My children "discovered" YouTube (the popular, free video-sharing Web site) a long time ago, but I've only recently come to use and enjoy it. The exuberant performance of Do Re Mi at a railroad station in Belgium perks everyone up. A Scottish bicyclist's tricks are truly awesome. The Cimorellis' video -- one brother and five sisters singing in glorious harmony -- is a family favorite. And Susan Boyle's singing debut on Britain's Got Talent continues to inspire. It was YouTube's most-watched video in 2009.
YouTube isn't only entertainment. It is an amazing -- and growing -- venue for how-to material. Some favorites from our editors and consultants...
HOME HELP
How to sharpen scissors: From a professional knife/tool/tomahawk sharpener in Texas.
Unclog a toilet: Demonstrated by the authors of the Dare to Repair book series.
Cut men's hair: Super-clear instructions delivered with gentle humor.
Poison ivy self-defense: How to identify it, avoid it and wash off the oil.
FITNESS
Six-pack abs: Six-minute workout on your couch -- from a man who lost 100 pounds in 3 months.
Yoga for beginners: First in a three-part series.
Casting (fishing): From the Texas Parks and Wildlife's Take Me Fishing 101 video series.
Golf swing: Tom Watson reveals his secret.
FUN
Make an origami butterfly: This hobbyist -- a dental student in real life -- has other videos for making origami dragons, boomerangs and more.
Tie a bow tie: South Carolina clothier makes it easy.
COOKING SECRETS
Slice/dice onions like an expert: Oregon chef shows different techniques.
Quick-peel an egg: This unusual method takes only a few seconds and makes no mess.
Quick-peel a banana: It's easiest using the technique that monkeys use.
Carve a turkey: Do it like the butchers do.
Seed a pomegranate: Restaurant trick to separate the seeds without making a big mess.
YouTube is not the only game in town. SpendLessTV.com offers videos on all aspects of saving and spending smarter. Howdini.com and Howcast.com focus on instructional videos. Have fun, and let me know what you like.






Feb 10, 2010 at 6:55 AM Thanks for making it so easy to see the videos! (To get to them, you just click on "How to sharpen scissors" or another topic in italics.)
Feb 27, 2010 at 12:16 PM Try this to see three guys trying to make it is music!!
(CUT and PASTE in youtube)
Ain't she sweet-McCartney&Harrison on ukulele+Ringo(1994)