How to Paint Surfboard Fins: Tribal Design Tutorial
Learn how to paint tribal designs on surfboard fins step by step, from prepping and sketching to sealing the artwork so it lasts. Includes video demo.
In this article, you'll learn
- How to prepare and clean fins before painting
- What steps take you from design idea to finished artwork
- How to seal painted fins so the art lasts
- Why some surfers choose to decorate their fins at all
To paint tribal designs on surfboard fins, clean and lightly sand the fin surface, sketch your design, paint it carefully with a paint pen, then seal it with clear varnish spray so the art survives in the water.
Surfboard fins are often the most boring part of a surfboard. Today I decided to change that by adding a touch of tribal art to three black FCS fins. It is easy to paint surfboard fins and in the video below I demonstrate exactly how.
1. Prepare the fin surface
Make sure your fins are clean. Give them a rub with some acetone (nail polish remover) and then a light sand with sandpaper.
2. Create a design
Draw some design ideas on paper. You can freestyle directly onto the fins if you like, but I recommend having a clear draft version first.
3. Start drawing
The fun part - take your time and draw carefully.
4. Seal the fins
Use a clear varnish spray to seal your artwork.
Why would you paint your surfboard fins?
Surfboard art won't make you surf faster, but it can make you happy. Some people like minimalist, plain surfaces while others prefer to fill these spaces with interesting designs. You don't have to draw tribal art like I do - use your imagination and draw anything that motivates, inspires or entertains you. At Surfd we're big fans of Dane Reynolds and his quirky artistic creations. His collaboration with Captain Fin has resulted in a collection of surf art that is suitably weird and wonderful. If you don't feel like painting your own fins you could always get a set of black panther fins by Dane. https://vimeo.com/178838606
Frequently asked questions
- What do I need to prepare fins before painting them?
- Clean the fins with acetone (nail polish remover) to strip wax and residue, then give them a light sand so the paint has something to grip.
- What should I paint with?
- A paint pen works well for fine tribal line work, letting you draw directly onto the fin after you've sketched your design on paper first.
- How do you protect painted fins so the design doesn't wash off?
- Seal the finished artwork with a clear varnish spray, which protects the paint from water and general wear.
- Do painted fins affect surfboard performance?
- No, painting your fins is purely decorative and won't make you surf faster or slower, it's simply a way to personalise your board.