# Break down the DIY process for a total newbie? Clueless where to start

**URL:** https://foil.zone/t/break-down-the-diy-process-for-a-total-newbie-clueless-where-to-start/15470
**Category:** Builds
**Created:** [April 2, 2022, 7:50pm UTC](https://foil.zone/t/break-down-the-diy-process-for-a-total-newbie-clueless-where-to-start/15470 "2022-04-02T19:50:03Z")
**Posts on this page:** 1
**Showing post:** 10

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### Author: ![Foliengriller](https://foil.zone/letter_avatar_proxy/v4/letter/f/9d8465/32.png) [@Foliengriller](https://foil.zone/u/Foliengriller)
#### Post date: [April 6, 2022, 11:21am UTC](https://foil.zone/t/break-down-the-diy-process-for-a-total-newbie-clueless-where-to-start/15470/10 "2022-04-06T11:21:55Z")

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Hi, good luck; I did the same thing and it certainly grows on you.  
Some items to consider to avoid frustration:

1. Your board needs to be thick enough to have space for battery, watertight cover and still remain enough rigidity in this area. Either cut down an old windsurfer (I did for my first two boards) or get a pre-shaped blank and laminate yourself - It is a bit more work and the learning curve needs to be steeper but both is doable and not MUCH more work than modifying…
2. High-Strength mast mount & watertight enclosure are the biggest challenges here - Think about those (read, read, read) before starting.
3. Don’t make the board too long - this only helps during the first two hours of learning and limits your fun after that. 1,40 - 1,60m length is a good compromise.
4. Don’t underestimate the prop: The Flipsky prop is utter crap and might not bring you up on foil…; there are Props available here and on Thinkercad that are much better & easy to print in PLA.
5. Make sure you use the right firmware on the VESC (2.06 is a good choice) - simply flashing might destroy VESC or/and motor.
6. Waterproof the remote before using. Most available remotes are not waterproof even if they claim to be.
7. Don’t worry about the propulsion too much: Assembly of the Flipsky 65161 to the mast is pretty straight forward and can be done in a couple of hours. The board & battery will take up most of your time.
8. Small things like Thottle Expo can matter a lot because you will modulate the throttle to keep the board on foil. A bit of negative Expo works for most.

Anything else, ask.

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