About

Hi, I’m Paul.

By day, I’m a software engineer — but recently I discovered something unexpected: making surfboards is deeply therapeutic. It’s become a passion project, a way to connect with the surf culture I admire, and something I’m genuinely excited to share.

There’s something about working with your hands, coaxing a piece of wood into a shape that carries the whole vibe of the surf lifestyle, that just clicks. Each board starts as a rough cut of wood and ends up as something special folks can hang on their wall or to add a little character out front. They also make great gifts or souvenirs for visitors to the area, and I love that part of it too.

The Boards

Every hand-crafted Surfing Gnome board is cut from cedar planks or pine, then shaped and painted by hand. No two are ever exactly alike — the wood grain alone sees to that.

• Optional vinyl applications let me add custom silhouettes, text, and artwork
• Multiple coats of polyurethane are applied to the front and back for protection and a clean finish
• Outdoor boards include UV protection to stand up to the Carolina sun

Beyond wall art, I’ve customized boards as house address signs, key hooks, bottle openers, inspirational quotes, and more — new ideas come up all the time!

Find Us in Wilmington

I currently offer boards in my artist booth at The Village on Carolina Beach Road. Stop by and see them in person!

Looking for something specific? Just ask. I’m always happy to do custom work. Use the online order form to get in touch, or find me on Facebook or Instagram at @surfinggnome.

We’re lucky to live and work here in Wilmington, North Carolina, where the surf lifestyle isn’t just an aesthetic — it’s the way people actually live. That spirit goes into every board.

Mahalo!