Are project videos dead? w/Matthias Wandel

For the past few years there’s been a trend in the maker/woodworking space on KZbin. The decline of project videos…people actually making projects. In the broadest sense, this is a simple supply and demand reaction. Fewer and fewer people watch project videos, so fewer and fewer KZbinrs supply them. Just look through the video tab of any woodworking channel and see the ratio of project videos to other content. And compare the views.
Of course there’s a lot more to it than just that, so I’ve invited my friend Matthias Wandel to dive into this topic with me. Both of us have been producing videos for 14 years now and we’ve both been pretty keyed into KZbin culture and how the platform has evolved over the years. There are very few people who understand this platform and its history better than Matthias.

[@RagnBoneBrown]

I prefer making project videos, despite the extra time and effort it takes, and that's what my core audience tells me that they want to see. I do agree though that feedback via comments can be misleading But in general, I think if you're earning a comfortable living making content, you should make the content that you want to make and just enjoy it, rather than chasing numbers and popularity. I think if you're doing what you enjoy, and what interests you, it shows, and Matthias' channel is a great example of that

[@equinoxefr75]

Totally agree :)

[@DiHandley]

Agree!

[@Wordsnwood]

Well said.

[@omaromar-lg3yu]

Phone wooden holder. Please make a fency one

[@FatManBuilds]

I really like your project builds Keith! keep them up

[@JohnHeisz]

Project videos still perform better than they should, given the relative size of the core audience for them. All it takes is the right thumbnail image and title, if the video is actually worth watching. And the trivial content has always outperformed project videos. Except now more guys that used to do project videos are producing "3 Tips For Not Cutting Off Your Fingers" or "They Lied To You About Tung Oil!" videos, so it's more noticeable.

[@Wordsnwood]

Wow, John, those are both great titles.... 😉😉

[@bucknaked31]

Irony in the words “tips” and “not cutting off your fingers” in the same title! 😜

[@jakewitte1788]

Project videos are better than listening to you cry about how taxes = socialism and how Canada is some sort of commie hellscape.

[@Margarinetaylorgrease]

@@jakewitte1788 To be fair he only talks bout that stuff on "I Moan It".

[@Immolate62]

@@jakewitte1788 Canookistan is a third world country, only with less people. Yes, I watch Viva Frei videos.

[@Clairejart]

I don’t know what I would do without project videos, they answer all of my questions and give me new and better methods.

[@morganerickson439]

I totally miss them. That's what got me interested in resuming woodworking as an adult.

[@jennieanddavis]

If you want to catch a fish, ask the fisherman, not the fish! Love hearing both your perspectives. Watching long-time KZbinrs has shown us that telling the story behind the projects is the most sustainable method of content production. It’s a big reason why we shifted towards vlog-style storytelling in the last couple of years.

[@justfellover]

The fishermen aren't biting. They're supposed to like nightcrawlers, aren't they?

[@skh7791]

I love project videos, I only like project videos, and I hate shorts. /s!!!! Honestly I watch for entertainment more than I do ever have before. Projects are great, but learning new things, or watching someone like Matthias engineer something is the best form of KZbin entertainment. Thanks Steve for another great video.

[@TheKipgillett]

TikTok syndrome

[@MemelordSupreme]

Agreed. Shorts have ruined the platform.

[@AGlimpseInside]

Matias hit the nail on the head. Saplings have a hard time growing and a dance forest of Evergreen content. Man that is so true!

[@ScrapwoodCity]

I guess you are right in general. But to me KZbin, Algorithms and all that stuff have become so complex and crazy. So I have no really idea what to do next. As a result I just do what I like even if only a handful of people watch it. And if at some point I have to go back to a day job, no problem. I just don't think there is a point in leaving your boss to work free and then you have a platform as a boss. I am not gonna lose my sleep for KZbin! p.s. You both still are my favorite woodworkers!

[@Tinkery]

That may be why I enjoy watching your channel as much as I do!

[@thomashakonsen3778]

I love project videos. Miss your projectvideos Steve.

[@matthiaswandel]

Steve was predicting a lot of comments like this... I guess your's is the first.

