PRESQUE ISLE, Maine (WAGM) – Transitioning from winter croquet balls to a creative repurposing of golf balls, Tom Cote has found a unique outlet for his artistry. This captivating story showcases Cote’s unorthodox methods and imaginative products.
When is a golf ball not just a golf ball? For Tom Cote, it transforms into an intricately crafted keychain or a festive Christmas ornament. By carefully trimming away parts of the cover and tapping into his artistic skill, Cote breathes new life into these seemingly mundane items.
“The idea struck me after I accidentally hit a golf ball with my lawnmower, which caused the cover to tear. I realized I could carve it, so I took that damaged ball and experimented with it. Initially, I carved everything by hand, but I soon discovered that some golf balls are surprisingly tough. To improve my process and avoid cutting my fingers, I created a jig and now use a Dremel tool for cutting the outer layer,” explained Cote enthusiastically.
Having only taken up golf last year, Cote has gained an unexpected expertise about golf balls that most casual players might miss. He candidly shared a memorable encounter: “The worst was a balata ball; cracking it open released a sticky substance that sprayed everywhere—think Coca-Cola! Luckily, I was outside at the time. I had to return 11 more balls to the pro shop afterward, and when the attendant asked why, I explained what happened. He chuckled and said, ‘Oh, you must want a two-piece ball!’”
Cote’s creativity extends beyond keychains and ornaments. “I actually sold one to a lady who wanted it as a necklace. I thought it might be a bit heavy, but that’s what she desired,” he remarked with a sense of pride.
When people first encounter Cote’s creations, their reactions are often of surprise. “Initially, they do a double take. When I explain that it’s actually a repurposed golf ball, their eyes widen with intrigue. Many didn’t realize golf balls could be crafted in such a way. I tell them the magic lies in removing the exterior,” he explained, reflecting on the astonishment of his audience.
The talented artist from Limestone also ingeniously utilizes old club heads, transforming them into charming wooden birds glued to the heads. Nothing goes to waste in Cote’s workshop; he repurposes club shafts into sturdy walking sticks. He proudly mentioned, “I now have a cellar brimming with old irons that I’ve started to use as hat and coat racks.” His resourcefulness even led him to creatively use an old golf bag after a student posed a challenge. “He dared me to create something from that old golf bag, and when he returned for lessons the next week, I had it adorned with vibrant plants and ivy. He was taken aback and muttered, ‘Shoulda known,’” Cote recalled with a laugh.
With his boundless creativity, it’s difficult to predict what Cote will devise next. However, one thing is certain: his future projects will be remarkably imaginative and distinct.
What inspired Tom Cote to start repurposing golf balls into creative crafts?
**Interview with Tom Cote: Creative Rebirth of Golf Balls**
**Editor:** Today, we’re joined by Tom Cote from Presque Isle, Maine, who has turned a rather unconventional mishap into a thriving artistic endeavor by repurposing golf balls into creative crafts. Tom, welcome!
**Tom Cote:** Thank you! I’m excited to share my journey with you.
**Editor:** So, let’s start at the beginning. You mentioned that the idea to repurpose golf balls came after an unfortunate incident with your lawnmower. Can you tell us what happened?
**Tom Cote:** Absolutely! I was mowing my lawn when I accidentally hit a golf ball, and the cover tore off. Instead of just tossing it aside, I thought, “What if I could carve it?” That moment sparked my creativity, and I decided to experiment with it.
**Editor:** That’s such an interesting origin story! How did you develop your techniques from that initial idea?
**Tom Cote:** Initially, I was doing everything by hand, which was quite challenging since some golf balls are surprisingly tough. To make my process safer and more efficient, I built a jig and started using a Dremel tool. It made a world of difference and allowed me to focus on the artistic side rather than fighting with the material.
**Editor:** It sounds like you’re really honing your craft! What kinds of creations have you made from the golf balls?
**Tom Cote:** I’ve made a variety of items—everything from intricate keychains to festive Christmas ornaments. Each piece is unique because I work with the natural contours and design of the ball. I love taking something that’s usually discarded and turning it into something beautiful.
**Editor:** That’s fantastic! I understand that you only took up golf last year. Has this new hobby influenced your art?
**Tom Cote:** Definitely! It’s funny because my perspective on golf balls has completely changed. I’ve learned a lot, like the different materials used in various types of golf balls. For example, I had a memorable experience with a balata ball; when I cut it open, it sprayed a sticky substance that reminded me of soda! It was messy, but it also taught me a lot about the design and construction of these balls.
**Editor:** It must be fascinating to blend your newfound knowledge of golf with your artistry. What’s next for you and your creative projects?
**Tom Cote:** I’m planning to expand my craft by exploring new designs and maybe even workshops to teach others how to do it. There’s so much potential in these overlooked items, and I want to inspire others to see what they can create from something as simple as a golf ball.
**Editor:** That’s inspiring, Tom! Thank you for sharing your captivating story with us today. We look forward to seeing more of your creative works!
**Tom Cote:** Thank you for having me! I appreciate the opportunity to share my passion.
