Vertically Laminated LOngboard

[funkpod]

Hello, I plan on making another Longboard Skateboard out of Bamboo. This time, I am going to make it by vertically laminating strips.

Here's my process:

1.I am sanding all of the bumps out of the stalk.
2.THen I am cutting them into quarters.
3.THen i am sanding out the inside of the joints, so it is "relatively" flat.
4.THen i am going to glue them together length wise (vertically) in some clamps, using probably Titebond III.

NOW, my actual question. I have cured and dried bamboo using a blowtorch in the past.

Shoud I blowtorch my bamboo before I glue them up?

I know when I blowtorch it, the bamboo emits a resin that helps to seal it.

Will this resin help or hinder the glue from bonding?

It needs to be strong, i plan on skating on it.

ANy help?

THANKS!

~funkpod

[CaroleMeckes]

The process sounds similar to making a bamboo flyrod.

I'd suggest heat treating the bamboo before you glue the pieces together.

Another way you could smooth out the bamboo would be to use a froe.
http://www.bamboocraft.net/workshop/data/502/thumbs/BambooFroe060314-525.jpg (http://www.bamboocraft.net/workshop/showphoto.php?photo=1716)
(eliminates the dust of sanding - but takes some practice to learn to use)

Carole

[funkpod]

thanks for the help!

i think i will torch the bamboo to dry it, and then sand it lightly to get rid of any resin and allow the bamboo to be rougher, which will help the glue to adhere.

the froe looks VERY scary!

~funkpod

[speedykxmx]

I was thinking about doing the same thing except i was going to run my bamboo through a planer to make it perfect i think this is what loaded longboards does too. If you have made a board like this can you post some pics?!!

[speedykxmx]

i was also going to put some fiberglass sheets over it with some resin to make it strong and flexy.