When you think of the term ‘DIY’ your mind might quickly flip to home repairs and renovations, or it being used as a substitute term for something a little rough around the edges.

However, the Maker Movement is taking ‘do-it-yourself’ to a whole new stratosphere, in the process revitalising traditions and creating new ones all across the world.

So, what exactly is the Maker Movement, and why should we care about it?

Defining the Maker Movement

Makers, DIYers, artisans, crafters, creators – they all fall into the arc of the Maker Movement.

People have been emboldened and encouraged to turn their hand to making their own creations, rather rely on the mass-produced, mass-marketed products that are pushed upon us on a daily basis.

The movement could even open up career opportunities with a focus on developing future-proofed skills a crucial facet in allowing makers to become more self-sufficient.

Examples of the Maker Movement

• Technology: The rise of devices like the Raspberry Pi has facilitated a boom in interest in computing and coding – two sectors that absolutely underpin our modern existence. With our lives moving increasingly into digital realms, taking a self-starting approach to acquiring these skills could help shape future society.
• Web design: Another crucial component of modern life is the platforms we use to go about our daily business. Banking, shopping, working – these have all moved into digital spaces at lightning speed. Much like coding, self-taught web design often leads to the innovations that push new inventions and ways of working.
• Jewellery/clothing manufacture: With the rise in platforms such as Etsy and Pinterest, independent creators now have an outlet for their creativity rather than coming up against glass ceilings and ideas by committee. Now you can connect with likeminded folk to develop your own niche.

Why is the Maker Movement so important?

The Maker Movement isn’t just about preserving the old, it has also played a huge role in developing new ideas, techniques and products.

By building on lessons from the past, people have the chance to be innovative. A classic example of this is how new technologies like 3D printing and electronic design can be combined to make products that were previously expensive at a much cheaper rate, using newfound materials in the process.

This might make items accessible to more corners of society and even bring people together in the process. The Maker Movement is here to stay and we’re mighty glad about it!