Thankfully in amongst the surfboards coming through the Ocean Magic surfboard factory, many have graphics on them. Not only does this mean work for me, it is also another chance to load the spray gun, dip the bristles of a brush into a paint pot and add colour to what would otherwise be just a plain white surfboard.
Now, there is nothing wrong with a plain board, just a shaped foam blank, fibreglassed and then sanded. It is the choice of many, there is an idea of a surfboard being just for the business of riding waves...no frills.
But for a long time, almost from the beginning of surfboard production, graphics and artwork have been put on surfboards, using several methods, but mainly with an airbrush. It seems to make sense that such an individual pursuit would invite colour for a further scream of being different, especially in the early counter culture days of surfing and surfers.
I have sprayed surfboards since 1989 and have worked in factories all over the world. Essentially the industry still uses the same materials as it always has done. Of course there have been advancements here and there, plus diversions into new technology, but really it is still foam and fibreglass with the option of some colour.
That's when I turn up!
