Show Off Your Deck: A Complete Guide to Hanging a Skateboard on Your Wall
So, you’ve got a skateboard. Maybe it’s a beloved old friend, scarred with memories of epic sessions and near-miss bails. Maybe it’s a pristine work of art, too beautiful to actually ride. Or maybe it’s just taking up space in your garage. Whatever the reason, hanging your skateboard on the wall is a fantastic way to display it, save space, and add a touch of personality to your home. This comprehensive guide will walk you through several methods for hanging your skateboard, ensuring a secure and stylish display.
Why Hang Your Skateboard?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s consider the *why*. Hanging a skateboard isn’t just about storage; it’s about:
* **Displaying Art:** Skateboards are often canvases for amazing artwork, from vibrant graphics to intricate designs. Showcasing them on your wall turns them into conversation starters and adds a unique aesthetic to your space.
* **Saving Space:** Instead of tripping over your board or letting it gather dust in a corner, hanging it keeps it out of the way and organized.
* **Preserving History:** Older skateboards hold sentimental value, representing a time in your life or a specific skating era. Hanging them protects them from further wear and tear.
* **Adding a Personal Touch:** A skateboard on the wall instantly injects personality into a room, reflecting your interests and passions.
Choosing the Right Hanging Method
There are several ways to hang a skateboard, each with its own pros and cons. The best method for you will depend on factors like:
* **The weight of your skateboard:** A heavier board might require sturdier hardware.
* **The type of wall you have:** Drywall, plaster, or concrete will require different types of anchors.
* **Your desired aesthetic:** Some methods are more discreet than others.
* **Your budget:** Some methods require purchasing specialized hardware, while others can be done with items you already have.
Let’s explore some of the most popular options:
1. Skateboard Hangers (Dedicated Mounts)
This is arguably the most professional and secure way to hang a skateboard. Dedicated skateboard hangers are specifically designed for the task and come in a variety of styles and finishes. They typically consist of two separate mounts that attach to the wall and cradle the skateboard, either by the trucks or by gripping the deck itself.
**Pros:**
* **Secure:** Designed to hold the weight of a skateboard safely.
* **Professional Look:** Creates a clean and polished display.
* **Easy to Install:** Most hangers come with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware.
* **Versatile:** Available in different styles to suit your aesthetic preferences.
**Cons:**
* **Cost:** Can be more expensive than other methods.
* **Requires Purchasing:** You’ll need to buy the hangers specifically.
**Installation Steps:**
1. **Choose Your Location:** Decide where you want to hang your skateboard. Consider the height and spacing to create a visually appealing arrangement.
2. **Mark the Studs (Recommended):** Ideally, you want to mount the hangers into wall studs for maximum security. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. Mark the stud locations with a pencil.
3. **If No Studs, Use Anchors:** If you can’t find studs where you want to hang the board, you’ll need to use wall anchors. Select anchors appropriate for the weight of your skateboard and the type of wall you have (drywall, plaster, etc.). Follow the anchor manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Common types of anchors include drywall anchors, plastic anchors, and toggle bolts.
4. **Position the Hangers:** Hold one hanger against the wall at your marked location. Use a level to ensure it’s straight. Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
5. **Drill Pilot Holes (If Necessary):** If you’re using anchors, you may need to drill pilot holes first. Refer to the anchor instructions for the correct drill bit size.
6. **Attach the First Hanger:** Screw the first hanger into the wall, either directly into the stud or using the wall anchors.
7. **Position the Second Hanger:** Now, hold the skateboard up to the first hanger to determine the correct placement for the second hanger. Use a level to ensure the skateboard will be straight. Mark the screw holes for the second hanger.
8. **Attach the Second Hanger:** Repeat steps 5 and 6 to attach the second hanger.
9. **Hang Your Skateboard:** Carefully place your skateboard onto the hangers, ensuring it’s securely supported.
