Skateboarding is a popular sport and hobby that has been around for decades. It is a form of self-expression and creativity that allows individuals to showcase their skills and personality. One way that skateboarders can express themselves is through skateboard drawing.
Skateboard drawing involves using a skateboard deck as a canvas to create unique and eye-catching designs. From simple logos and graphics to intricate illustrations, skateboard drawing allows individuals to showcase their artistic talents and add a personal touch to their skateboard. In this article, we will explore 21 skateboard drawing ideas that will inspire and challenge skateboarders of all skill levels.
1) Realistic Skateboard
A realistic skateboard drawing is an excellent way to showcase one’s artistic skills. The skateboard’s design, wheels, and trucks must be accurately depicted to create a realistic effect. The artist must also pay attention to the skateboard’s texture and shadows to make the drawing appear more lifelike.
One way to create a realistic skateboard drawing is to use a reference image. The artist can study the image to understand the skateboard’s structure and details. They can then use this knowledge to create a drawing that accurately depicts the skateboard.
Another technique is to use shading to create the illusion of depth and dimension. The artist can use a combination of light and dark strokes to create shadows and highlights, giving the skateboard a realistic appearance.
Overall, a realistic skateboard drawing requires attention to detail and an understanding of the skateboard’s structure and design. With practice and patience, anyone can create a stunning skateboard drawing that accurately depicts this beloved sport.
2) Graffiti Style Deck
Skateboard decks are not just for riding, they can also be a canvas for art. Graffiti style decks are a popular option for those who want to add some personality to their skateboard.
Graffiti style decks are often characterized by bold, vibrant colors and intricate designs. They can feature anything from words and phrases to images and abstract shapes. The designs are often inspired by street art and can add a unique touch to any skateboard.
One of the benefits of a graffiti style deck is that it can be customized to fit the rider’s personality. Whether you’re into bright colors or more muted tones, there’s a design out there for you. Additionally, graffiti style decks can be a great way to support local artists and showcase their work.
When it comes to choosing a graffiti style deck, there are many options available. Some popular brands include Element, Santa Cruz, and Girl. It’s important to choose a deck that is high quality and durable, as it will be subjected to wear and tear from riding.
Overall, a graffiti style deck is a great way to add some flair to your skateboard and showcase your personal style. With so many options available, there’s sure to be a design that speaks to you.
3) Retro 80s Theme
Skateboarding and the 80s go hand in hand. The era was a defining moment in skateboarding as it saw the rise of street skateboarding and the birth of many iconic skateboard graphics. The retro 80s theme is a popular choice for skateboard drawings, and for good reason.
The 80s theme is all about bright neon colors, bold geometric shapes, and futuristic designs. Think Miami Vice meets Tron. Skateboarders in the 80s were known for their flashy style and fearless attitude, and the graphics on their boards reflected this.
To create a retro 80s skateboard drawing, start by incorporating bold, bright colors. Think neon pinks, greens, and blues. Use geometric shapes like triangles, squares, and circles to create a futuristic feel. Add in some abstract designs like lightning bolts or splatters to give it that edgy, street vibe.
When it comes to the graphics themselves, draw inspiration from iconic skateboard graphics of the era. Look to brands like Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, and Vision Skateboards for ideas. Incorporate elements like skulls, snakes, and dragons for an extra dose of 80s cool.
Overall, the retro 80s theme is a great choice for skateboard drawings. It’s bold, it’s fun, and it’s sure to turn heads at the skatepark.
4) Floral Patterns
Floral patterns are a popular choice for skateboard designs. They can add a touch of femininity to a board or provide a more organic feel. There are a variety of floral patterns to choose from, including roses, daisies, and sunflowers.
One approach to creating a floral pattern is to draw a single flower in the center of the board and then add smaller flowers and leaves around it. Another option is to draw a repeating pattern of flowers and leaves across the entire board.
