There is nothing like being on a surf trip far away from any surf shop and coming out of the water after a fun session to see a fat crack in your rail. It is a good idea to know how to fix a simple ding so you can be back out in the line up and on to the next surf spot in no time! So here is a how to (step-by-step) guide to help you fix your board while on a surf trip.  Just remember to add a ding repair kit to your surf travel check list when packing.

1. Sand the ding and surrounding area in need of repair
2. Clean the area with your towel
3. Cut out a piece of fiberglass cloth a little larger than your ding
4. Mix the resin and setting agent according to the instructions
5. Fill the crack or hole with resin/filler
6. Apply the first sheet of Fiberglass cloth over the ding
7. Put a layer of resin over the fiberglass cloth
8. Repeat the process until the ding is all but gone
9. Make sure you cover the entire ding area in resin
10. Allow to set for at least 3 hours in sunlight, or up to 8 hours overnight
11. Once resin has completely set (hard), use a fine sandpaper to sand the repair down… and you will be good to paddle out!

* All of the above items should be included in your standard ding repair kit.  If you don’t have a ding repair kit try using a sticker or duct tape for a quick fix until you get back to your local surf shop.