Some years ago, if you wanted to install a couple of planter boxes on your deck, or update your kitchen with an island, you might have hired someone to do the job. In today’s economy, we’re all looking to do these jobs ourselves. Even those of us who have never done a DIY project in our lives are now reexamining our skills, as well as our budgets. That kitchen island hasn’t lost its appeal, but the family budget has shrunk. Hey now, maybe I can do it myself! Planter boxes? Well, I can handle a saw and a screwdriver. This new perspective on the part of consumers has nurtured a renewed interest in the DIY stores. As they say, when times get tough, the tough get going. Even though we may find our budgets don’t match our tastes, we start looking for alternative solutions.