Skateboard Griptape Assembly
For proper application of grip tape you will need a metal file and a safety knife with a fresh blade.
Pull the backing of the tape off and place the grip on the top side of the board. Place the middle of the grip on the middle of the board. Lay the rest of the grip on the rest of the board covering all edges. Another way to do this would be to pull only half of the backing off and applying it from nose to tail. The important thing here is to make sure that all sides of the skateboard are covered with tape to spare. Place the paper backing on the grip you just applied and secure the tape to the board by rubbing the surface of the paper. This is a nice way to avoid ‘grip-burn’ during application. If there are air bubbles, just pop them with the tip of a razor.
Once you have made sure the tape is positioned properly and there are no air pockets, it is time to remove the excess. Use the file to create an outline of the board on the grip. This does two very useful things: gives you a guideline for cutting and wears down the grip making it easier to cut. Take the safety knife (children should be monitored) and hold it at a 45° angle. Place the knife under the grip and poke it through. At this point, you will start cutting the grip allowing not only the outline, but the board guide you as you go. If you are holding the knife at the proper angel, this should be a relatively easy thing to do. Do be careful not to cut too deep as it will cut into the board. Remove the excess, look over the board, and clean up whatever you feel necessary |
