What is a DIY Engineer?

We are excited to debut our new exhibition category, The DIY Engineer. Since this is a brand new applicant category for CLC, we have put together the following DIY-Engineer specific FAQ.

 A DIY Engineer is someone who makes electronic or mechanical items for fun or profit. Affordable access to electronic components and mechanical parts has helped increased its popularity. How-to guides can be found easily on YouTube, in brick and mortar bookstores and on popular TV shows.
Handcrafting isn’t just for stay at home Moms. Millions of people all over the world are rediscovering the personal satisfaction attained through making something with one’s own two hands.

Much like contemporary crafting, DIY Engineers are fond of taking something old and breathing new life into it. With just a little bit of patience and a good eye for outdated electronics, DIY engineers can turn an old electronic children’s toys into an electronic instrument. Circuit bending discarded technology and turning it into something new is just one example is this vast category. Other topical examples include:

• Robotics: Robot Battles, Robot Building, Etc.

• Bicycle Building: Bike Frames, LED Lighting Solutions, Tire/Wheel Technology, Etc.

• Green Technology: Alternative Energy Ideas, Solar Powered Devices, Water Powered —-Devices, Cleaning Without Chemicals, Etc.

• Computer Programing: DIY Gaming, Music Programing, 3D Printers, Homemade Software, Etc.

• Student Science Projects:  display your school biology project or invention

• Toys: Original Board Games, Conceptual Games, LED Toys, Rockets, Etc.

• Food Production: Organic Gardening Solutions, Grow Your Own Devices, Composting Devices, Homemade Fertilizer, Etc.

• LED Optics: Light Show Devices, Illuminated Nighttime Apparel, Light Sculpture, Etc.

• Tinkering: Let’s your mind go crazy! Get creative! Think of a problem you have encountered and dream up a DIY solution. You don’t have to be a science and technology expert to be a DIY Engineer.

Example: Lab Coat Robot Made by Kansas City’s Hackerspace

Here at Craft Lake City, we dream of a handmade world where every item is unique and wonderful.

This new category challenges the traditional definition of craft by merging it with the science and technology realm.

Anyone can participate in this new section as long as they have a desire to create hybrid craft projects that can be exhibited or sold to the public at Craft Lake City. In order to participate, apply online and submit a digital application.

 The goal of Craft Lake City is to bring like-minded individuals together for a day of DIY exhibition that will build awareness of like-minded nonprofits, micro businesses and local artisans. All accepted exhibitors are welcome to sell their wares. The DIY Engineer category is no different, in reality, than our traditional crafting categories. We encourage you to build or design items that you can both exhibit and sell. It is our hope that by showcasing small business owners and artisans who engage in the DIY ethics, we will not only create an environment that fosters supporting local through direct buying from these gifted men and women, but also inspire the community to get involved in their own DIY creations.

If I have a project I wish to exhibit but it is more for the entertainment of others than the explicit selling of items, am I still able to apply?

Please do! Every year Craft Lake City brings together the best in local food and music to help enhance the overall experience of our festival. If you have a project that you think will fit into the festival please do not hesitate to contact us.

I am still unsure if my items or interests can be classified as DIY Engineering in nature. Is there any contact information that you could give me to ask follow up questions?

Craft Lake City is happy to answer any questions or further inquiries related to our new category. Feel free to contact us at: info@craftlakecity.com