When it comes to color, there are a few different directions to take. One option is to use bright, bold colors to make the flowers stand out. Another option is to use more muted tones for a more subtle effect.
Overall, floral patterns can add a unique and eye-catching touch to a skateboard design. Whether you opt for a single flower or a repeating pattern, there are endless possibilities for creating a beautiful and functional skateboard.
5) Geometric Shapes
Geometric shapes are a popular theme in skateboard art. They can be used to create intricate designs or simple patterns that add a unique touch to any board.
Triangles, squares, and circles are the most commonly used shapes in skateboard art. These shapes can be arranged in various ways to create interesting patterns and designs. For example, a series of triangles can be arranged to create a diamond pattern, while squares can be arranged in a checkerboard pattern.
Geometric shapes can also be used as a background for other design elements, such as logos or images. They can be filled with color or left as outlines, depending on the desired effect.
When using geometric shapes in skateboard art, it’s important to consider the size and placement of the design. A large, intricate design may look great on a longboard, but may be overwhelming on a smaller skateboard. Similarly, a design that covers the entire board may not be appropriate for a beginner skateboarder who needs more space to practice tricks.
Overall, geometric shapes are a versatile and eye-catching element in skateboard art. They can be used to create a wide range of designs and patterns that are sure to stand out on any board.
6) Animal Portraits
Skateboard art is not limited to human portraits and designs. Animal portraits are also a popular choice among skateboard enthusiasts. In fact, animal-themed designs are some of the most sought-after skateboard graphics today.
Animal portraits can be drawn in a realistic or cartoonish style, depending on the artist’s preference. Realistic animal portraits require a lot of attention to detail and skill in shading and coloring. Cartoonish animal portraits, on the other hand, are more playful and lighthearted, and often feature exaggerated features and expressions.
Some popular animal portraits for skateboard designs include wolves, bears, tigers, lions, and eagles. These animals are known for their strength, power, and grace, making them a perfect fit for the sport of skateboarding.
Skateboarders who choose animal portraits as their design of choice often do so because of a personal connection to the animal or because they admire its characteristics. Regardless of the reason, animal portraits are a great way to add a unique touch to any skateboard design.
7) Fantasy Creatures
Skateboard drawing enthusiasts who love fantasy creatures will find plenty of inspiration in this section. From dragons to unicorns, there are a variety of mythical creatures that can be incorporated into skateboard designs.
One popular option is to draw a dragon wrapping around the skateboard deck, with its wings and tail extending onto the grip tape. Another idea is to draw a unicorn with its horn pointing towards the nose of the board.
For a more whimsical approach, skateboard artists can draw a group of fairies or elves dancing around the edges of the deck. Alternatively, a centaur or mermaid can be drawn in a dynamic pose, adding a sense of movement to the design.
When it comes to color choices, fantasy creatures offer a wide range of possibilities. From fiery reds and oranges for dragons to pastel pinks and purples for unicorns, the color scheme can be tailored to match the personality of the creature being depicted.
Overall, fantasy creatures offer a fun and imaginative way to add personality to a skateboard design.
8) Abstract Art
Abstract art is a style of art that is based on shapes, colors, and textures rather than representing the world in a realistic way. Skateboarders who are interested in abstract art can use their boards as a canvas to express their creativity and experiment with different techniques.
One way to create abstract art on a skateboard is to use a variety of colors and shapes to create a visually interesting design. Skateboarders can use paint, markers, or other materials to create unique patterns and textures on their boards.
Another approach to abstract art on a skateboard is to focus on a particular theme or concept. For example, a skateboarder might create an abstract design that represents the feeling of speed or the sensation of flying through the air.
Skateboarders who are interested in abstract art can also experiment with different materials and techniques to create unique designs. For example, they might try using stencils, spray paint, or other tools to create interesting patterns and textures on their boards.
Overall, abstract art is a great way for skateboarders to express their creativity and experiment with different techniques on their boards.
