Part 3 of the Skateboard Build Competition is LIVE
This episode I finally start putting the vision onto the board. In this part of the series you see me drawing and outlining the full concept for my custom skateboard design. The theme I decided to go with is an anime inspired woman wearing a Deftones T-shirt, riding the vibe of one of my favorite Deftones tracks — “Cherry Waves.”
The goal of the design is to capture that dreamy, atmospheric Deftones aesthetic while blending it with my own Dead Threadz NJ style. At the top of the board I added the Dead Threadz NJ logo, tying the whole piece into the brand and giving it that signature look.
Toward the end of the video ZenKatsCloset jumps in and talks about the design she’s working on for her board — and let’s just say it involves a cat concept that’s definitely going to make this competition interesting.
This whole series is building toward the final reveal where you all get to decide who designed the better board.
So watch the progress, follow the series, and get ready to vote.
Who do you think is going to win this one? 👀
Participating in a skateboard build competition like this one is an exhilarating experience that challenges both creativity and technical skills. What I particularly enjoy about integrating music and streetwear into skateboard art is the ability to tell a unique story through the deck’s visuals. Designing a board inspired by the Deftones track “Cherry Waves” creates a dreamy, atmospheric feeling that resonates with both fans of the band and skateboard culture enthusiasts alike. In my experience, starting by sketching out the full concept, as shown in this episode, helps crystallize the vision. Combining elements like anime motifs with iconic streetwear brands such as Dead Threadz NJ not only adds personal flair but also connects with diverse audiences. Including a signature logo at the top of the board is a great way to brand your design, making it instantly recognizable. Also, collaboration or friendly competition—like the creative cat-themed concept introduced by ZenKatsCloset—adds an exciting layer of community engagement. It’s fascinating to see how different artists interpret the challenge, drawing from their unique influences. One tip I’ve learned is to carefully select color palettes and line art styles that match the mood you want to evoke; for a Deftones-inspired board, softer and moody tones can perfectly complement the musical vibe. Additionally, paying attention to skateboard graphics trends, such as incorporating popular culture references (in this case, the band and anime culture), can increase the design’s appeal to a wider skateboarding audience. Overall, participating in such a series is not just about crafting a board but about sharing a piece of your artistic journey and connecting with others who appreciate the blend of art, music, and skateboarding. Keep an eye on the competition’s progress and explore different artistic styles—it’s an inspiring way to push your design skills while celebrating the culture.
