Interview with Lori Mastroni, owner, designer
How did you get involved in this business?
I come from a long line of family artists and craftsmen. I have developed my own unique abilities through the years, one of which is faux painting. After 10 years of faux finishing, I returned to the Faux Institute for more education, which was two years ago, and am now a certified cabinet and furniture refinisher. As I progressed with cabinetry refinishing, I moved onto refinishing other furniture such as dressers, kitchen table sets and end tables.
What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
As well as the art of refurbishing furniture, I am a seamstress. I enjoy making unique items for the home for the holidays and small items for gifts. I try to acquire unique furniture pieces for refinishing, in the thought that many will want them for their own home or office. My ability to create unique and custom home goods allows me to reach out to a range of customers.
What do you like best about your line of work?
I get great satisfaction from taking an old or useless piece of furniture that someone no longer wants and repurposing it into an amazing item. This not only helps the environment but many times there is some history in the item, which makes it very interesting to do the research behind it. My studio also offers customers to bring items of their own in, for me to refurbish. As with my faux finishing, I love taking white walls and creating a piece of art.
What is your business’ biggest challenge?
Twigs and Twine is a new business, so I am sure there will be many challenges ahead. The biggest challenge right now is keeping up with the demand. Many pieces in my studio sell quickly, so I have to be ready to replace them with new items for purchase as soon as possible.
Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
I am a native of Colorado, I am a graduate of Lakewood High School, so I have many great memories of this area. I love the Rocky Mountains — skiing, biking and hiking right outside our back door. I feel we are blessed to live in such a beautiful state.
Business: Twigs and Twine
Address: 445 S. Saulsbury St., Suite F, Lakewood
Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
Founded: 2013
Contact: 303-550-7569,
Employees: 1
To suggest a business for us to profile, e-mail sshultz@denverpost.com.
