Last Updated on July 10, 2024 by teamobn
Is there a used skateboard lying in your house that no one is using anymore? It might be the kids or you but if the owner doesn’t want to give it away, here are some ideas you could consider to put them to more useful purposes.
Or perhaps you know someone who is into skateboarding? Then these ideas would be great for gifts! Instead of buying them a new skateboard – which a lot of people will already think of – why not buy a used skateboard deck and convert them into one of the creative ideas below? A very thoughtful gift, isn’t it? Unless of course that person actually asked for a new skateboard from you :p
Upcycling Skateboard Decks Ideas
Broken skateboard decks or not, there are upcycling ideas for you. So start scrolling 🙂
“Broken” Wall Clock (from Hash Shop)
This creative idea for upcycling skateboard decks transforms a broken or unused deck into a functional and stylish wall clock. By utilizing the natural curve and the graphic art of the skateboard, Hash Shop creates a unique timepiece that serves as a focal point in any room. This project not only recycles old materials but also preserves a piece of skateboarding culture in a practical form.
Hanging Lamp (from Recycled Skateboards Intl)
Recycled Skateboards Intl takes upcycling skateboard decks to a new level by converting them into eye-catching hanging lamps. The colorful layers of the skateboard wood, known as the deck’s ply, become a stunning feature when lit from within, casting a warm, inviting glow. This hanging lamp is perfect for adding a touch of urban chic to any interior design scheme.
Drink Coaster (from Scene3)
Scene3 offers a simple yet innovative way to use upcycling skateboard decks by turning them into durable and artistic drink coasters. Each coaster is cut from the wood of old skateboards, showcasing the worn, vibrant graphics and the multicolored layers of ply. These coasters not only protect your surfaces but also serve as conversation starters at any gathering.
Coat Rack (from MidMod Vintage)
MidMod Vintage creatively embraces upcycling skateboard decks by crafting them into a modern coat rack. This functional piece retains the original skateboard shape, enhanced with hooks and fixtures to hang coats, hats, and scarves. It’s an ideal addition for an entryway, combining practicality with a nod to skate culture. The coat rack not only serves a crucial function but also acts as a striking piece of decor.
Bag (from RecyclArt)
RecyclArt takes upcycling skateboard decks to the fashion industry by transforming them into stylish bags. Utilizing the sturdy and flexible nature of the skateboard decks, these bags feature vibrant designs and are perfect for everyday use. Each bag is a testament to creative reuse, offering a durable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fabrics.
Headboard (from Kre Little Lab)
Kre Little Lab showcases an innovative approach to upcycling skateboard decks by converting them into artistic headboards. These headboards incorporate multiple skateboard decks, aligned and secured to create a colorful and textured addition to any bedroom. The unique patterns and colors of the skateboards provide a personal touch, making each headboard a one-of-a-kind centerpiece.
Shelves (from Inspiration Feed)
Inspiration Feed introduces a creative and functional use for upcycling skateboard decks by turning them into unique shelves. These shelves maintain the curvature and graphics of the original decks, adding a dynamic element to any wall space. Ideal for displaying books, collectibles, or even more skate-related items, these shelves are not only practical but also serve as a striking visual statement in any room.
Chalkboard (from Convoy)
Convoy creatively adopts upcycling skateboard decks to craft bespoke chalkboards. By repurposing the flat surfaces of old decks, they create a space for writing notes, menus, or inspirational quotes. These chalkboards blend the rustic charm of skateboard art with functional utility, perfect for kitchens, workshops, or children’s rooms, adding a playful and personalized touch.
Backsplash Tiles (from Art of Board)
Art of Board takes upcycling skateboard decks to an innovative level by transforming them into colorful backsplash tiles. These tiles are crafted from the wood of used skateboards, featuring the scuffs and marks of their previous life, which adds character and history to any kitchen or bathroom. The vibrant patterns and sturdy material make these tiles not only a sustainable choice but also a focal point that tells a story.
Guitar (from Bless This Stuff)
Bless This Stuff pushes the boundaries of upcycling skateboard decks by converting them into functional guitars. This imaginative project taps into the structural strength and the aesthetic appeal of skateboards, utilizing their wooden bodies to craft guitar bodies. Each guitar not only sounds unique but also features the colorful, graphical elements of the original skate decks, making them visually striking and highly personalized musical instruments.
Pet Feeder (from Inspiration Feed)
Inspiration Feed offers a pet-friendly take on upcycling skateboard decks by creating bespoke pet feeders. These feeders are crafted using the robust and flat surface of the skateboard, ideally suited to hold water and food bowls. The height and curvature of the decks make them perfect for pets, providing a comfortable feeding position. Additionally, the vibrant designs of the skateboards add a playful and stylish element to any pet owner’s home.
