[beznet]

Exactly, you can do a lot of amazing things with less money than certain things sell for. Most people spend that premium because the time required to build X for cheaper isn't worth it in the long run. (unless, like you said, its apart of someones interest or hobby)

[jedberg]

When I was in college, I had more time than money, so it made sense to do these DIY things. Now that I have kids and a good income, I have more money than time, so I tend towards buying solutions to easily solvable problems. It sometimes makes me sad that I don't get to tinker, but I'd rather spend time with the kids.

Hopefully as they get older, we can combine spending time together and tinkering!