2. Skateboard Straps or Slings
Skateboard straps or slings provide a more minimalist and industrial look. These usually consist of two adjustable straps that loop around the trucks and attach to the wall with a single screw or hook each.
**Pros:**
* **Minimalist Aesthetic:** Provides a clean and unobtrusive display.
* **Adjustable:** Can accommodate different skateboard widths.
* **Relatively Inexpensive:** Often more affordable than dedicated hangers.
**Cons:**
* **Weight Limit:** May not be suitable for very heavy skateboards.
* **Can Shift:** The board can sometimes shift within the straps.
**Installation Steps:**
1. **Choose Your Location:** Select the desired spot on your wall.
2. **Mark the Studs (Recommended):** Locate and mark wall studs if possible. Otherwise, prepare to use wall anchors.
3. **Attach the First Strap:** Attach one strap to the wall using a screw or hook, either directly into a stud or with a wall anchor. Ensure the screw or hook is strong enough to support half the weight of your skateboard.
4. **Position the Second Strap:** Hold your skateboard up to the first strap to determine the correct placement for the second strap. Use a level to ensure the board will be straight. Mark the location for the second strap.
5. **Attach the Second Strap:** Attach the second strap to the wall, using the same method as the first.
6. **Hang Your Skateboard:** Loosen the straps if necessary, then carefully slide the trucks into the loops. Adjust the straps to ensure the skateboard is secure and level.
3. Floating Shelves
While not specifically designed for skateboards, floating shelves can be a surprisingly effective and stylish way to display your deck. Choose a shelf deep enough to accommodate the width of your skateboard and strong enough to hold its weight.
**Pros:**
* **Versatile:** Can be used to display other items alongside your skateboard.
* **Stylish:** Adds a modern and minimalist touch.
* **Readily Available:** Floating shelves are widely available in various sizes and finishes.
**Cons:**
* **May Require Modification:** You might need to add a lip or railing to prevent the skateboard from sliding off.
* **Depth Considerations:** The shelf needs to be deep enough to securely hold the board.
**Installation Steps:**
1. **Choose Your Shelf:** Select a floating shelf that is at least as deep as the width of your skateboard deck. Make sure it’s rated to hold the weight of the skateboard.
2. **Locate Studs (Recommended):** Use a stud finder to locate wall studs. Mounting the shelf to studs is crucial for stability.
3. **Install the Shelf:** Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the floating shelf. This usually involves attaching a mounting bracket to the wall and then sliding the shelf onto the bracket. Use screws that are long enough to penetrate deeply into the studs.
4. **Add a Lip (Optional):** To prevent the skateboard from sliding off, you can add a small lip or railing to the front of the shelf. This can be as simple as a piece of wood trim attached with screws or adhesive.
5. **Place Your Skateboard:** Carefully place your skateboard on the shelf, ensuring it’s stable and secure.
4. Simple Hooks or Nails
For a truly minimalist and budget-friendly option, you can hang your skateboard using simple hooks or nails. This method works best for lightweight boards and is more suitable for display than for secure storage. Note that this method may cause damage to the skateboard deck over time.
**Pros:**
* **Inexpensive:** Very affordable, using readily available materials.
* **Easy to Install:** Requires minimal tools and effort.
* **Minimalist:** Provides a very discreet display.
**Cons:**
* **Not Very Secure:** The skateboard can easily be knocked off.
* **Potential Damage:** Hooks or nails can scratch or damage the skateboard deck.
* **Limited Weight Capacity:** Not suitable for heavy boards.
**Installation Steps:**
1. **Choose Your Location:** Decide where you want to hang your skateboard.
2. **Select Hooks or Nails:** Choose hooks or nails that are strong enough to support the weight of your skateboard. Consider using hooks with a rubber coating to minimize scratching.
3. **Drive in the Hooks or Nails:** Drive the hooks or nails into the wall at the desired locations, spacing them appropriately for the width of your skateboard. If you’re not hitting a stud, use wall anchors.