9) Comic Book Style
Skateboard drawings can be inspired by various art styles, including the comic book style. This style is characterized by bold outlines, vibrant colors, and exaggerated features.
When drawing a skateboard design in the comic book style, it’s essential to focus on creating dynamic poses and action-packed scenes. Characters should be drawn in a way that conveys movement and energy, with bold lines and expressive facial expressions.
To achieve the comic book style, artists can use various techniques, such as crosshatching, shading, and color gradients. The use of bright and contrasting colors can also help to make the design stand out.
One advantage of the comic book style is that it allows for a lot of creativity and experimentation. Artists can play with different perspectives, angles, and compositions to create unique and exciting designs.
Overall, the comic book style is an excellent choice for skateboard drawings, as it can add a sense of fun and excitement to any design. With its bold lines, vibrant colors, and dynamic poses, this style is sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees it.
10) Nature Scenes
Nature scenes are a popular subject for skateboard drawings. Artists can capture the beauty of nature and incorporate it into their skateboard designs. From mountains and forests to oceans and beaches, the possibilities are endless.
One popular nature scene for skateboard drawings is a sunset or sunrise. The vibrant colors of the sky can be used to create a stunning backdrop for a skateboard design. Another popular option is a mountain landscape, featuring snow-capped peaks and lush forests.
Beaches are also a popular choice for skateboard drawings. Artists can incorporate palm trees, waves, and sand into their designs to create a laid-back, tropical vibe. Ocean scenes featuring marine life such as dolphins or whales are also a great option.
Overall, nature scenes offer a wide range of possibilities for skateboard drawings. Whether you prefer a serene mountain landscape or a vibrant beach scene, there is a nature-inspired design that will suit your style.
11) Cityscapes
Cityscapes are a popular theme in skateboard drawing. They offer a unique perspective on urban life and can be a great way to showcase a skater’s love for their city. Drawing cityscapes on a skateboard can be challenging, but with practice, anyone can create stunning designs.
When drawing a cityscape on a skateboard, it’s important to consider the scale and perspective of the design. It’s also important to pay attention to the details of the buildings and landmarks that make up the city. This can include everything from the shape of the buildings to the colors of the street signs.
One approach to drawing a cityscape on a skateboard is to focus on a specific area or landmark within the city. For example, a skater might choose to draw the skyline of their city, or a famous landmark such as the Eiffel Tower or the Statue of Liberty. This can create a striking visual effect that captures the essence of the city.
Overall, cityscapes are a versatile and exciting theme for skateboard drawing. With a little creativity and attention to detail, anyone can create a unique and eye-catching design that showcases their love for their city.
12) Space Exploration
Skateboard drawings featuring space exploration are a popular choice for those who are fascinated by the mysteries of the universe. From the iconic NASA logo to the intricate details of a spaceship, there are numerous ways to incorporate space-themed elements into skateboard art.
One approach is to depict famous space missions, such as the Apollo moon landing or the Hubble Space Telescope repair mission. Another option is to showcase different planets, such as Mars or Jupiter, and their unique features. The use of vibrant colors and bold lines can help bring these celestial bodies to life on a skateboard deck.
Skateboard art can also pay homage to famous astronauts, such as Neil Armstrong or Sally Ride, who have made significant contributions to space exploration. Portraying their iconic space suits or spacecraft can serve as a reminder of their bravery and dedication to science.
Overall, space exploration offers a wealth of inspiration for skateboard artists looking to create unique and eye-catching designs. Whether it’s a simple depiction of the moon or a complex rendering of a spacecraft, the possibilities are endless.
13) Surreal Designs
Surreal skateboard designs are a great way to showcase your creativity and imagination. These designs often feature dreamlike or fantastical elements that challenge the viewer’s perception of reality.