Magazine Rack (from RecyclArt)
RecyclArt transforms upcycling skateboard decks into chic magazine racks. By utilizing the length and flexibility of the skate decks, these racks serve as a trendy and compact solution for storing magazines, newspapers, or small books. The graphical elements of the skateboards give these racks a modern look, blending seamlessly into contemporary decor. These racks are not only practical storage solutions but also serve as art pieces that celebrate the culture of skateboarding.
Swing (from NIZE Design)
NIZE Design innovatively uses upcycling skateboard decks to create playful and sturdy swings. These swings repurpose the solid, curved structure of the decks to provide a comfortable and durable seat, ideal for both children and adults. Suspended by strong ropes or chains, these swings add a fun and whimsical element to any outdoor or indoor space. The vibrant graphics on the decks also contribute to the visual appeal, making each swing not just a functional item but also a piece of decorative art.
Bookends (from Inspiration Feed)
Inspiration Feed explores the versatility of upcycling skateboard decks by transforming them into stylish bookends. Each set of bookends uses the toughness and weight of the decks to support and organize books, magazines, or albums. The colorful and often intricate designs on the skateboard surfaces provide a unique aesthetic touch to any bookshelf, blending functionality with style and serving as a great conversation starter in any home or office setting.
Wall Art (from Kre Little Lab)
Kre Little Lab takes upcycling skateboard decks to an artistic level by crafting them into distinctive pieces of wall art. Utilizing both whole and broken decks, they create compositions that showcase the weathered textures and vibrant graphics of the skateboards. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the journeys and tricks they’ve been part of, making them not only beautiful but also rich in history. This approach offers a creative way to preserve and celebrate skateboarding culture while adding a modern touch to any room’s decor.
Eco-friendly Benefits of Upcycling Skateboard Decks
Old skateboard boards not only provide worn-out sports equipment fresh life but also operate as a sustainable habit with many positive effects on the surroundings. Here is a peek at the notable impact upcycling skateboard boards may create:
Reduces Waste in Landfills
Many skateboards that are thrown out each year wind up in landfills where they occupy space and add to the mounting solid waste issue. Upcycling skateboard boards into new goods like furniture, artwork, or house decorations helps us greatly cut the waste ending up in these landfills. This habit not only helps to save space but also lessens the environmental effects related to garbage management and breakdown.
Conserves Resources
New product manufacturing usually calls for a large volume of raw materials, water, and energy among other things. By turning skateboard decks into other products, one lessens the need for new materials, therefore preserving natural resources. Sustainable living depends on this conservation since it minimizes the depletion of natural resources, lowers energy consumption, and lowers the general carbon footprint related with manufacturing.
Promotes Sustainable Consumption
Additionally promoting sustainable consumption is upcycling skateboard boards. Choosing upcycled products lets customers support recycling initiatives and assist to establish a market for repurposed goods. This change in consumer behavior might cause more companies to embrace sustainable methods, therefore benefiting environmental preservation. Furthermore, upcycled goods can have interesting backgrounds and tales that offer value and relevance outside of their practical application.
Enhances Environmental Awareness
Upcycling skateboard decks raises environmental awareness by showcasing creative alternatives to waste. Each upcycled item serves as a visual reminder of the possibilities for reducing and reusing materials. This awareness can inspire others to consider sustainable practices in their daily lives and can lead to a broader understanding of environmental impact.
Reduces Pollution
The process of creating new products, especially those involving plastic or metal, can release harmful pollutants into the air and water. Upcycling skateboard decks minimizes the need for new production, thereby reducing the emissions associated with manufacturing processes. This decrease in pollution contributes to cleaner air and water, benefiting ecosystems and human health alike.
Supports Local Economies
Often, upcycling initiatives are local ventures that provide jobs and support small businesses. By purchasing upcycled skateboard deck products, consumers can support local artisans and entrepreneurs who are working towards sustainable solutions. This support can help grow local economies and foster a community-oriented approach to sustainability.
Encourages Creativity and Innovation
Upcycling challenges individuals to think creatively about reusing materials. The process of transforming an old skateboard deck into something new and functional can spark innovation and lead to the development of unique products and designs. This creativity can be especially impactful in the design and art communities, encouraging more sustainable practices in these fields.
Extends Product Lifecycles
Upcycling helps extend the lifecycle of materials that would otherwise be discarded. By repurposing skateboard decks, their lifespan is significantly increased, which helps to cultivate a culture of longevity and value in products rather than disposability. This practice can challenge the prevailing throwaway culture and promote more thoughtful consumption.
These eco-friendly benefits of upcycling skateboard decks highlight the importance of rethinking our consumption patterns and embracing sustainable practices. By supporting and engaging in upcycling, we not only help protect the environment but also contribute to a more sustainable and resource-efficient world.
Conclusion
The range of upcycling skateboard decks ideas showcases the endless creativity and practicality in giving old materials new life. These innovative projects not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance home and community spaces with unique, eco-friendly products. Embracing these upcycling practices can lead to more sustainable lifestyles and inspire further environmental consciousness across various sectors.
