Via The Hartford Courant:

“Do-it-yourself clubs are forming around the country as homeowners try to make improvements on a budget. The clubs provide additional labor and know-how when members tackle big projects.

“Consider it an expertise barter,” says Abby Buford, spokeswoman for the home-improvement store Lowe’s. “For instance, someone may have experience with minor plumbing repair and another may love to paint. It can also be a social venue, giving friends time to be together while assisting with each other’s homes.”

The clubs — generally created by friends or neighbors — vary in how they are organized. Some have strict rules requiring attendance at every get-together. Others operate less formally and may only involve sending an e-mail requesting help with an upcoming job.”