Intro

Skateboard decks—both blank and branded—are manufactured using a precise, repeatable process. While graphics and branding vary, the core construction methods remain largely the same across the industry.

Understanding how skateboard decks are made helps explain why deck quality depends on materials, molds, and consistency rather than logos or graphics.

Materials Used in Skateboard Deck Construction

Most modern skateboard decks are built from hard rock Canadian maple, chosen for its strength, flexibility, and durability.

• Strong resistance to snapping
• Consistent flex characteristics
• Ability to hold shape under repeated impact

Maple veneers are cut thin and dried to controlled moisture levels before assembly.

Veneer Layering and Ply Configuration

A standard skateboard deck is made using seven layers (plies) of maple veneer.

• Veneers are stacked with alternating grain direction
• Grain orientation improves strength and prevents splitting
• Glue is applied evenly between each ply

This layered construction is what gives a skateboard deck its strength-to-weight balance.

Pressing the Deck

Once stacked, the veneers are placed into a deck mold and pressed.

• Hydraulic or mechanical presses apply pressure
• Heat or cold pressing may be used
• The mold defines concave, shape, and profile

The mold used during pressing is one of the most important factors influencing how a deck feels.

Cutting and Shaping

After pressing, the deck blank is removed and cut to its final outline.

• Nose and tail shapes are refined
• Edges are trimmed and smoothed
• Deck symmetry is checked

At this stage, decks are still unbranded and unprinted.

Drilling the Truck Mounting Holes

Precise drilling ensures trucks align correctly.

• Hole placement affects wheelbase and turning
• Consistency is critical for predictable performance
• Small variances can change board feel

Quality manufacturers maintain tight tolerances during this step.

Sanding and Finishing

The deck is sanded to remove imperfections and prepare the surface.

• Edges are rounded for comfort
• The top is smoothed for grip tape
• The bottom is prepared for graphics or left blank

Blank skateboard decks typically stop at this stage, while branded decks move on to graphic application.

Quality Control

Before leaving the factory, decks are inspected.

• Warping and delamination checks
• Weight and flex consistency
• Visual defects and alignment

A well-made blank deck will perform the same as a branded deck produced using the same materials and molds.

How This Relates to Blank Skateboard Decks

Blank skateboard decks follow the same manufacturing steps as branded decks. The absence of graphics does not indicate lower quality—it simply means the deck has not been printed or branded.

Construction quality, pressing consistency, and mold design are what determine performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Deck Manufacturing

Are blank decks made in the same factories as branded decks?

Often, yes. Many blanks and branded decks come from the same manufacturers.

Does pressing method affect deck quality?

Yes. Pressure consistency, mold design, and glue application all affect strength and feel.

Is Canadian maple required for a good deck?

It is the industry standard due to its performance characteristics, but quality still depends on execution.

Learn More

Return to the main guide for a complete overview: