Yellowknife (Oct 06/06) - When you want something done right, do it yourself.

It's a huge part of the DIY (Do-it-Yourself) ethic and part of the purpose behind Do It Up, a "'zine about life in the 'Knife," that launched this week.

But first things first, what exactly is a 'zine?

"It's a homemade magazine," McKay said, which includes poetry, stories, photography and illustrations from a number of Yellowknife contributors.

"It adds to the cultural fabric of our great city," Knowlan said, mustering up her best quotable quote.

For decades, 'zines have filled a strange media niche in communities, exploring music, culture and art outside of the mainstream, printed quickly and cheaply. Usually, they are started by the artists themselves.

Do It Up features contributions from a variety of Yellowknifers, from the known to the anonymous. These include poetry from April Parchoma, stories from Dave Prichard, contributions from the founders themselves and anonymous stories and musings - something the founder said they are always looking for more of. "It's very much a community 'zine," McKay said.

To that end, the launch was a community event, held Tuesday night at Squatterz Books and Curiosities in Old Town. Singer/songwriter Azure DeGrow entertained the crowd with her songs, as people milled about leafing through books and taking advantage of the free food.

Amongst the melee, McKay, Thompson and Knowlan said they came up with the idea in July, just after Folk on the Rocks.

"(It came from) the birthplace of all good ideas: the Black Knight, beers and Krystal's brain," Knowlan said with a laugh.

"It's really great that people are coming out to support us, that people care."

Afterwards, Squatterz owner (and former Yellowknifer arts editor) Daron Letts said 77 copies of the 'zine had been sold during the launch, leaving a few more copies available for sale.

Thompson pointed out a new issue would be forthcoming in the Spring, and interested contributors can contact the magazine at doitupyk@gmail.com.