Surfing is an excellent full-body workout. Surfing is very specific, so there are a few ways to make do it. You can go by yourself, or you can do with a group!
Many people start practicing their surfing at young ages, so now is the time to learn how to make surfboard fins. Fins are one of the most fundamental parts of the surfboard.
Making your own fins can be fun and/or difficult? Maybe both!
Making fins is a great way to repair and update your current board. There are many ways to learn how to make them, so let’s get started!
This article will talk about how to make simple plastic fin wraps that are easy to change or repair.
Contents:
Get some scissors
Surfing is a very physical sport, and making surfboard fins is a great way to get into your fitness. Luckily, there are many ways to make surfboard fins, so we will look into those next.
Surfboard fins are typically made from wood or plastic and sculpted to create smooth edges and curves. These fin shapes can be creative as some makers use models or boats, for example.
Some fin makers even go the reverse-engineering route and create false-side fins! This way, the maker can use both new materials and manufacturing techniques to finish the fin.
Find some paper that is thick enough to hold its shape
Surfers and fashionistas love making paper fins. It is very easy and can be done without too. You just need a bit of paper, a surfboard fin, and a glue gun to create your new hobby.
Many people use tracing paper as the base, then cut away several inches of the surface. Then use a board-quality glue to attach the fin to the board.
Some people use wallpaper or an old bath towel which is folded into a square shape. Then just glue the paper on top of that shape. Both methods look great!
How long you spend on your project depends on how fast you are. Take some time to let the glue dry before you start another project so it can hold its shape.
Cut out the fin shapes
Once your board is painted, the last step is to make the fin shapes. Surfing is all about moving around and getting your hands, feet, and face in the right position to catch a wave.
To make the fins, you must draw a line down the middle of the board. This line must go all the way through the length of the board. Then, you must cut out small lines on either side of this line, leaving a little room for your foot to slide into.
You can choose to do these as one step or two, it depends on how long your board will be.
Lay the pieces onto cardboard
Before actually making your fins, you must first lay the pieces of cardboard onto each other to make them fit. This is mainly for showing your artist how thick and wide the fins should be.
You can do this after they are made, but then you would have to add more paper to make them thicker!
To make the fins, four pieces of cardboard must be stacked together and cut in half. These must then be glued together and placed around a rod or board to make your fin.
Make sure to keep your glue strong while also making sure the bottom of the board is also secure.
Trace the shapes onto plastic and cut it out
Once you have your board shape, it is time to trace the shapes onto your plastic. You can do this using a hot-air gun or with a paper-cut-viz.
Either way, make sure you have them right size before proceeding!
Tracing the shapes onto plastic takes some time and patience, so do not rush it. It will look much better in the end!
Once they are traced, they can be cut out! Trimming can be tricky at first, just keep trying and eventually you will get it. Try letting your board cool down first if you were working with heat tools or put some tape on them if you were cutting with a knife.
Put glue on the areas you want the plastic to stick to
Once you have made your fins, it is time to glue them to your board. You can do this either by showering them with water or by drying them completely with a hair dryer.
How to fold the fins
When folding the fins, make sure that the bottom is center and then slightly pull up on both sides of the top. This will create a fold in the top of the fin.
Put them under a warm shower or just cover them with a wet towel until they are dried. This takes about an hour or so!
Dryer safety tip: Make sure that you do not burn yourself if you need to put them on very quickly! Use only gentle hot liquids such as water and glue for these tips.
Let it dry and set properly
Once your surfboard fins are made, it is time to let them dry and set. This can be done in the dryer or in a lukewarm water bath!
To do this, put your fins on a paper towel and then roll the towel up into a tube and place in the dryer on low heat. This takes a few hours to complete!
To do it in the lukewarm water bath, put your surfboard fins in a tub with warm water and let sit until they were completely dried. This takes longer because the fins have to sit longer on them selves.
Repeat for the other fin
Now, repeat for the other fin. These fins should be slightly longer than your feet, and slightly shorter than your feet.
Make sure to take your time to do this properly! If you rush it, or do it by feeling and copying, then it will not turn out right.
When you have finished cutting the strips of material, fold one end of the fin into the other and pin in place. Then cut along the edge, leaving a little bit of fabric on the end to let them pull up easily.
Put them in a dryer for a few minutes to set before using! They should be warm when worn.