How Custom Longboards Are Made in the USA

How Custom Longboards Are Made in the USA: The Ghost Boards Manufacturing Process

At Ghost Boards, every custom longboard begins with an idea and ends as a handcrafted board made in the USA. Most importantly, we build each board to order. As a result, no two boards are ever the same.

Below, we walk through the exact step-by-step process we use to manufacture custom acrylic longboards in the United States.

Step 1: Customer Artwork & Design Submission

First, every Ghost Board starts with customer artwork.

Customers submit black-and-white vector line art, preferably as an Adobe Illustrator (.AI) file. Although we accept high-resolution images, vector artwork produces the cleanest and most precise engravings.

Because vector files scale perfectly, they allow us to control every line with accuracy. Therefore, the final board matches the original design exactly.

How custom longboards are made in the USA

Step 2: Preparing the Design in Illustrator and AutoCAD

Next, our design team imports the artwork into Adobe Illustrator to refine line quality, spacing, and proportions.

After that, we move the finalized design into AutoCAD. At this stage, we actively assign specifications to every line, including engraving depth, thickness, and cutting paths. In addition, we outline the board shape and mark exact truck hole locations.

As a result, the CNC machine receives precise instructions before production begins.

Step 3: CNC Programming and Mold Creation

Once the digital design is ready, we create a custom wood mold for the board shape. This mold holds the acrylic securely in place during engraving. Consequently, it prevents shifting and ensures clean, consistent cuts.

Meanwhile, we program the CNC machine with the full design, including the shape, engraving paths, and truck holes. Once programmed, the board moves directly into the cutting phase.

How custom longboards are made in the USA

Step 4: Cutting and Engraving the Acrylic Board

We start with a 4’ x 8’ sheet of 18mm acrylic, chosen for strength, durability, and clarity.

First, the CNC machine cuts the board shape from the sheet. Then, we place the acrylic into the custom mold to stabilize it for engraving. After that, the machine engraves the artwork and drills all truck mounting holes.

Cut time depends on design complexity. For example, simple designs take about 7 minutes, while highly detailed designs can take up to one hour. Therefore, each board reflects the time and precision required for its unique artwork.

How custom longboards are made in the USA

Step 5: Assembly and Custom Components

After engraving, the board moves to our assembly table.

Here, our team installs the trucks, wheels, and bearings selected by the customer. In addition, we can add optional upgrades such as LED lighted wheels or custom resin details.

Typically, assembly takes 7 to 10 minutes per board. As a result, the board quickly transitions from raw acrylic to a fully rideable longboard.

How custom longboards are made in the USA

Step 6: Inspection, Cleaning, and Packaging

Finally, every Ghost Board goes through a detailed inspection.

We check the engraving, hardware alignment, and overall finish. Additionally, we verify any custom options, such as LEDs or resin work. Once approved, we clean the board, wrap it for protection, and box it securely for shipping.

As a result, each board arrives ready to ride right out of the box.

Made in the USA. Built One at a Time.

In conclusion, Ghost Boards manufactures every custom longboard in the USA using precision CNC technology and hands-on assembly. From digital artwork to final packaging, we control every step of the process.

If you can design it, we can build it.

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