Applying grip tape to a skateboard can seem tricky, especially if it’s your first time building a skateboard. Getting the grip tape aligned properly, removing air bubbles, and cutting cleanly around the edges all take a little practice.
The good news is that once you get the hang of it, applying skateboard grip tape becomes a straightforward process.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to apply grip tape to a skateboard deck step by step, from peeling the backing paper to cutting the edges and creating the mounting holes.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, prepare the following:
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Skateboard deck
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Skateboard grip tape
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A file or screwdriver
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A sharp knife or blade
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Small screwdriver
Having everything ready beforehand makes the grip tape application process much easier.
Step 1: Peel the Backing Paper Slowly
Start by peeling the backing paper away from the grip tape.
Take your time during this step. Peel the paper slowly and carefully so that the backing paper doesn't tear.
Once the backing has been removed, you're ready to position the grip tape on your skateboard deck.
Step 2: Position the Grip Tape Over the Skateboard
Hold the grip tape by the edges at the front and back of the sheet.
Looking at the skateboard from directly above makes it easier to align the grip tape correctly. Make sure there is enough grip tape covering both the front and back of the skateboard deck.
Don't press everything down immediately.
Instead, carefully position the grip tape first so that you can make adjustments if necessary.
Step 3: Apply the Grip Tape From the Center
Once the grip tape is properly aligned, start by gently placing it down from the center of the skateboard.
Work your way toward the front and then toward the back of the deck. Make sure the entire surface and edges of the skateboard are covered.
Applying the grip tape gradually helps reduce the chance of creating large wrinkles or air pockets.
Step 4: Remove Air Bubbles
After the grip tape has been placed onto the deck, press it down firmly starting from the center and working toward the front and back.
One useful trick is to use a large skateboard wheel, such as a longboard wheel or cruiser wheel, to press across the grip tape.
The rounded surface of the wheel helps push out air bubbles that may be trapped underneath the grip tape.
This step is important if you want your finished skateboard grip tape to look smooth and clean.
Step 5: Trace Around the Edge of the Deck
Once the grip tape is firmly applied, grab a file or another suitable tool.
In the video, a screwdriver is used to trace around the edges of the skateboard deck. Keep the tool flat against the deck and carefully trace around the entire outline.
This creates a clear outline that you can follow when cutting the excess grip tape away.
Step 6: Cut the Excess Grip Tape
Now it's time to cut around the skateboard deck.
Using a sharp knife, gently pierce through the grip tape along one section of the outline.
Keep the blade at approximately a 45-degree angle against the deck and apply even pressure while pulling the knife toward yourself.
Take your time around curved sections of the skateboard. Slow and steady movements can help you achieve a cleaner cut.
When you reach sections where the edge of the skateboard is perfectly straight, you can move a little faster to create cleaner cuts. Continue keeping the blade pressed against the deck at roughly a 45-degree angle.
Once you've gone around the entire board, lift away the excess grip tape. You should be left with a clean edge around your skateboard deck.
Step 7: Create the Truck Mounting Holes
The final step is to create holes for your skateboard trucks.
Flip the skateboard deck over and use a small screwdriver to carefully poke through the grip tape at each of the truck mounting points.
Once all the mounting holes have been opened, your grip tape application is complete.
How to Get Better at Applying Grip Tape
If this is your first time applying skateboard grip tape, don't worry if it doesn't come out perfectly.
Your first application can be tricky, but the process becomes much easier with practice. The most important things are to keep your hands steady, take your time, and trust the process.
With a little experience, you'll become much more comfortable positioning, applying and cutting grip tape.
Common Grip Tape Application Mistakes
Here are a few things to watch out for when applying grip tape:
Applying the Grip Tape Too Quickly
Don't immediately stick the entire sheet onto the deck. Take some time to align the grip tape properly before pressing it down.
Creating Air Bubbles
Press from the center toward the front and back of the board rather than pressing randomly across the deck. A large cruiser or longboard wheel can also help push out trapped air bubbles.
Cutting Too Quickly Around Curves
Curved sections require more control. Slow down and maintain a consistent blade angle to achieve a cleaner edge.
Forgetting the Mounting Holes
After trimming the grip tape, remember to open up the holes where the skateboard trucks will be mounted.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skateboard Grip Tape
Is applying skateboard grip tape difficult?
It can be tricky the first time, particularly when positioning and cutting the grip tape. However, with practice, the process becomes much easier. Keeping your hands steady and taking your time can make a big difference.
How do you apply grip tape to a skateboard?
First, remove the backing paper from the grip tape. Position it over the skateboard deck, apply it starting from the center, and press toward the front and back. Remove air bubbles, trace around the deck edges, cut away the excess grip tape, and finally create the holes for the truck mounting points.
How do you prevent air bubbles under skateboard grip tape?
Apply the grip tape gradually from the center toward the front and back of the skateboard. You can also use a large longboard or cruiser wheel to press across the grip tape and help push out trapped air bubbles.
What angle should you cut skateboard grip tape?
The technique shown in the video uses the blade at approximately a 45-degree angle while keeping it pressed against the skateboard deck. Apply even pressure and pull the blade toward yourself.
Can I use a screwdriver to apply skateboard grip tape?
A screwdriver can be useful for tracing the edges of the skateboard deck before cutting the grip tape. The video also uses a small screwdriver to open the mounting holes after the grip tape has been applied.
How do I cut skateboard grip tape cleanly?
Trace the outline of the deck first, then use a sharp blade at approximately a 45-degree angle. Go slowly around curved sections and maintain consistent pressure. On straight sections, a slightly faster motion can help produce cleaner cuts.
What should I do if I make a mistake applying grip tape?
Don't worry. Grip tape application takes practice. If it's your first time, focus on getting the alignment right and keeping your hands steady. With experience, you'll become more confident and consistent.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to apply skateboard grip tape is an essential skill if you're building and maintaining your own skateboard.
The process might feel difficult at first, but it becomes much easier once you understand how to position the grip tape, remove air bubbles, trace the deck, and make clean cuts.
Take your time, keep your hands steady, and don't be afraid to practise. Once you get the hang of it, gripping a skateboard becomes pretty easy.