Being entirely self-sufficient in 2011 is essentially impossible, but attaining some measure of sustainability can be both financially advantageous and good for the soul. Just ask Lloyd Kahn.

If you've ever been watching an old film and shouted, "look at that incredible TV set!" it was probably a Brionvega. Especially if the film was Italian.

This one pretty much speaks for itself: it's a sleeping bag that you can wear - and if that isn't all kinds of genius, then frankly, we don't know what is. 

Thomas Thwaites is our latest D.I.Y. hero. The guy built a toaster from scratch by digging up iron ore and smelting it in his microwave.