Tips for a Unique Look:
- Stack multiple decks for a larger shelf to hold more items.
- For a more modern design, add floating brackets so the shelf appears to “float” on the wall without visible support.
- Use vibrant or graphic-heavy decks for a more bold and artistic shelf.
4. Skateboard Deck Coat Rack
Turning a skateboard deck into a coat rack is an excellent way to give your old deck a functional purpose while keeping your entryway organized. This simple DIY project can add a unique touch to your hallway, mudroom, or bedroom.
How to Make a Skateboard Deck Coat Rack:
Materials Needed:
- An old skateboard deck
- Coat hooks
- Screws
- Drill
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Deck: Clean your old skateboard deck, ensuring there’s no dirt or debris. You can also paint or sand it for a more polished look.
- Attach the Hooks: Choose the locations for the coat hooks along the skateboard deck’s underside. Drill holes and securely attach the hooks, ensuring they are evenly spaced for balance and functionality.
- Mount the Deck: Attach the skateboard deck to the wall using screws or mounting hardware. Be sure to position it at an appropriate height for easy access to coats, hats, or bags.
Tips for a Unique Look:
- Add decorative elements like stickers or paint to personalize the skateboard.
- Choose colorful or quirky coat hooks to match the style of the deck and enhance the design.
5. Skateboard Deck Mirror Frame
For a more artistic project, turn an old skateboard deck into a mirror frame. This idea not only breathes new life into a worn deck but also creates a striking piece of functional decor for your space.
How to Make a Skateboard Deck Mirror Frame:
Materials Needed:
- Old skateboard deck
- Mirror (cut to fit the deck size)
- Strong adhesive or mirror glue
- Drill (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Deck: Clean and sand the deck if necessary. You can also paint or modify the graphic to suit your style.
- Fit the Mirror: Measure the size of the skateboard deck and have a mirror cut to fit the surface of the deck. If you’re using a smaller deck, you may only need a compact mirror.
- Adhere the Mirror: Use a strong adhesive or mirror glue to attach the mirror to the skateboard deck. Allow the glue to dry completely.
- Mount the Frame: Attach hanging hardware or use a wall bracket to hang your new mirror in a bathroom, entryway, or living room.
Tips for a Unique Look:
- Add a coat of paint to the deck to complement the room’s decor.
- Use multiple decks to create a multi-mirror frame for a more dramatic effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What tools do I need to turn a skateboard deck into home decor?
You’ll need basic tools like a drill, screws, wall hooks, and measuring tape. Other tools like a saw or wood glue may be necessary depending on your specific project.
2. Can I customize the deck before repurposing it?
Yes! Sanding, painting, and adding decals are great ways to personalize your old skateboard deck before turning it into decor.
3. Is it safe to hang skateboard decks on the wall?
Yes, as long as you use proper hanging hardware, such as wall hooks or picture hanging brackets, and ensure the deck is securely attached to the wall.
4. How can I make sure the skateboard deck doesn’t get damaged during the transformation?
Clean the deck before working with it, and avoid using harsh chemicals or tools that could damage the deck’s surface. Be mindful when drilling or adding adhesive to prevent cracking.
5. What type of room should I display skateboard deck decor in?
Skateboard deck decor fits well in rooms with an industrial, modern, or eclectic vibe. Common areas like living rooms, bedrooms, and even home offices work great.
6. Can I create a coffee table from just one skateboard deck?
It’s possible, though the deck may be too small for a traditional coffee table. You can add extra decks or create a low-profile table to fit a single deck.
7. Do I need any special skills to repurpose my skateboard deck?
Basic DIY skills like measuring, drilling, and gluing are all you need to complete most of these projects. If you’re not confident, you can always get help from someone experienced with tools.
Conclusion
Repurposing an old skateboard deck into home decor is a fantastic way to give new life to something that might otherwise be tossed aside. Not only does this DIY project allow you to keep your love for skateboarding alive, but it also adds a personalized, unique touch to your home. Whether you choose to create wall art, furniture, shelves, or other functional decor pieces, the possibilities are endless. With just a little creativity and some basic tools, you can transform your old skateboard deck into a statement piece that reflects your personality and style.
These projects are not only eco-friendly and budget-friendly but also a great way to repurpose something you’re attached to, keeping its history and design alive in your living space. Each repurposed deck tells a story, whether it’s through the graphics, the wear and tear, or the memories attached to it. So, don’t let that old deck sit idle in a corner—bring it back to life and turn it into something beautiful that you can proudly display in your home.
By following the ideas and steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your old skateboard deck has a meaningful second life. From shelves and tables to mirrors and coat racks, there’s a creative project for everyone. So, grab that old deck and get ready to turn it into a piece of home decor that’s as unique as you are!
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