Do it yourself, or more commonly DIY, refers to those who create or repair things without consulting the help of paid professionals. DIYers are keen on crafts, recycling old materials, home repair, and manipulating materials with their own hands to address their needs rather than hiring someone else to do the job. This may include car repair, home renovations, sewing and alterations, crafts, ceramics, independent publications, electronics, and anything else that relates to material needs.

DIY can also take on a broader meaning in the context of media, music and publishing; here, groups of people pool their resources to organize a creative social network that effectuates independent change, rather than relying on traditional sources or organizations to direct them.

This year, the emphasis on DIY is even greater as families struggle to stay afloat amid the global economic downturn. If shopping and fashion is your weakness, consider learning how to sew or knit. If you love food and cooking, why not try canning or pickling this year? The possibilities are endless and doing it yourself can be both rewarding and fun.

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