Builder Profile: DB Skate Designs

“We love how Dale from DB Skate Designs took his passion and turned it into a business! Get inspired by his amazing creations to make your own handmade gifts or pick one up from his Etsy shop!”

Hi Dale, how are you today? Can you tell me a little about yourself and DB Skate Designs?

My name is Dale Bonnell, here's a little about myself. I started skating in the 6th grade and have been obsessed ever since. Skateboarding has always been my escape and has given me everything I have. Skateboarding has been a form of therapy for me. Getting out anger, aggression, frustration, sadness, you name it, skating has helped. I'm a US Army Combat Veteran, father, and jiu-jitsu competitor.

During the COVID outbreak, I started creating stuff from my old broken skateboards. I made myself a recycled skateboard ring. Instantly I had 40 orders. So, I decided to start my own company called DB Skate Designs. Then I started making all kinds of stuff, just seeing what I could do. I fell in love with the craft. Some of the best things in life happen by accidents. DB Skate Designs, is my happy little accident.

What got you into building skateboards? How long have you been building?

I thought it would be fun to try to make my own board. Found out it was possible, so I made my first one. With that, it gave me a whole new look on skating. Made me feel like a kid trying to land his first kickflip. It gave me a deeper love and passion for skating. I have been creating a total of 6 months now. I have just become obsessed and want to learn everything I can about what I like.

What inspires you to create your boards?

It's something I have always wanted to do. Bucket list kinda thing. Now I can't stop. I can't sit still, thank you ADHD.

Do you skate? How long have you been skating?

I have been skating since I was in 6th grade...about 20 years now. I feel old haha.

How do you use Roarockit products in the making of your work? How did you find out about us?

I use the Roarockit Thin Air Press for my cruisers. I use the RockitRuler for truck wheel base placement.

The veneers are amazing and fun to work with. Also, making my own boards inspired me to make my own mold and press.

I originally found out about Roarockit through other makers.

We see that you make other woodworking projects too! What types of other projects do you do and what do you have planned for the future?

I make all kinds of household items; rings, coffee scoops, bottle openers, pipes, coasters, tables, frames, etc. If it can be made out of wood I will try and make it out of skateboards!