How to Put Foam Grip Tape on a Tech Deck

Sup fellow fingerboard fanatics! Today, we’re diving into a subtle yet game-changing upgrade How to Put Foam Grip Tape on a Tech Deck. Even if your just learning how to fingerboard then trust me, this seemingly small tweak can take your fingerboarding to a whole new level of rad.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of putting foam grip tape on your deck, ensuring you not only shred with more control but also add a touch of personal flair to your mini skateboard. New shredders often don’t realize all the ways you can upgrade a tech deck, from trucks, wheels and more! So start with the Grip tape, then learn all the other ways.

While there are different types of fingerboard grip tape to choose from, foam grip tape is the clear winner. Don’t get me wrong, I will be testing others and keeping you updated.. But for now, it reigns supreme.

Get ready to transform your Tech Deck into something truly epic!

Step 1: Pick Your Tech Deck for Foam Grip Tape

If your like me, you got a stack of Fingerboards laying around. For me, I choose one of the boards from the Tech Deck vs Plan B series.

Somethings about that white board and launching off that ramp with foam grip tape got me excited…

Step 2: Peal Back that old Grip Tape

Time to part ways with that crusty old grip tape. The good news? It’s actually a breeze to peel off!

Just grab a corner and start lifting it gently. Trust me, there’s no science to it—just a little patience and a whole lot of love for your deck.

As you peel back the tape, savor the anticipation of the fresh foam grip tape coming your way. Remember, slow and steady wins the race here. Yank too fast, and you might leave a pesky residue. But don’t sweat it—you got this!

In no time, that old tape will be history, and your deck will be primed for its rad new look. Time to level up, my friends!

Caution: If it starts to peal off on the board

You’re peeling away your old grip tape, feeling like a boss, and then… bam! The tape decides to cling on for dear life, stubbornly sticking to your board.

No worries, my fellow fingerboard warrior! No need to stress out or break a sweat. Simply take a deep breath, flip your Tech Deck around, and start peeling from the other side.

Step 3: Check out that Slick Board

Once you’ve finally conquered that pesky grip tape, take a moment to bask in the glory of your now-slick board.

Pause and admire its smooth, shiny surface—it’s like gazing at a blank canvas full of endless possibilities!

Fun pro tip: before slapping on the new grip tape, why not shred a few dope moves on that naked deck?

Feel the raw, naked, slippery challenge and revel in the novelty of it. Who knows, you might discover a new trick or two just goofing around.

If you happen to spot any leftover residue, no biggie!

A quick scrape with your fingernail should do the trick and remove the last clingy bits.

Now that your board is all cleaned up, it’s primed and we are ready to add fresh foam grip tape to a tech deck.

Step 4: Start applying Foam Grip Tape

Time to lay down that sweet, cushiony foam grip tape! This is the moment where your deck goes from basic to utterly dope.

Here’s the best I can do.. Please leave tips and techniques in the comments!!

Start by positioning the tail of your fingerboard. Align the foam grip tape with one end of the fingerboard, making sure it’s centered.

Once you’re happy with the placement, press down firmly on the tail to secure the initial sticking point.

Now, here’s the magic part: slowly peel back the backing on the grip tape as you work your way towards the nose of the board.

Go steady and smooth, pressing down the foam tape bit by bit. This helps prevent any bubbles or creases, ensuring a clean, professional look.

Move methodically, and soon enough, your board will boast a fresh layer of foam grip tape, enhancing your control and style.

Take your time and be precise.

This is your board’s new outfit—make sure it’s looking sharp!

Step 5: Rough Trim with Scissors

it’s time to give it a rough trim.

Arm yourself with a trusty pair of scissors—I personally favor these snazzy beard scissors I found lying around, but hey, use what you’ve got.

Precision is key here, and sometimes the best tools are the unexpected ones. For me, I tried box cutters and they just didn’t cut it (pun absolutely intended).

Carefully trim around the edges of the board as close as you can.

Don’t worry about making it perfect at this stage; just get rid of the excess foam grip tape hanging off the sides.

Think of this as shaping the rough masterpiece you’ll refine later.

Keep the scissors steady and follow the contour of your deck.

It’s a bit like giving your board a haircut, and just like any good stylist, you’re setting the groundwork for a clean, polished look.

Once you’ve snipped away the bulk, your board will already start looking mighty fine and ready for some serious fine-tuning in the next step.

Step 6: Sanding the Flawless Finish

Time to move from rough cuts to refining your masterpiece. To achieve that seamless, professional finish, you’ll need a trusty nail file or some sandpaper. If you’re rocking some premium grip tape, you might have lucked out with one of those dope little files included—definitely put it to good use!

Here’s how to nail the sanding process (pun totally intended):

1. Choose Your Tool: Whether it’s a nail file, fine-grit sandpaper, or that specialty file, make sure it’s something that allows you to easily manipulate around your board’s edges.
2. Steady as You Go: Hold your board firmly and start sanding gently along the edges of the foam grip tape. You want to smooth out any jagged cuts from your earlier scissor work, so be patient and precise.
3. Angle Matters: Keep the file straight up and downat a slight angle, about 45 degrees, as you move it back and forth along the edge. This will help create a smooth, beveled finish rather than a harsh, straight cut.
4. Only Go Down: Make sure to always move the file downward along the board. Don’t file up and down. Just down, homie…
5. Feather Light: Don’t press too hard. Let the file do the work. You’re aiming for a controlled, slow exposure of the tape’s perfectly aligned edges.
6. Details, Details: Pay special attention to the curves—around the nose and tail. Slow down a bit here to ensure you preserve the natural shape of the board.

