No matter what kind of skater you are, odds are that you won’t be happy unless your dancing surface has the right texture and shape for your particular routine. Whether you haunt the streets or the skate park, dominate the quarter-pipe or the curb, choosing a deck that suits your needs will take a combination of trial-and-error, observation, and setting priorities for your skating.

The skateboard deck underwent a major design revolution when Richard Stevenson patented the concave structure in 1973, introducing front and rear kicks while opening a whole world of possibilities to the previously flat board. Today “concave” has become a technical noun in the glossary of the sport, despite appearing as adjective in standard dictionaries. The “concave” of your deck refers to the variance between kicks and the flat middle of your board. A shallower concave is choice for beginners, who will find a flatter board easier to control, whereas a deep spoon is favored by advanced trick skaters.

If you want an independent look with a professional feel, there are a number of companies that will accommodate skateboard artists who wish to add their own design to a custom-built skateboard deck. You can send in your design and order just one, though this can be expensive and the cost per unit goes down dramatically when you order in bulk.

Opportunities exist aplenty for a talented graphic artist in the skateboard world. One option would be to offer freelance skateboard deck design services. Of course, if you feel you’ve got what it takes, you can submit your design to the variety of deck and logo contests sponsored by bigger, already established skate companies. Winning decks can be released in a limited edition artist series, and sometimes a talented artist even lands a day job as a salaried designer.

Quality skateboard decks are made from virgin Canadian Maple, still the lumber of choice for skateboard bases. The standard deck is compiled from at least seven ply of lumber for strength. For traction, you’ll need a layer of grip tape, which comes stock with many decks, although applying your own gives you more control over the style and texture of your board. Blank decks are like canvases, and once you get the habit of installing rare graphics via the grip tape, you’ll never go back to a stock deck again.

On the other hand, maybe having a signature model from your favorite pro will lend you the confidence you need to mount that challenging half-pipe or take on that stairwell with the inviting handrail. In that case, you’ll probably pay a little extra for a pro edition or team model-but maybe the extra inspiration will be worth it.

Your skateboard deck is more than just the wood mounted to the two trucks; it’s the essence of your board, the platform for your performance, your personal billboard. Brand loyalties, personal philosophies, political statements and musical preferences are all expressed on the colorful decks of today’s skater. Making it your own creation can be half the fun.