Draw a line down the center of the 8 foot 2x4 on the 4-inch side. The line should be 8 feet long and directly in the center of the lumber.
Draw a mark every 12 inches on the line with the pencil. Make this measurement slightly bigger to about 14 inches if the tails of the board will not fit within 12 inches.
Put the 1-inch drill bit into the hand drill and hold the drill perpendicular to the 2x4. Drill holes at each mark all the way through the 2x4.
Cut the dowels to 2 feet long, or longer for wider boards. Put wood glue in the holes and on the end of the dowel, then insert the dowels into the holes. Allow the glue to dry 24 hours.
Wrap padding over the dowels to protect the surfboards and secure with elastic bands. Any type of padding will do, but some ideas are old quilts or robes, carpet padding, or pipe padding.
Mount the rack to the wall with drywall screws. Mount the rack with wood screws into the wall studs for plaster walls. Use an electronic stud finder to locate the studs.
Screw the screw eyes into the ends of the dowels and tie nylon rope across to the other side. This will protect the surfboards from falling.
Lay carpet, a rug, or a yoga mat under the boards to prevent any damage caused by the floor.