Making electronics is one of the most exciting, versatile and profitable hobbies in the 21st century. It combines the ingenuity, resourcefulness and artistic expressions in a myriad of fun and unique ways. The maker movement is an international, multi-generational technological subculture which celebrates the creation of innovative hardware and builds a community around it. Maker parties, workshops and social gatherings are regularly organized, bringing together like-minded enthusiasts who share a common vision on how to make things better. The maker subculture is an open source technology-based subculture which intersects strongly with hardware-oriented aspects of the hacker culture and encourages the production of unique and original devices and tinkering with old ones.

The maker movement is a loosely defined term, which refers to anyone creating something original, as well as sharing it with others. It’s an attitude that inspires and motivates people to think differently about everything. It’s not enough to be a creator. A maker has to be an artist; someone who can see the beauty in making. They have an interest in art, design, computers, photography, fashion, technology, and many other areas, and can generally use their talents in any number of different ways.

The making of things becomes a hobby for many people. The tools they use range from simple instruments like hammers and screwdrivers to complex, professional-looking industrial tools. Maker hardware and gadgets are designed to last, making them very economical and reliable. There are many kinds of makers; some are strictly amateurs who enjoy making things from things found at home or in local stores; others are professional hackers who design and build cutting-edge hardware and tools; and still others are highly proficient manufacturers and retailers of high quality products. No matter how they make their tools, the tools they produce are highly marketable in the third world market.

Maker media and businesses flourish in part because the world always has room for new inventions and new products. Innovation is crucial for the future of any culture and business. As long as there are humans, there will be invention and progress. Innovation is the lifeblood of the maker; just as water keeps a dry land alive, innovation keeps the world alive and well.

Selling in the third world, like making things, requires ingenuity and marketing. In emerging markets, particularly emerging markets like China, where things are often produced for pennies, the market must be marketed aggressively. Otherwise, makers and retailers may find themselves left behind in their home country. The best way to do this is to be accessible, to offer unique and sometimes difficult-to-find products.

If you are thinking of starting a home business, consider making your own hardware or tools. Do it part-time; see what happens. You might surprise yourself. Innovation has always been vital for the human race, and it will continue to be as long as there are humans.