Nick Gibbs carves bespoke replicas of famous and favourite golf holes. Hand-made from English hardwoods and dyed veneers, Fairway Originals are designed to be made as the top of a chest or box or on a decorative plinth, with an engraved plaque.
A life-long woodworker, Nick has been designing and carving the unique pieces for 15 years, as gifts and trophies, or to celebrate a hole-in-one, handsome victory or a notable event.
“Golfers love them as a memory of their favourite hole or course, a regular round, or a moment they never want to forget,” says Nick Gibbs. “A flag can be positioned at the appropriate point, and minuscule balls added to show successful shots. Some people ask for the tiny white balls to mark their rivals’ mistakes, in the rough, in a bunker or even in the water.”
Some of the world’s most famous holes have been recreated as bespoke commissions, including of course the Road Hole at St Andrews, the Postage Stamp at Troon, and Augusta’s 12th, the Golden Bell.
Recently Nick was asked to produce the leaving present for the Royal & Ancient’s Chief Executive, Peter Dawson, recreating the shared greens of the 11th and 7th holes. The piece had a drawer, tray and secret compartment.
“Obviously our carvings make excellent corporate gifts,” continues Nick, “and trophies or tributes for clubs.”
The works of art are made in Cirencester, at the heart of the Cotswolds, and measure from 8-15in (20 – 38mm) long, depending on the length of the hole. Much of the timber used is from local woodlands, and in many cases from trees felled close to Nick’s workshop. Many incorporate English oak, and boxwood for the bunkers and other species for the trees. They are carved to show slopes and swales, and even the stripes of mown grass.
Prices start at about £250, depending on the contours and features of the hole and the style of the design. Each one usually takes about four weeks to be made and delivered. To contact Nick Gibbs nick@nickgibbs.com.
Fairway Originals www.fairwayoriginals.co.uk