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Our Story
Why I started Layer FabWorks
Layer FabWorks emerged from my desire to develop innovative, affordable solutions for everyday challenges. As a DIY enthusiast, I frequently encounter obstacles in my projects. There are times when no immediate or easy solutions exist. I often found myself asking, "Why isn’t there a better way?" or "Why must this be so complicated? If only I could just achieve this: ..." These are the issues I strive to address.
In 2024, I was introduced to the marvels of additive manufacturing (aka 3D printing). I was always aware of it, but for one reason or another, I didn't explore it further. Maybe it was a lack of understanding, or a belief that 3D printing wasn't capable of producing robust products.
It is my daughter I have to thank. She saw that many kids at school had 3D-printed toys and fidgets. She saw a wide-open market. She knew that kids were willing to pay for these items and that if she sold similar things, she could make enough money to save up for her dream [insert currently relevant thing here]. Sometimes it was an ATV, then an e-bike, and now, who knows. She had already saved enough to purchase an entry-level 3D printer. She played with it, sold some small toys at school, and was making real money.
Well, as the dad who had to do all the legwork to figure out how to operate such a machine, I became intrigued. I started to think about all the things I could design to solve the problems I face every day: needing a spacer for this, adapting this vacuum hose to that accessory, hanging this tool in such a way, and so on. I quickly put into practice the CAD skills I learned in my high school engineering courses. I saw my ideas come to life right before my eyes, nearly out of thin air. Well, sort of.
My daughter's entry-level printer was very slow, she would only let me use it when she wasn't, and it was quite finicky. It was kind of like watching paint dry, then seeing the paint come out patchy and having to add more and more layers until you eventually realize that you need a better paint roller. So that's what we did. After much research, we each got a new, much more refined 3D printer, because I couldn't wait for her to let me use hers to make all my new ideas. I was hooked. That brings us to where I am today: designing, testing and refining products, and selling them to people who face the same problems I do.
I hope the countless hours of designing, prototyping, testing, and manufacturing help you solve a problem you face every day. Or, at least, help when your significant other comes up with a great home renovation idea that YOU can accomplish for them. I sincerely appreciate your support and wish you the best and easiest project possible!
Best Regards,
Cory Avelar
Founder, Layer FabWorks
How we make things
Every product starts with an everyday workshop problem: a battery with nowhere to live, a hose that doesn't fit the attachment, dust going everywhere when you drill. We design a part, print a prototype, test it on real tools and keep refining until it fits right. Because we print in-house, that loop is fast. Our Universal Vacuum Hose Adapter went through several versions in a single week before it was ready.
We choose materials for the job. Most mounts, adapters and trays are printed in PETG, which is strong, heat-resistant and impact-tough. The DrillVac Lite is printed in ASA for extra weather, UV and chemical resistance. Flexible parts like crevice tools and soft tips use TPU. Everything is designed and 3D printed in the USA, and orders usually ship within 1–3 business days.
Have an idea?
We also design and print custom functional parts in PLA, PETG or ASA, from a one-off replacement piece to a prototype. Tell us about your project on our Custom Order page and we'll send you a quote.