[@loganswafford]

I view woodworking videos like I view cooking videos. Most of the time I'm never going to make the exact project/recipe, but usually I'll pick up one or two ideas that will help me outside of what's being shown in that particular video. I've grown less interested in the traditional 30 minute project video and instead prefer something under 10 minutes. There's only so many times I need to see plywood being broken down, if that makes sense. I like seeing the design phase (why are you making this particular thing, what need is it filling, etc.), a summary of building (including improvisations or what you do when things go wrong), and then the final product. This means I really seek out things that are novel (where I know I can learn something) - Matt's reno series is scratching that itch for me right now.

[@Supermuttt]

As a woodshop teacher I have always appreciated your project videos as well as your free plans, I sent lots of students to you videos, especially when I don't always have the time to show them every step like you can in a video.

[@binnsbrian]

As a teacher you should have proof read your comment. LOL

[@christopherdahle9985]

@@binnsbrian No one expects English teachers to sharpen backsaws, tune bandsaws, fettle block planes, grind chisels, or set jointer blades. While I expect ALL teachers to write apprehensible sentences, Supermutt's typographical errors are trivial and do not impair his meaning in any significant way. However, in the future you might want to take your own advice. Most English teachers agree that "proofread" is a single word.

[@binnsbrian]

@@christopherdahle9985 In the future you might want to take your own advice. Typographical errors are trivial and do not impair the meaning in any significant way. I enjoyed your reply and thank you for it.

[@christopherdahle9985]

@@binnsbrian 👍Now that's the way to finish up on a civil note. I always have to stick up for my fellow shop teachers. Cheers.

[@BrianReichert]

I miss project videos.

[@SpideyScott72]

For my two cents worth, when I began watching you, it was because I was new and the project videos helped me in so many ways in terms of learning. That was primarily because you aimed your focus towards the beginner woodworker and for the most part you still do through your courses and topical videos. I think if your focus remains on the new woodworker, project videos that YOU make and made in the past are immensely helpful to the "newbie" as much as your courses are.

[@omaromar-lg3yu]

Correct

[@David.M.]

I appreciate that there is a catalog of project videos on KZbin. Whenever I need to build something, I know I can find it. And probably find 10 videos on the same project. But if a creator posts a project that I am not interested in or think I will never make it, I don't watch it.

[@DalePoole]

I didn't like the *idea* of shorts at first, but when folks like you and Matthias do them, they are straight to the point, informative and useful. So, in the right hands, a short video is an excellent bit of work. As long as good work is put into interesting videos of any kind, I'm right here to watch them. Thanks for your hard work!

[@juneritchie2498]

I tend to curate my KZbin viewing according to the person, not only the individual projects. I enjoy learning techniques and subtleties that the video may not have been focused on, but the woodworker implements in his or her daily practice. I often apply what I learned in a project video to something completely unrelated. So, Steve and Matthias, I watch your channels, and a few others, to learn approach, planning, problem solving, good practice, encouragement, and a sense of humor. I appreciate the variety, as well. Yes, I check out others, and evaluate them the same way. Some stick, as they say, but most do not. So, I expect to continue watching your stuff and "smashing" 😉 that like button as long as I can.

[@FilamentFriday]

I made 3D printed projects for 1st four years of my channel. Achieved 25k subs and about 3k views on average. I shifted to how to 3D print and tips&tricks and channel grew to over 200k subs within 2 yrs and many videos get over 150k views and more. So I basically agree and mostly quit making project videos.

[@alianbaba9330]

Your videos are ageless. 3D printing is new technology I still watch your old video to learn new tricks

[@mieliejonker]

Hi Steve. I started watching project videos when I tried to build a bed side table, and that is how I found you. The way you explained what you were doing made it easier for me to understand what I had to do. Some of the other people explain nothing and just play music. You made it an educational process as well as entertaining. I later joined the weekend woodworker course. Thanks for that. Good luck with your new path and YES I am looking forward to the next project video.

[@robbiterry38]

i have been woodworking for 40 years, love it. still love watching project videos. you can always learn from others.i think anyone that is a true woodworker is still watching project videos. i have gotten a lot of ideals from watching,

[@monstruoperro]

I love any type of content that you or Matthias make. I learn a lot from both of you.