One popular surreal design is the “floating skateboarder” motif, where the skateboarder appears to be defying gravity and floating in mid-air. This design can be achieved by using bold, contrasting colors and incorporating elements like clouds or stars to create a dreamlike atmosphere.
Another popular surreal design is the “animal hybrid” theme, where different animals are combined to create a unique and fantastical creature. This design can be achieved by using intricate line work and incorporating elements like feathers or scales to create a sense of texture and depth.
Surreal designs can also incorporate elements of nature, such as trees, flowers, and other organic forms. These designs can be achieved by using muted, earthy tones and incorporating elements like vines or leaves to create a sense of movement and flow.
Overall, surreal skateboard designs offer a unique and imaginative way to express yourself and your individuality. Whether you prefer bold, bright colors or more muted, organic tones, there is sure to be a surreal design that speaks to your personal style and aesthetic.
14) Optical Illusions
Optical illusions are a great way to add a unique twist to your skateboard drawings. By using optical illusions, you can create an eye-catching design that will make your board stand out from the crowd.
One popular optical illusion technique is the use of contrasting colors. By using colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, you can create a design that appears to vibrate or move. This can be a great way to create a dynamic design that really pops.
Another popular technique is the use of perspective. By drawing lines that converge towards a vanishing point, you can create the illusion of depth and dimension. This can be a great way to create a design that appears to jump off the board.
Finally, you can also use repetition to create an optical illusion. By repeating a pattern or design, you can create a mesmerizing effect that draws the eye in. This can be a great way to create a design that is both simple and striking.
Overall, optical illusions are a great way to add a unique twist to your skateboard drawings. By using contrasting colors, perspective, and repetition, you can create a design that is both eye-catching and memorable.
15) Pop Art
Pop Art is a style that emerged in the 1950s and 60s, characterized by its use of bold colors, graphic patterns, and popular culture references. Skateboard drawings inspired by Pop Art often feature bright, eye-catching designs that incorporate elements of comic books, advertising, and consumer culture.
One popular technique in Pop Art skateboard drawings is the use of halftone patterns, which are created by overlaying small dots of varying sizes to create the illusion of shading and depth. This technique can be used to create stylized portraits of famous skateboarders or to add texture and visual interest to abstract designs.
Another hallmark of Pop Art skateboard drawings is the use of bold, contrasting colors. Skateboarders may opt for bright primary colors, or experiment with unexpected color combinations to create a unique and eye-catching design.
Overall, Pop Art is a fun and playful style that can add a touch of whimsy and personality to any skateboard drawing. Whether you’re a fan of classic comic book art or contemporary street art, there’s sure to be a Pop Art-inspired skateboard design that suits your style.
16) Tattoo-Inspired Art
Skateboard art has been heavily influenced by tattoo culture, and many skateboard designs feature tattoo-inspired artwork. Tattoo-inspired skateboard art often incorporates bold lines, intricate details, and dark imagery.
One popular tattoo-inspired design is the skull. Skulls have been a staple of tattoo art for decades, and they are a common motif in skateboard art as well. Skull designs can range from realistic to stylized, and they can be paired with other elements like flowers, snakes, or flames.
Another common tattoo-inspired design is the dagger. Daggers are often used in tattoo art to symbolize strength, danger, or protection, and they can be incorporated into skateboard designs in a variety of ways. Some skateboard designs feature a single dagger, while others feature multiple daggers arranged in a pattern.
Tattoo-inspired skateboard art can also feature animals, like wolves or snakes, or mythological creatures, like dragons or mermaids. These designs often incorporate intricate details and bold lines, and they can be paired with other elements like flowers or flames to create a dynamic and eye-catching design.
Overall, tattoo-inspired skateboard art is a popular choice for skaters who want to express themselves through their board graphics. With its bold lines, dark imagery, and intricate details, tattoo-inspired skateboard art is sure to turn heads both on and off the skatepark.
