Local couple etches a new path with KnotHeads Custom Engraving

Local husband-and-wife duo Jaime and Robert Ford used some downtime during the pandemic to launch KnotHeads Custom Engraving. Fast-forward three years, and they’ve grown the operation drastically, adding even more custom options.

It all began in 2020 when Jaime was an athletic trainer at a local college and was laid off due to the uncertainty of the pandemic and intercollegiate athletics. She also officiated local sports, and even though she could increase her officiating availability, she still wanted more ways to fill her time.

Robert, a retired firefighter, had been investigating laser businesses during the pandemic. After more research, the two decided to purchase a laser from a Chattanooga-based company.

“The biggest learning curve was the graphic design,” Jaime said. “I had a firm understanding of basic software but not much of a design background. We caught on quickly and now have top-of-the-line design software that interfaces seamlessly with the laser.”

KnotHeads has become a staple at the Owensboro Regional Farmer’s Market, offering local hand-crafted specialty items ranging from magnets and tumblers to high-quality planter boxes and other home and garden items.

“We’ve expanded a lot as a business,” Jaime said. “We’re using our laser to enhance several items, and more and more people are asking us to do different projects for them.”

Jaime echoed the sentiments of other Farmer’s Market vendors, describing the group as supportive and helpful. She also cited the community’s continued support as instrumental to their success.

“We have gotten a lot of exposure through the market–everyone loves to help each other out,” she said. “All of the vendors work so hard, and people in Owensboro appreciate local, home-grown, handcrafted, and home-produced items. Not everything we make is for everyone, but the market always offers exposure.”

The Fords begin building up their inventory well ahead of an appearance at the market or another event. They offer engraving services on a wide array of materials and always strive to be environmentally conscious.

“We offer a low price point on magnets, ornaments, key chains, and other things,” she said. “We also have items at the Bluegrass Music Museum and Hall of Fame, Bill Monroe’s homeplace, and Windy Hollow Biscuit House as a small memento for visitors.”

KnotHeads is also a regular at ROMP, Kraftucky, and Comicon. They recently purchased a trailer and look forward to venturing to other events and festivals. Beyond that, they offer custom orders, which Jaime said accounts for roughly 15% of their business.

Originally published in Owensboro Times
Sponsored by Independence Bank
John Kirkpatrick
July 20, 2024