[@Strong-man]

As the format matured, I’ve started choosing which videos to watch based on more of the perceived relationship I have with the creator. In a way, I choose to watch Mattias‘s and Steve’s videos because these are the friends and neighbors I wish I had. I’ve stopped watching most of John Heinz videos because he’s too much like the crazy uncle I avoid at Christmas, although the quality of his videos are top notch. Content quality are only part of the equation. I’m just as likely to click on a video that shows you two dealing with a project that only lightly touches on creating but builds the connection I feel with you as individuals. The trouble with that of course is that people are fickle and personality driven channels get to be a soap opera pretty quick. It will be interesting to see how you both navigate through your media careers. Thanks for the great discussion.

[@JohnLaudun]

Thanks for the glimpse behind the scenes (and the numbers).

[@wannabefunnyman]

Maybe I’m in the minority. I love the project videos. I find it satisfying to watch a master craftsman make great things. I can easily watch 2 hours of Rob Cosman building. Watching Matthias build things in ways I wouldn’t imagine is fun.

[@djvitornunes]

I see everything I needed, you're my professor's, some videos are not for the moment, they are a inspiration for all time, thanks a lot friends.

[@styloroc2000]

It's probably just me, but my watching of woodworker channels dropped off considerably once they moved away from project videos a few years ago. I still follow the channels but I simply don't watch as much any more whereas before, I was compelled to watch every video as they came out. The only channels I watch compulsively are restoration ones like My Mechanics; it might be a formula, but it's a formula that works for me. I get that I'm not your average KZbinr, but I think the people who stick with the channel are the ones who want to be intrinsically involved and the project making is part of that. While I'm sure there is a bigger draw for subscriptions and views, I have serious doubts that those who are into the drama and quick tips stick around very long -- but of course, it is what KZbin is interested in as far as driving viewership and ad revenue. It's the very similar to how I still watch reruns of This Old House, yet nearly everything on TLC is blase a few years after it aires...one set of programming is perennially relevant and the other is just for consumption that can only be politely be described as fashionable. I doubt that Wood whisperer's sponsorship video is going to be viewed by anyone 5 years from now, maybe even 6 months ago, but here I am and I still look back at some of your (and his, and many others') videos from 5-10 years ago for inspiration and technique ideas. It's not a dig at you, I get where you're coming from -- just my observations and opinions.

[@ScottFidler]

Great comment! Especially that 2nd paragraph. I’m a big fan of Steve’s channel and have been for a long time. I watched almost every episode of lockdown woodworking. I’ve been watching less as of late. I guess that’s disappointing for me but he sees the stats/checks so good for him.

[@simon5296]

I like both of you and watched many many of your videos. I started with Steve as a beginner, and went to Matthias when I learnt more. Many times I have to go back to you guys video for a project. Thats free content yet great techniques produced by you professionals. Really appreciate your work. On the other hand, I can understand the confusion you have given the view trend. Just want to support whatever your decision might be, but I personally would like to see you guys on KZbin forever. Thanks.

[@brandonfrancey5592]

When it comes down to it, this is entertainment and I want to see something new. Every project is mostly the same. Pushing boards through a jointer, planner, table saw, band saw, ect. When I'm first leaning about these tools and processes, it's entertaining. Now it's just a rerun with a slightly different ending. How many ways can you glue wood together be it a chair, table or cutting board? Tips and tricks are great for finding something I've never seen before but each day that gets harder and harder to find.

[@karl_alan]

That's actually my biggest problem with tip & trick videos...almost all of them have a "shocking" title to get your attention, but the tips are all things I have seen before. I have actually found I learn more from project videos, where I might see someone chiseling or using a plane a different way than I'm not used to because they had to improvise in the project.

[@taladeguzman5619]

WWMM and Mathias' channel were some of my go to channels when I first started on woodworking. When I learned the basics from your channels whether it's from watching a tutorial or a project video, I just became busier doing actual projects rather than watching YT all in all. I think this is one factor as well why there is a decline in project video views. :D Anyways, kudos to you guys for teaching people like me a great deal when it comes to woodworking!

