Repairists

Repairists are individuals who diagnose, repair, restore, and maintain objects and systems that have become nonfunctional or degraded. They work across sectors, including consumer electronics, household appliances, bicycles, watches, furniture, and industrial equipment. Repairists may be professional technicians, artisans, or hobbyists who apply practical knowledge to extend the usable life of items, reduce waste, and preserve function.

Core activities include identifying faults, sourcing parts, disassembly and reassembly, component replacement, recalibration, and testing. They use a range of tools such as diagnostic testers, multimeters, soldering irons, screwdrivers, and specialized jigs. Many repairists document procedures, share guides, or contribute to collaborative spaces in repair shops, community repair events, or maker spaces. Safety and adherence to regulatory or manufacturer guidelines are commonly emphasized.

The repairist ethos is closely linked to the circular economy and the right to repair movement, which advocates for easier access to parts, manuals, and repair information to extend product lifespans. The revival of repair culture has been supported by community initiatives like repair cafes, as well as online communities that exchange repair knowledge. Challenges include limited parts availability, warranty constraints, IP restrictions, and economic pressures that favor new production over refurbishment.

Terminology varies; the term repairist is often used alongside repair technician, restorer, refurbisher, or craftsperson. While some repairists focus on mass-market devices, others specialize in high-value items such as vintage watches or antiques. Regardless of setting, repairists aim to restore function while preserving the item’s integrity and history.