Wednesday 28 May 2025

Therapy for the creative soul

Creative thinking usually requires a relatively open mind and some uninterrupted free time. But what if you are bombarded with DIY videos all day?

Heather Fernandes-Colaco | SEPTEMBER 29, 2016, 12:00 AM IST

Photo Credits: pg 1- lead_2

Whether it's because of the savings or just an outlet for creativity, many people are gaining interest in do-it-yourself projects. From repurposing and renovation ideas, trash to treasure, arts and crafts, or simply recycling ordinary items and turning them into extraordinary art.... there are several hundred DIY videos online.

They show up in your facebook feed, piquing your curiosity enough to make you watch them through the end. You end up sharing them and tagging people you think may like them. Other platforms like YouTube and Pinterest also serve as cornucopias of creative ideas and tutorials. It's like being sucked into a maze.

From step-by-step instructions, to the required tools and materials lists, and illustrative examples, these videos have everything to really get your creative juices flowing.

Inspiration catalysts, the DIY videos make every task look extremely simple and easily doable. From window curtains that require no sewing skills, to DIY cases for your precious smartphones, from how to make relaxing bath bombs at a fraction of the price to the many uses of empty plastic bottles and even the bottle caps, there are so many one-of-a-kind projects and genius ideas for the creatively-inclined.

What's more is that these projects will cost you so much less than if you had purchased them. But it's not just that. A recent Google study revealed that 47% of home improvement projects were done because people take pleasure in doing DIY projects. That is basically why we've seen such a rise in demand for media outlets like HGTV, The DIY Network and even aspects of Martha Stewart's brand.

And then there are those who don't consider themselves creative. Or those that watch these videos and save them in the hope of getting around to them someday. All things considered, though, remember that creativity is about self-expression... and feel-good dopamine surges that increase happiness, productivity, and peace of mind. So dive in, get your hands dirty and let the creative juices flow.

I find DIY videos very helpful. You learn something new every time you watch a DIY video. It increases your skills and knowledge and encourages you to create something yourself rather than going out and purchasing it. Off late, I have been into DIY jewellery – necklaces, bracelets, chokers. Now I can customize my accessories as per my needs.

Amira Araujo, St Cruz

I like to learn how to do new stuff so that I can do craft and creative things by myself. I watch a lot of home decor videos, food videos etc, although I am more inclined towards creative, art and craft videos. It's amazing what they show and how easy it all looks. I have made so many things. Paper baskets, rugs, flowers. I have even made key holders from waste wood I got from the carpenter, decorated bottles with wood shavings and created plastic pouches out of bisleri bottles. Friends and others have admired and even bought some of my stuff.

Reonilda Pereira, Margao

Share this