Friday, July 31, 2026

 

What in a Shaping Bay?

I typed that question in a web browser and got this AI generated answer….

surfboard shaping bay is a dedicated workspace designed for the manual or CNC-based construction of surfboards, providing the necessary dimensions, lighting, and ventilation to handle foam blanks, resins, and dust.  Ideally measuring 15' x 10' x 11', the room typically features blue, green, or black walls to enhance visibility of the white foam and is equipped with fluorescent lights positioned 4–6 inches above the board to highlight surface curves. 

Key components of a functional shaping bay include:

·                        Ventilation: Powerful air conditioning and exhaust systems to remove harmful fumes and micro-particles from fiberglass and resins.

·                        Storage: Wall racks for holding blanks and completed boards, along with shelves for tools like rasps, planers, and sanding blocks. 

·                        Safety: Protective measures such as masks, eye protection, and often a shower or drain system to clean up dust and chemical residues

Of course, I know what a shaping bay is but I thought I’d ask the question.

I made my first surfboard in my early teens in the family garage.

 That’s where my lifelong endeavor of making surfboards began…over 60 years ago. 
After my wife and I lost our home and property due to major flooding and debris flows we finally found and moved to a place we call home. Three and a half years later. We move into the place this past December.

We’ve been doing things to the new place since we moved in and the last six weeks, I’ve been putting together my new workshop and shaping bay.

To be continued