We met Boris of B.Bugarski Surfboards from Galicia, Spain many years ago at the start of our fin making journey. Gonzalo and Boris instantly clicked in their first conversation together, and it was clear straight away that he also appreciates the finer details, processes and complexities involved in shaping boards and/or fins.
We sent Boris our Shaper Stories questions to find out a bit more about him and his boards...
Tell us where you’re from and where you’re based.
I'm born in the former Yugoslavia, and currently I live in Galicia - near Sanxenxo/Portonovo which is where I build my boards.
What inspired your logo/brand name?
My brand name is my surname.
Tell us a bit about how, when and why you got into shaping.
I started to get interested in the world of shaping right at the beginning, when I started surfing. I was always curious to know more about the different feelings and sensations each board produced, the shapes, and why we all prefer something different - what each different element brings to the board and how it effects performance. I also started repairing boards as at that time repairs were expensive and it was hard to find someone who could do it. So one thing led to another...!
What kind of boards do you mostly shape?
I mostly shape retro fish/twins.
What’s your preferred fin set up to a) shape and b) surf?
I love all set ups to be honest, but if I had to choose, it'd be a twin fin.
Best tip for the budding shaper?
My advice for a new shaper would be don't give up, work hard, and above all enjoy the process. And if possible, bring something new or try and better something if you can.
What’s been the most memorable board you’ve ever shaped & why?
That's a difficult decision...but I'd go for a twin fin I made as a present for a very good friend of mine. It was wood-effect, with an illustration, wooden fins and thermochromic resin (which changes colour depending on the ambient temperature or with the sun). Magic and fun!
What's the bonus of using Macho Fins in your boards?
Quality assured!
Thanks Boris! And you can check out B.Bugarski Surfboards on their Facebook and Instagram.
This interview has been translated from Spanish.