Economy Bolsters Make It Yourself Trend

Economy Bolsters Make It Yourself Trend

Sustainability concerns and gloomy economic forecasts have combined to bolster a new ‘Make-it-Yourself’ (MIY) trend. These trends have contributed to a Wellington-based magazine doubling its circulation and expanding to nationwide distribution after only three issues.
 
Co-editors of World Sweet World (WSW) magazine Hannah Gardiner and Thomas Schickedanz say that they have been delighted, but not surprised, at the popularity of the magazine.
 
“We looked around for a magazine for makers and creative folk, something that was a practical ‘how-to’ guide to enable people to live more sustainably, says Hannah, “and there wasn’t one.”
 
The next issue is due out on 1st December, and launches their latest concept to help others live a more sustainable life – ‘Badges for a World that Acts on Climate Change’ – in collaboration with the Hikurangi Foundation.
 
“We got to thinking; in 2009, what are the skills that we need to encourage in ourselves?” says Hannah. “We may need some new skills and innovations to help us cut emissions, and create a better way of life. Celebrating making changes together could help. Do any of the attributes of old Brownie-type badges help or do we need to come up with some new ones for ourselves?”
 
The magazine is calling for submissions on badge ideas. Readers then design and handmake the successfully nominated badges. Upon taking positive climate action, they get one back.
 
Ethical giving for Christmas is also a timely feature appearing in this issue.
 
“It’s not just about craft,” says Hannah, “the serious bit is that we want to provide a fun and friendly way to take action and see it add up. We're making a difference, but doing it together.”
 
Hannah says WSW is the only magazine that asks people for solutions instead of telling them what to do. “Readers provide much of the content, ensuring that the community plays a big part in steering where we are going.”
 

Thomas says this makes it quite different from other publications.

“Sustainability shouldn’t be a guilt trip - it’s a fun trip,” he says. “As people are looking for more sustainable lifestyles, there has been a surge in interest in MIY. Gloomy economic forecasts make this even more relevant, reusing what we have, but giving things a modern, indie spin.”
 
World Sweet World magazine is published quarterly and is available via www.worldsweetworld.com, through major bookstores and other nice stores around the country. See the website for stockists.

World Sweet World Issue four available now. Includes stories on:  

The Transition Town movement, how to make a sofa out of old doors, knit a plastic beach bag from old shopping bags, ethical giving for Christmas, finding the best blackberries and making ginger beer.

Ends

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