17) Cultural Symbols
Skateboarding has always been closely associated with popular culture and has become a cultural symbol in its own right. Skateboard graphics often incorporate cultural symbols and references, making them a unique art form that reflects the values and interests of the skateboarding community.
Cultural symbols are often used to express identity, values, and beliefs. Skateboard graphics often feature symbols that are associated with popular culture, such as cartoon characters, music icons, and movie references. These symbols are often used to express a sense of rebellion, individuality, and creativity.
In addition to popular culture symbols, skateboard graphics also incorporate symbols from other cultures. For example, graphics may feature traditional Japanese art or Native American symbols. These symbols are often used to express respect for other cultures and to promote cultural diversity.
Overall, cultural symbols play an important role in skateboard graphics and reflect the values and interests of the skateboarding community. Skateboarding has become a cultural symbol in its own right, and skateboard graphics are a unique art form that continues to evolve and inspire new generations of artists and skateboarders.
18) Mythological Themes
Skateboard drawing ideas are not just limited to pop culture and current trends. Mythological themes can also be a great source of inspiration for skateboard designs.
One of the most popular mythological themes used in skateboard art is the Greek gods and goddesses. Designs featuring Zeus, Apollo, Athena, and other gods and goddesses are often depicted in a modern and edgy way, giving the traditional mythological characters a contemporary twist.
Another popular mythological theme is the Norse gods and goddesses. Designs featuring Thor, Odin, Loki, and other Norse gods and goddesses are often depicted with bold and intricate designs, incorporating elements of Viking culture and mythology.
Mythological creatures such as dragons, unicorns, and griffins are also popular themes in skateboard art. These creatures are often depicted in a fierce and powerful way, with bold colors and intricate details.
Overall, mythological themes offer a unique and creative source of inspiration for skateboard drawings. By incorporating traditional mythological characters and creatures into modern designs, skateboard artists can create truly unique and eye-catching designs.
19) Music-Inspired Art
Skateboarding and music have always had a close relationship, and it’s no surprise that many skateboarders are also musicians or music enthusiasts. Music-inspired art is a great way to combine these two passions and create unique and expressive skateboard designs.
One popular approach is to incorporate lyrics or song titles into the artwork. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as using typography to create a bold and graphic design, or incorporating imagery that relates to the song’s lyrics.
Another way to create music-inspired art is to use album covers or band logos as inspiration. Skateboard graphics that pay homage to classic albums or iconic bands can be a great way to show off your musical tastes while also expressing your love for skateboarding.
Finally, many skateboarders find inspiration in the energy and attitude of live music performances. Capturing the movement and excitement of a concert in a skateboard design can be a great way to create a dynamic and eye-catching graphic.
Overall, music-inspired art offers a wide range of creative possibilities for skateboarders looking to express themselves through their boards. Whether you’re a musician, a music lover, or simply looking to create a unique and expressive skateboard design, there are endless ways to incorporate your favorite songs and bands into your artwork.
20) Sports Themes
Sports themes are a popular choice for skateboard drawings. Skateboarders often have a passion for sports, and incorporating these themes into their artwork is a great way to showcase their interests.
One popular sports theme is basketball. Skateboarders can draw their favorite basketball players or create a design with basketball-related imagery such as hoops, basketballs, and jerseys. Another popular sports theme is football. Skateboarders can draw their favorite football players or create a design with football-related imagery such as helmets, footballs, and goalposts.
Other sports themes that are commonly used in skateboard drawings include baseball, soccer, and skateboarding itself. Skateboarders can draw their favorite baseball players or create a design with baseball-related imagery such as bats, balls, and gloves. They can also draw their favorite soccer players or create a design with soccer-related imagery such as cleats, balls, and nets.
Overall, sports themes are a great way for skateboarders to express their love for their favorite sports through their artwork. The possibilities are endless, and skateboarders can create unique designs that showcase their individuality and creativity.
