Lifehacker points to at least two blogs see the current financial troubles as a golden opportunity to improve your do-it-yourself skills. Can’t afford a new car? Just repair your old one! Don’t have money for new furniture? Build some out of scrap lumber! Can’t afford a hat? Knit one using cut-up beer cans for decorations (as my grandmother did on many an occasion).

Here’s one sample quote:

We can invest in hobbies that will give back, like electronics, woodworking, and DIY in general. Being able to make, fix, repair, and build might be the most important skills to develop. We really only have each other, and I think we’re all better off when we’re able to be self-reliant when we need to be.