Board Building Links
Andrew W’s Eclectic Workshop is THE BEST step by step guide that I’ve found. There are quite a few videos out there from much more experienced shapers but Andrew’s perspective is from a hobbyist so he explains things that the pros have stopped thinking about a long time ago. I recommend this as your first stop in learning to build a surfboard.
Craig from Crankin Surf has some nice posts on random topics related to surfboard construction and repair. He say’s he’s a hobbyist but he’s definitely levelled up a whole lot more than most. These are informative but I’m pretty sure I watch Craig’s videos because I’d love to have a beer with him someday.
For some more advanced videos, I really enjoy watching Matt Kazuma’s videos. Definitely one of the better and more regular video series from a master shaper.
Fiberglass Florida has been doing more instructional videos especially in conjunction with Heirloom surfboards. Before glassing I will review Matt Holladay’s video on glassing a surfboard just to prime my mind.
If reading is your thing, by far the best place you can check out is Greenlight Surfboard Supply. They have detailed guides on surfboard design and construction as well as supplies you can order. They do make some videos but their written guides are where it’s at.
If you live within a couple of hours driving distance to Burlington Washington, I would highly recommend you check out Fiberglass Supply. I can’t even begin to tell you how cool these folks are. They offer regular FREE workshops on composites topics including surfboard construction and they have all the supplies you need. I’ve learned a massive amount by going to the workshops and talking to the crew there. I go out of my way to pick up supplies when I drop in as a big thanks for all they do.
Puget Sound Area Kiteboarding Links
If you’re in the Seattle Area, make sure to stop by Urban Surf, for gear, info and more. The folks at Urban Surf are all outdoor enthusiast, have always been super friendly and go out of their way to take care of you. They will outfit you appropriately for your skill level and needs.
I took lessons from the Urban Surf Kiteboarding School, had a great time, made some great friends and learned all I needed to become an independent kiteboarder in the PNW. I’m more than happy to recommend them if you’re getting started. My board, El Jefe Jeffro was named after the owner of the school, Jeffro Rothenberg. Jeffro offers a wind clinic for Jetty in the Spring and another for other spots in the Fall. So even if you don’t need lessons but want to learn more about forecasting, you should check them out.
For kite repairs, Matt Ewing at The Kite Lesson did a great job when I ripped my canopy. I didn’t take lessons from them but a few friends of mine have and had really great experiences.
Forums and other info can be found at PSKite and NWKite. PSKite organizes events, maintains wind sensors and advocates for the kiteboarding community in the Puget Sound and beyond.
Much of the activity for the Seattle area happens on the Northwest kiteboarders facebook group. If you’re on FB, and looking to connect with the Seattle area community, you should take a look at that group.