Rising Stars: Meet Tyler Layman of LEE’S SUMMIT

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Layman.

Hi Tyler, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in rural southern Missouri, and through various experiences, I gained an appreciation for making, fixing, and building things. About 7 years ago (2015), I was going through a pretty tough stretch in my personal life. I was a newly single father and needed a way to relieve stress and find my identity again. I also wanted to refurnish my home but not a lot of extra income. At night, after my daughter was in bed, I would go to the garage and make a coffee table, headboard, and picture frames until I replaced most of my furniture. Friends started asking for custom pieces and eventually encouraged me to start posting online. Along the way, I met my wife, who has helped and encouraged me to expand my business through leads services and believes I can build anything she dreams up, including several pieces for our wedding.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I haven’t had any formal training in woodworking or construction. I learned everything I know through different jobs or trial and error. In the beginning, there were a lot of discarded pieces and starting over to correct mistakes. Time has been another major obstacle. The dream is for woodworking to be my main source of income, but until then, I still work a day job and spend evenings and weekends in the shop.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I enjoy new challenges that allow me to learn new techniques and skills. My most common project has been built-in bookshelves and storage cabinets. My favorite projects are the smaller items that allow more creativity, cutting boards, wooden vases, and Christmas ornaments on my lathe. I believe what sets me apart from most is that everything I make is completely custom and built to order. I work closely with my customers to find the balance between what they want and what will fit and function best in their space. Each of my smaller pieces is meant for display as well as use. I hope they are viewed as art as much as for their function.

What was you like growing up?
My father is a retired diesel mechanic, and my mother ran the school kitchen. My 2 younger brothers and I spent a large chunk of our childhood outside, playing in the woods, hunting, and fishing. My parents taught us to be independent and self-reliant. I was also a Boy Scout. On the path to earning my Eagle Scout, I had the opportunity to help with several construction projects for community service. Those projects gave me the familiarity and confidence to pick up tools and start building.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Tl_woodworking
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TLWOODWORK

Image Credits
Head shot, cake utensils, gift box – Katrina Harris Wild Tribe Photography. All other photos were taken by me.