I started shaping my first board in 1989, it was my striped down H.I.C Hans Hedeman model. It became so de-laminated that it was making popping sounds across the deck from rail to rail. Fortunately the blank wasn’t buckled and was thick enough to yield another shape. After reshaping and glassing and setting new fins, the board that came out okay. I had hard rails and the fins whistled but I didnt care! From that point on, all i wanted to do was learn more about the process. I also fixed boards at the local shop for awhile and got to know my way around glassing a little. Around the same time I started getting into Art, Graphic Design and more specific 3D art. This eventually became my highest priority and to find work at I moved from North Carolina to Carlsbad, Ca in 1994. Once out west, I hung out with Chuck Hundley from Clubber surfboards. Most of my friends were riding his boards and I would just try and soak up any knowledge he would offer. He was a very fast shaper and I was impressed how he could shape a few board before most people woke up. Along the way I met other shapers including Brian Worsham, Rusty Whitlock, Barry Snyder, Bill Johnson, Jeff Batista, Landen Young, Dan O’Hara, Craig at Enso, Paul Burke, Rick Hamon. Rusty Whitlock let me shape in his bay for a few years at night. He also offered a few tips which I still incorporate. Barry Snyder helped me understand tucking the bottom rail. Rick Hamon helped me understand the importance of the right tool and Dan helped me dial in and fine tune the last 10 to 20 percent of the process. John Silver and Gabe _________ also have helped with tuning along the way… Thanks guys! After showing to shops for the first time in 2013, I was stoked to hear the feedback and I now am and will be in a few select shops including Onshore Surf Shop, Surf City, NC. Secret Spot Surf Shop, Nags Head, NC. Aussie Island Surf Shop, Wilmington, NC. Aussie Island Surf Shop, Wrightsville Beach, NC. Ocean Surf Shop, Folly Beach, SC. Progression Surf Shop, Encinitas, Ca. Surf Ride Surf Shop, Solana Beach, Ca.
When I’m not Shaping I like to… Surf! And spend time with the family and travel. Living in North County San Diego is cool because there are usually waves somewhere. I wish it got bigger and more hollow more often but there are some good spots if you’re willing to drive!
