The popularity continues to grow of DIY (Do It Yourself) and maker movement websites, Pinterest boards and other online content related to making your food, furniture, clothes, gifts and much, much more. I follow DIY: MAKE, DESIGN, RECYCLE UAE – a Facebook group for neat ideas about recycling unwanted materials into clever household items, gifts, jewelry and much more.
There is an empowering feeling when you make something yourself and want to show it off and share it with your friends. Many tinkerers and crafters have turned their hobby into a successful business.
You too can let your imagination run wild and create an original piece of signature jewelry, design a personalized t-shirt or a unique gift.
We are so lucky to have our own TECHSHOP (https://www.techshop.ae/) in Abu Dhabi at Al Zeina, Al Raha Beach area, amidst the restaurants and shops. Techshop is an initiative by the Abu Dhabi Technology Development committee that aims to be “a playground for creativity”. This is how they describe what they do: “Part fabrication and prototyping studio, part hackerspace and part learning center, TechShop provides access to a wide range of professional equipment and software. We offer comprehensive instruction and expert staff to ensure you have a safe, meaningful and rewarding experience.”
Get to learn about Mark Hatch, the founder and CEO of Techshop, and about the worldwide network of creative spaces for tinkerers to realize their innovative dreams.
If you are a true maker you must adhere to the Maker Manifesto which you can read about in The Maker Movement Manifesto, a book about the background of Maker Movement and Maker Spaces which started popping up all over the world.
Many libraries, schools and other public places feature Maker Spaces to foster the idea of creating/making and not always consuming what you need.
Join and start making your creative ideas a reality!