About Us

How Drapela Works Started

            When I was 16 years old, I made a table for the local county fair. The table ended up doing very well in the competition and even another competition and the rest is history. I fell in love with working with wood and becoming a wood entrepreneur. Over the years, we have had many successes and failures, MANY MANY FAILURES, but that is how we learn and grow. From starting in my parent’s horse barn to building the shop we have today. Drapela Works has been run by me from when I started in high school throughout my college years and now into my 20’s.

             With all these changes our values have always remained constant. The values and principles of doing things right the first time, making a high-quality product. Never lie, cheat, steal or tolerate those who do, and use American made products and materials. These principles have guided our company and will continue to guide our company.  

            We hope our products impress you not only with our craftsmanship, but the quality of materials it is made from. Every Product starts as a raw board and leaves the shop a finished product. We look to continue living the American Dream by making American Made products from scratch.  

About the Owner: Ryan Drapela

            Entrepreneur from an early age. Ever since I can remember I have always tried to improve upon or create something. Whether it be making and trying to sell little wooden skateboards in the 3rd grade to making and selling duct tape wallets in middle school or even selling candy to help pay for high school lunches. I have always been looking for something to fill the need of others and myself. I have always been the wild one with crazy ideas and high energy! To me that is the only way to live! I am a recent college graduate of Texas A&M University. With the help of my family and friends, I was able to run this business while attending college, to help pay for college tuition.  I think anyone can do anything they want in life as long as they have a burning desire to do so and they are persistent about doing it. One of the best ways to learn is from failures because if it’s too easy it’s not worth it! I also love good food and love to cook! I can eat BBQ everyday of the week for breakfast, lunch and dinner and still go to bed full and with a smile! Hope ya’ll have a Great Day and best wishes :) 

“It’s not because you got to. It’s because you get to.” - Ryan Drapela