4. **Hang Your Skateboard:** Carefully hang your skateboard on the hooks or nails, ensuring it’s balanced and stable.
5. DIY Skateboard Mounts
If you’re feeling creative, you can build your own skateboard mounts using materials like wood, metal, or even repurposed skate parts. This allows for complete customization and can be a fun DIY project.
**Pros:**
* **Customizable:** You can design the mount to perfectly match your style and the dimensions of your skateboard.
* **Unique:** Creates a one-of-a-kind display.
* **Cost-Effective (Potentially):** Depending on the materials you use, this can be a budget-friendly option.
**Cons:**
* **Requires Skill:** Requires some woodworking or metalworking skills.
* **Time-Consuming:** Building your own mount can take time and effort.
**Ideas for DIY Skateboard Mounts:**
* **Wooden Mounts:** Cut and shape pieces of wood to create cradles or supports for your skateboard. Sand and finish the wood for a polished look.
* **Metal Mounts:** Weld or bend metal rods or brackets to create a sturdy and industrial-looking mount.
* **Repurposed Skate Parts:** Use old skateboard wheels, trucks, or decks to create a unique and eye-catching mount.
**Installation Steps (General):**
1. **Design and Build Your Mount:** Create your desired mount using your chosen materials and tools.
2. **Locate Studs (Recommended):** Use a stud finder to locate wall studs.
3. **Attach the Mount to the Wall:** Securely attach the mount to the wall, using screws or bolts that are appropriate for the weight of your skateboard and the type of wall you have. If you’re not hitting a stud, use wall anchors.
4. **Hang Your Skateboard:** Carefully place your skateboard onto the mount, ensuring it’s securely supported.
Tips for a Successful Skateboard Display
* **Consider the Wall Color:** A contrasting wall color can make your skateboard stand out. A light-colored board will pop against a dark wall, while a dark-colored board will look striking against a light wall.
* **Arrange Multiple Boards:** If you have multiple skateboards, consider arranging them in a visually appealing pattern. You can hang them in a row, in a staggered formation, or in a more abstract arrangement.
* **Use Proper Spacing:** Ensure there’s enough space between the skateboards to allow them to breathe and prevent them from bumping into each other.
* **Add Lighting:** Adding a spotlight or track lighting can highlight your skateboard display and create a dramatic effect.
* **Clean Your Skateboard:** Before hanging your skateboard, give it a good cleaning to remove any dirt, dust, or grime. This will help it look its best on the wall.
* **Protect Your Walls:** Consider using felt pads or bumpers on the back of the skateboard to prevent it from scratching the wall.
* **Think About the Room’s Overall Aesthetic:** Ensure the skateboard display complements the overall style of the room. A minimalist display might be perfect for a modern room, while a more eclectic display might suit a bohemian-style room.
* **Consider the Safety:** Make sure the skateboard is securely mounted and won’t fall and cause injury. Especially consider this if you have kids or pets in the house.
What You’ll Need
No matter which method you choose, you’ll likely need these basic tools and materials:
* **Stud Finder:** To locate wall studs.
* **Level:** To ensure your skateboard is hung straight.
* **Pencil:** For marking locations.
* **Drill (Optional):** For drilling pilot holes.
* **Screwdriver:** For driving screws.
* **Wall Anchors (If Necessary):** For hanging on drywall or plaster.
* **Measuring Tape:** To measure distances and ensure proper spacing.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from debris.
Conclusion
Hanging a skateboard on the wall is a simple yet effective way to add personality, save space, and display your passion. With a little planning and the right tools, you can create a stunning skateboard display that you’ll be proud to show off. Choose the method that best suits your needs, follow the steps carefully, and enjoy your newly decorated space. Whether you’re showcasing a vintage deck or a brand-new ride, a skateboard on the wall is a statement piece that reflects your unique style. Now go grab your board and get hanging!