Common questions
Everything donors and collectors ask most. Not covered here? Reach out through the contact page.
What kinds of boards do you take?
All of them — shortboards, longboards, fish, foamies, SUPs, windsurf boards. Condition doesn't matter: snapped, delaminated, waterlogged, or just retired. Boards too damaged for a full piece are used for parts and materials.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
No. Second Fin is an independent for-profit art studio, not a registered charity, so board donations are not tax-deductible. You'll be asked to acknowledge this on the donation form.
How do drop-off and pickup work?
After you submit the donation form, we reply by email to arrange either a drop-off at the studio or a pickup. We make regular runs along the corridor between the Outer Banks and Wilmington, so pickups usually piggyback on a scheduled trip.
Do you ship finished pieces?
Local pickup is the default for finished art. Shipping is available by quote — surfboard-sized freight varies a lot by destination, so we price it per piece. Ask via the contact form with 'Shipping quote' selected.
How should I care for a piece?
Pieces are sealed for UV and humidity resistance, but treat them like any original art: hang out of direct all-day sun, keep away from sprinklers and salt spray, and dust with a dry soft cloth. No solvents or cleaners.
Can I commission a piece from my own board?
Yes — commissions are open, including turning your own board into a piece that comes back to you. Tell us your idea through the commission form and we'll reply with questions or a quote. There's no instant checkout: every piece is priced individually, and any deposit is arranged after you approve the quote.
Will you tell my board's story?
If you give us permission on the donation form, yes — we love including where a board surfed and who rode it in the finished piece's story. If you'd rather keep it anonymous, just leave the consent box unchecked.
Still curious? Get in touch.