21) Inspirational Quotes
Skateboarding is not just a sport but a lifestyle that demands creativity, courage, and persistence. Inspirational quotes can help skaters stay motivated and focused on achieving their goals. Here are 21 quotes that can inspire skaters of all levels:
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
- “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
- “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt
- “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela
- “I skate to escape reality.” – Nyjah Huston
- “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
- “Skateboarding teaches you how to take a fall properly. If you try to kickflip down some stairs, it might take you thirty tries – and you just learn how to take a tumble out of it without getting hurt.” – Bam Margera
- “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
- “Skateboarding is not a hobby. And it is not a sport. Skateboarding is a way of learning how to redefine the world around you.” – Ian Mackaye
- “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” – Thomas Edison
- “Skateboarding is not about being better than someone else. It’s about being better than you were the day before.” – Tony Hawk
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
- “Skateboarding is a way of life, not a sport.” – Stacy Peralta
- “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
- “Skateboarding is an art, a lifestyle, and a sport.” – Rodney Mullen
- “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African proverb
- “Skateboarding is a way to express your creativity and individuality.” – Rob Dyrdek
- “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” – Socrates
- “Skateboarding is not a crime.” – Unknown
- “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” – Chinese proverb
- “Skateboarding is a way of feeling alive.” – Paul Rodriguez
These quotes can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for skaters who are looking to improve their skills and achieve their goals.
Materials Needed for Skateboard Drawing
Pencils and Pens
When it comes to sketching skateboard designs, having the right pencils and pens is crucial. A range of pencils with different lead grades, such as 2H, HB, and 2B, can be useful for creating different line weights and shading effects. Additionally, a set of fine-tipped pens, such as Micron or Copic pens, can be handy for adding details and outlines to your designs.
Paper Types
Choosing the right paper for your skateboard drawings can make a big difference in the final result. A smooth surface can be ideal for creating clean lines and details, while a textured surface can add depth and dimension to your designs. Some popular paper types for skateboard drawing include Bristol board, marker paper, and watercolor paper.
Digital Tools
For those who prefer to create their skateboard designs digitally, there are a variety of tools available. A graphics tablet, such as a Wacom Intuos or Cintiq, can allow you to draw directly onto your computer screen with a stylus. Alternatively, there are a variety of drawing apps available for tablets and smartphones, such as Procreate and Adobe Sketch, which can offer a range of brushes and tools for creating digital skateboard designs.
Overall, having a variety of pencils and pens, choosing the right paper type, and exploring digital tools can all be valuable for creating unique and eye-catching skateboard designs.
Techniques for Drawing Skateboards
Basic Shapes
When it comes to drawing skateboards, it’s important to start with the basics. Begin with the basic shapes such as rectangles, circles, and triangles. These shapes will form the foundation of your skateboard drawing. Start by drawing the rectangular shape of the skateboard deck. Then, draw the circular shapes of the wheels and the triangular shape of the nose and tail of the skateboard. Once you have these basic shapes in place, you can start to add more details to your drawing.
Adding Details
To make your skateboard drawing more realistic, you need to add details. Start by drawing the trucks, which are the metal parts that attach the wheels to the skateboard deck. Then, add the bolts that hold the trucks in place. Next, draw the grip tape, which is the rough surface on top of the skateboard deck that provides traction for the rider’s feet. Finally, add any logos or designs that you want to include on the skateboard.
Shading and Texturing
Shading and texturing are important techniques that can add depth and dimension to your skateboard drawing. Start by shading the underside of the skateboard deck to create the illusion of depth. Then, add shading to the wheels and the trucks to make them look more three-dimensional. Use cross-hatching to create texture on the grip tape and the skateboard deck. Finally, add highlights to the skateboard to make it look shiny and reflective.
By using these basic techniques, you can create a realistic and detailed skateboard drawing. Remember to start with the basic shapes, add details, and use shading and texturing to bring your drawing to life. With practice, you can create skateboard drawings that look like they’re ready to ride.