As a professional seamstress who focuses on purely home decorating sewing, I have become self-taught in light upholstery (chair cushions, boxed window seats, slipcovers, etc.).  I've mastered many techniques because I am devoted to my career and am a perfectionist (with a seam-ripper!) I figure I'd offer my opinion if it is not too belated.  I'd like to see all articles mixed together - DIY and professional - as people's knowledge base can change overnight depending on their skills and need for information.  I find that when I earnestly try to educate a DIY, often they would like to do it on their own, but aren't willing to devote a few weeks and $$ to developing a skill to get it right.  They often  realize that what they really need and want is the work of a professional.  No better way to earn a client if they come to that conclusion on their own. Alot of people think what we do is easy, but it's not.  The correct equipment, trial and error, professional training and experience are critical to it not looking "homemade".  Better to have a lot of technical information for the professionals - as it'll be the bulk of the articles - mixed in with the few DIY articles.  Ellen's Sewing for the Home