Matt and Megan Ross of Sully turned an unexpected career change into an entrepreneurship opportunity with the launch of Twisted Tine Design. The couple’s new business operates out of their Sully home and specializes in the custom engraving of anything from stainless steel tumblers to ornaments to puzzles.
Matt’s experience with laser engraving gained traction as a business development manager with his previous employer, a Des Moines-based countertop business. When that business closed in May of 2023, Matt brought home the couple’s laser engraver he had used to personalize customized porcelain charcuterie boards out of leftover countertop material. The laser that lit a spark in Matt’s creative nature is now housed in the couple’s Sully garage where Twisted Tine Design remains busier than ever after coming off a successful inaugural holiday season.
Entrepreneurship and creativity run deep for both Matt and Megan. Matt received a CAD degree from DMACC and went on to pursue a business degree from UNI. Megan is a Hawkeye Community College graduate with a photography degree. Her work has been splashed all over the walls of clients near and far and on social media as she has run a small photography business since graduation. Both Matt and Megan have an eye for detail and strong entrepreneurial spirit that serves them well in the creative maker world.
“The countertop world provided a great experience for Matt to grow and learn small business,” said Megan. “With our combined experience, it has helped us get this business off the ground quickly and settle into our roles nicely.”
The Rosses have operated Twisted Tine Design out of their home since August 2023. Their product list and clientele has expanded by leaps and bounds since the laser’s early days of engraving charcuterie boards. Today, they use the CO2 laser along with a myriad of other tools they have acquired over the years to bring client visions to life. Twisted Tine Design’s portfolio is wide and varied, and the Rosses have further expanded their product line by utilizing various medias.
“The sky is the limit,” said Megan. “I’m sure over time, there will be certain products that gain more traction than others, but for now it’s all about showcasing our capabilities and quality of work.”
Twisted Tine Design’s capabilities, combined with their creativity, eye for detail, and quest to learn create endless potential for the type and scope of projects they are willing to take on. The 2023 holiday season was bountiful for the new business owners. Sports balls, name signs, tumblers, ornaments, puzzles, and even a purse made their way out the door. And the porcelain charcuterie boards that first ignited the business are still a popular choice among clients.
“We were so grateful for the support this holiday season. At one point, Matt was up until 4:30 a.m., finishing up a Christmas project for someone,” said Megan.
Their devotion to Twisted Tine Design’s ever-growing customer base is evident by the time and effort they continually put forth despite having a full load of responsibilities in other capacities. Both Matt and Megan juggle multiple roles in addition to fulfilling engraving orders. Matt works remotely from home during the day for a countertop business in Missouri and focuses on Twisted Tine Design work in the evenings. Megan is a stay-at-home mom to the couple’s three children ages 7, 6, and 1, and also maintains her photography business. The Ross family’s schedule is loaded, but fulfilling, and the couple remains focused on building their newest venture and pulling the long hours as needed to create the perfect customized products for customers.
Custom laser-engraving work makes up a large percentage of Twisted Tine Design’s orders and the couple looks to expand to doing even more custom work.
“People tend to see our items we create and want their own version, which we love. Customers have also found things online and bring the ideas to us. We do, however, like to put our own personal touch on any ideas found online,” explained Megan.
Twisted Tine Design’s popularity has taken off in part thanks to the reach of social media, a great advertising tool. Pictures of their work and updates about the business can be viewed on the Twisted Tine Design Facebook page as well as on Instagram (Twisted Tine Design). The Rosses also have an Etsy page (TwistedTineDesign) and website, www.twistedtinedesign.com. Customers who want to see Twisted Tine Design’s work in person or purchase in store can visit La Rose Marie Bakery and Boutique on the square in Sully or Thyme and Grace, a boutique located on the Newton square that specializes in unique gifts and treats crafted by Iowa makers. Twisted Tine Design products are on display and available for purchase in both businesses.
Matt and Megan look forward to expanding Twisted Tine Design’s social media reach and building their portfolio. A goal for 2024 is to increase market size and get Twisted Tine Design products on the shelves of stores in the surrounding communities.
Anyone interested in learning more or inquiring about a custom project is encouraged to reach out to Matt and Megan via email at hello@twistedtine design or send a message via social media. The Rosses look forward to putting a unique spin on every vision presented to them and making it come to life to serve as a treasured piece for years to come.