As you work your way around the deck, you’ll notice the edges becoming more refined and flush with the board. This step is all about taking your time and treating your board with the care it deserves.

Now, truth is, you are going to have to do this a few times to get the hang of and there are many tips how to sand by hand. But follow the tips above and practice makes perfection.

Before you know it, you’ll have a flawlessly finished fingerboard ready to tackle any trick you dream up. So sand with finesse, make it look pristine, and get ready to shred with unparalleled style!

Step 7: Shred in Style with Foam Grip Tape on a Tech Deck

And there you have it, my fellow fingerboard enthusiasts!

You now know how to put foam grip tape on a tech deck, be meticulously trimming and sanding it down to perfection, you created a work of art.

With these steps, you’ve transformed a standard fingerboard into a sleek, stylish instrument of mini gnar-shredding awesomeness.

So go on, hit the ramps, nail those ollies, and show off your deck’s new look. While you are at it, upgrade your board with the best fingerboard trucks for tricks and maybe even some new wheels.

Keep practicing, keep perfecting, and remember: even the smallest upgrades can make a huge difference. Stay rad and keep shredding, my friends!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Question: When sanding – is it better to sand at a 45 degree angle? or straight up and down at a 90 degree angle?

Great question, fellow fingerboard aficionado! When it comes to sanding your foam grip tape, the angle you choose can make a big difference in the final finish.

45-Degree Angle: This is generally the preferred method. Sanding at a 45-degree angle helps create a beveled edge, which not only looks sleek but also ensures a smoother transition between the grip tape and the edge of your deck. This angle allows you to carefully control the amount of material you’re removing, avoiding any accidental gouges or jagged edges.

90-Degree Angle: Going straight up and down at a 90-degree angle can work, but it’s trickier and tends to be less forgiving. This approach might lead to a more abrupt edge and could make it easier to accidentally over-sand. If you’re not careful, you could end up with uneven edges or inadvertently mar the surface of your deck.

My Two Cents: I highly recommend sticking with the 45-degree angle. It’s easier to manage and produces a cleaner, more polished look. Plus, it helps preserve the integrity and shape of your fingerboard. Just remember to be gentle and take your time—your goal is a smooth, contiguous edge that blends seamlessly with your deck.

So grab that nail file or sandpaper, angle it just right, and sand away to achieve that perfect finish. Your board’s going to look—and perform—totally rad!

Question: Is Foam Grip Tape Better on a Tech Deck?

Heck yeah, it absolutely is! Foam grip tape is a game-changer for anyone serious about fingerboarding. Let me break down why I can’t stand that rough sandpaper grip:

1. Comfort and Feel: Foam grip tape offers a soft, cushioned surface that feels way better on your fingers. It eliminates the abrasive, sandpaper-like texture of traditional grip tape, allowing you to fingerboard for longer without tearing up your skin. You’ll get through those marathon trick sessions with ease and without the battle scars.
2. Precision and Control: The foam material provides superior grip and control, giving you a more tactile connection to your deck. This enhanced sensitivity helps you nail intricate moves and land tricks with finesse. Trust me, the difference is night and day—you’ll feel like you have better command over your board.
3. Performance Boost: Foam grip tape is especially beneficial for tricks that require quick flicks and rapid spins. The extra grip ensures your fingers stay firmly on the deck, making it easier to execute complex maneuvers. Whether you’re hitting kickflips, heelflips, or nollies, foam tape boosts your performance to the next level.
4. Durability: While foam grip tape does tend to wear out quicker, it is worth it! Plus, changing up your grip tape is a fun, relaxing activity!
5. Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, a deck with fresh foam grip tape just looks cooler. Many brands offer options with different colors and designs, allowing you to customize your board and make it uniquely yours.

In short, making the switch to foam grip tape is totally worth it. It offers unparalleled comfort, increased control, and enhanced durability, all while keeping your fingers in tip-top shape. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to that sandpaper stuff again. So grab some foam grip tape and elevate your fingerboarding game to new heights!

Question: What if the old Grip Tape Gets Stuck to my Tech Deck?

We’ve all been there—mid-removal, and suddenly, the grip tape decides to bond with your board like it’s superglued. Don’t worry, you’ve got plenty of tricks up your sleeve to tackle this sticky situation. Here’s how to handle it:

1. Goo Gone: This magic potion is your best friend for removing stubborn adhesive. Apply a small amount of Goo Gone to the stuck area, let it sit for a moment, and then gently scrape it away. It dissolves the adhesive, making it much easier to peel off without damaging your board.
2. Warm Water: If you don’t have Goo Gone lying around, a little warm water can help too. Dampen a cloth with warm water and gently dab the sticky area. The warmth will soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove. Be careful not to soak your board—just a little water will do the trick.
3. Fingernail Power: Sometimes, all you need is a bit of elbow grease. Use your fingernail to slowly and meticulously scrape off the sticky residue. It might take a bit of patience, but it’s a straightforward and effective method.
4. Get Creative: There are plenty of household items that can come to the rescue. Try using a plastic scraper, an old gift card, or even the edge of a coin to gently lift the stubborn tape. Just be careful not to scratch your deck.
5. Adhesive Removers: Products specifically designed for removing adhesives, like rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover (acetone), can also be effective. Dab a bit on a cloth and gently rub the sticky part until it loosens up. Test a small area first to make sure it doesn’t affect the finish of your board.

Remember, the key is to be patient and gentle—no need to rush and risk damaging your beloved deck. With these techniques in your arsenal, you’ll have that grip tape off in no time, and your board will be primed for its next rad upgrade. Small upgrades and showing off your style is part of why fingerboarding is so fun! So take your time, pick your style, you got this!