Meet The Maker's Team

I began leatherworking in 2001 while serving in the Army. At the time, I was stationed in Hawaii and needed a hobby that would keep me out of the sun. After retiring from the Army in 2014, I launched “Heizer’s Custom Leather” and soon after began selling supplies as Maker’s Leather Supply.

Leatherwork is more than just a craft for me, it’s an activity that heals my mind and calms the soul. When I’m at my workbench, the rest of the world fades away; it’s just me and whatever I feel inspired to create.

My favorite part of working at Maker’s Leather Supply is connecting with other leatherworkers. I love the chance to teach, inspire, and meet so many like-minded folks who share a passion for the craft.

Outside of leatherwork, here’s a fun fact: I’m a big fan of ventriloquist acts and their dummies, and yes, I might even have a couple tucked away in my own closet.

Janie Sue has been part of Maker’s since 2019, bringing her background as a safety coordinator and HR representative into the mix. While she and Aaron owned the business, she managed all the behind-the-scenes details—HR, business operations, and keeping things running smoothly. These days, you’ll find her at all the major shows, keeping the crew in line and Aaron on task (no small job!). With her perfect mix of organization, humor, and cheerleading energy, Janie makes sure the Maker’s spirit shines everywhere she goes.

What started as a simple customer visit nearly 7 years ago somehow turned into a full-blown career in leather (and I’m not even mad about it). I used to stop by Maker’s Leather Supply so often, they finally gave me a job and I never left. I went from helping run the store while Aaron was off at shows, to becoming the Vice President of Operations, and now I’m the General Manager, aka the one who keeps the wheels turning and the leather rolling.

I've been doing leatherwork for just under a decade, which means I have just enough experience to be dangerous. Whether it’s solving shop puzzles, keeping us on track, or testing every new tool “for quality control,” I’m your person. Basically, if it smells like leather and involves caffeine and chaos, I’m probably in the middle of it.

Hi, I’m Tyler! I’ve been with Maker’s Leather Supply for almost three years, keeping things moving smoothly as the Sales and Fulfillment Manager. I’ve been working with leather for five years and love seeing great projects come to life—and helping customers get what they need to make them happen. I also serve as the liaison for the Learn with Illume + Maker’s school program, where I get to help connect students and teachers with the tools and support they need to succeed.

When I’m not at Maker’s, you can usually find me outdoors hunting or fishing, or out on the dance floor country dancing. I’m also a big fan of music; singing and playing guitar are passions of mine, and I never pass up a chance to share a good tune.

Hi, I’m Sherman! I’ve been with Maker’s Leather Supply for almost two years, helping keep orders moving smoothly and making sure customers get what they need as quickly as possible. With about five years of saddle-making experience, I’m always happy to help answer questions and share what I know.

I’m a bit of an old soul with a quiet demeanor, but I try to be polite, helpful, and dependable in whatever I’m doing. Every now and then, my wit sneaks through, but mostly I just enjoy being part of a team that takes care of our customers and each other.

Richard has been part of the Maker’s Leather Supply team for almost three years, keeping things organized and running smoothly in the warehouse. He makes sure that everything is received, tagged and in its place—which is no small task! Along the way, he’s discovered a real passion for leatherwork and has been learning new techniques as he grows in the craft.

Outside of work, Richard is happiest outdoors. He especially loves fishing trips, and with four kids, there’s never a shortage of adventures (or fishing buddies). Whether he’s at the water or spending time with his family, Richard brings the same dedication and good spirit that he shares with us at Maker’s every day.

Connie has been part of the Maker’s Leather Supply team for over seven years, specializing in laser machines and creating the templates our customers rely on. Along with running the lasers, she often lends a hand with packaging, labeling, and clicking out leather—always making sure things run smoothly.
For Connie, Maker’s is more than just a workplace. She loves the supportive team atmosphere and appreciates that it’s a less stressful job that helps her take care of her health.
Outside of work, Connie’s true passion is racing. A lifelong dirt track fan, she grew up surrounded by uncles and cousins who raced, and proudly cheered on her youngest son when he became the 2009 MX3 Champion. She’ll tell you nothing beats the smell of racing fuel! When she’s not at the track, you’ll likely find her at a domino table, where she reigns as the self-proclaimed “Domino Queen.”

Hi, I’m Dustin! I’ve been with Maker’s Leather Supply for five years, working alongside my mom, Connie, in the laser department. Together, we produce the acrylic templates that have become one of our best-selling items. I’ve spent about two years dabbling in leatherwork myself, and one of my favorite parts of the job is walking in each morning to that unbeatable smell of leather.

Outside of work, you’ll most likely find me at the pool table. I play several times a week and have even won a few competitions—though for me, it’s as much about the fun as it is about the trophies. Whether I’m at work with the lasers or lining up a tricky shot in a match, I enjoy the challenge of always improving.

Hi, I’m Marsha Maler, also known as Aaron and Janie’s daughter. I’ve been part of Makers since around 2017, shortly after graduating high school. My love for creating unique leather art began while watching my dad, Aaron, at work. Over the years, I’ve cherished the connections I’ve made with our incredible community. With over 34,000 followers, many of whom I’ve never met in person, you’ve truly come to feel like family. Outside of Makers, I’m an entrepreneur with multiple businesses, including a hair salon and a coffee trailer.

Merritt is the newest (and youngest!) member of the Maker’s Leather Supply team, joining us in March of 2025. She first discovered leatherwork in 2020 and quickly developed a passion for making tack built to withstand the everyday use of the working cowboy. At Maker’s, her favorite part is the community—learning from fellow makers and getting the chance to introduce new people to the craft she loves.

When she’s not at work, Merritt can usually be found in her personal shop, on the back of a horse, or exploring her creativity through pottery. No matter what she’s working on, she brings curiosity, energy, and a love of craftsmanship to everything she does.