'Creating something meaningful': Alberta artist creates unique cribbage boards

Neil Enock has been building unique, three-dimensional cribbage boards for decades, but says the popularity of the heirloom-quality gifts have surged in recent years.

Neil Enock describes himself with a single word: storyteller.

“I write books, I tell stories in wood, I work in film. Storyteller is my favorite title.” he said.

For nearly two decades, Enock has been crafting intricate cribbage boards that marry nostalgia with artistry.

His journey began in an unexpected place: a ride-on railway at Airdrie’s Iron Horse Park.

“My son was learning to add, and I thought a railroad cribbage board would be a great way to help,” he said.

“I made a model in foam core first, then asked my CNC contractor to make it. After waiting over a year, I bought the machine, learned how to program it, and made my own.”

This hands-on approach allows him to craft pieces that reflect his passion and precision.

The boards themselves are a study in artistry. Enock opts for a three-dimensional design to spark imagination.

“Some say, ‘Why not carve smooth hills?’” he asked. “I think leaving some of that for the imagination gives it life. The contouring supplies the framework; the rest is up to you.”

Railroad themes remain his most popular designs, blending his love for model railroading with his woodworking skills.

“Model railroading requires you to be an artist, designer, and problem-solver,“ said Enock.

“That background helped me combine different technologies into something people enjoy.”

Viral videos

His business took a dramatic turn in 2023 when videos of his work went viral on social media.

“In May (2023), my TikTok video about a grain elevator board reached 964,000 views,” Enock said. “Another video showcasing an arena board hit 1.8 million.”

The exposure transformed his hobby into a thriving business.

“I sold more boards last summer than in the previous five years combined,” he said. “It’s been wonderful to connect with people who share stories about their loved ones or request custom engravings.”

Enock’s boards often carry personal meaning, from wedding gifts to memorial tributes.

“One of the most special projects I did was for a retiring U.S. Navy submarine captain,” he said. “I made a set with four accompanying coasters.

"Each coaster bore the logo of a submarine he commanded. It’s moments like that which make it all worthwhile.”

Despite his current success, Enock continues stretching his talents into other fields.

“Life is too short to focus on one thing,” he said, referencing his forays into writing, film and even acting. He hopes one day to bring his book, Doc Christmas, to the screen.

“It’s a story about rediscovering the magic of Christmas and trains,” he said. “I think it would make a fantastic movie.”

For now, Enock is focused on expanding his cribbage board repertoire and continuing to craft heirloom-quality pieces.

“These boards aren’t throwaway gifts,” he said. “They’re meant to last, to tell a story, and to be cherished.

“That’s what I love most,” he added. “Creating something meaningful.”

As his boards make their way to homes around the world, from Winnipeg to Australia, Enock’s storytelling spirit remains at the heart of everything he does.

“It’s not just about cribbage or trains,” he said. “It’s about creating connections. That’s what makes it all so rewarding.”

Visit Enock’s website here: cribscapes.com.