[@zachwolfrom4522]

Mattias hit it right on the head. I have been watching project videos for 12 years now and I find myself skipping through a lot of them. I have been addicted to his experiment videos and project videos geared towards electronics and programming. Good luck to both of you.

[@velcroman98]

When I embark on a new project sometimes I'll search all of your videos on that specific item. Then I'll rewatch the ones I like a few more times as I choose the aspects of each for my project. I haven't been building nearly as much with the price of wood. Keep up all of your content, quality content will always be good weather it's shorts or projects.

[@SimonMac]

This is really interesting to me - I am one of those who used to watch both of your guys's channels almost religiously; And now I haven't watched them in almost 6 or 7 years; I think Matthias put it well when he said "most of those are amateur woodworkers and they got their fill". When I was first learning woodworking I spent a lot of time watching and learning. Meanwhile I've gotten to a place where I feel comfortable in building the things I want to build and no longer consume very much wood working content - only the occasional video here and there. Anyways, on that note: thanks to both of you for helping me so much in learning such a fun and useful craft!

[@lennycruz4558]

The reason why people love watching youtube videos is to see other people enjoying their crafts, enjoying their everyday works, it entertains them, it inspires them, its not about building complicated things, but the enjoyment they see when youtuber enjoys what they are doing

[@agn855]

But knowing that a YT content creators *must* create content for a living is removing that spirit from the clips. It’s the moment when even the viewer starts thinking _"Hey, that has been said and done already a thousand times, so what?"_

[@roncooper6302]

I have watched you and Mathias for years. You two are at the top of the tree, no pun intended. I made several of your projects and sold several Andirondack chairs, not to make money but to enjoy myself and recover the cost of the material.

[@mainevids3529]

I like all you videos, Projects, shorts, and info Vids. What makes me watch your content over guys like Diresta, is because you're entertaining and more down to earth. Also, you have such an expansive collection of project videos, that if I need to figure something I can go back and look for it on your page. (I've watched your cutting board videos quite a bit). So I know my vote doesn't count lol, but I say keep making whatever types of videos you want. Keep up the good work!

[@stevenjansen5777]

Alway interesting discussions . . . I believe that both formats have their place. I tend to seek out the project video, and supplement them with the odd how to or similar. Congratulations to both of you - your channels have great content. Thank you.

[@FatManBuilds]

Really interesting video! I am building a garden room and workshop and am planing to post project videos, but I have noticed over the nearly year I have been posting building the shop that there are less projects, and lots of "tips" and "tricks", very interesting. Of course things could go full circle and eventually people may get fed up with "THIS WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING", and start looking for project videos again, Thanks

[@nyinfamous2k2]

As a Viewer and LOOONG time subscriber of yourselves and all the major players in the youtube woodworker/maker world I can share my point of view as a viewer. Im a carpenter that loves to build and learn as much as I can in the process. There was a point in time where I would binge woodworking videos daily and now I rarely if every watch any and I think I know why. There is no main reason but subconsciously Im pretty sure I understand why I dont watch anymore. Back when there was only a handful of channels , you , Matthias, Diresta, Heisz, Hawarth etc etc, I would get SO excited when a new video popped up on my feed, that I couldnt wait to watch it. Every video was something new and with new tips and tricks, or just something that I never would have ever dreamed of coming up with. Heres the thing though, back then I would see one maybe two videos on my feed a day from my top watched builders. over the years ive subbed to more , and more woodworkers that about a yr ago my feed was FLOODED with videos. A few yrs back I would see a 45 min video and couldnt wait to watch every minute of it. But when theres 30 videos on your feed even a 12 min video seems like a choir. Then some where in that time I just started skipping more and more maker videos until I reached the point that I dont watch ANY of them any more. Like you said "Saturated" Matthias put it into the perfect metaphor (and him being much smarter then I am, it took me a minute to put it together lol). But thats definitely the reason IMO. it even trickled its way into my projects, I barely build anything anymore. I used to have an entire workshop in my house , when I only had a single car garage. Now I have a new house that can fit 6 cars, and my initial thought of making an enormous shop , quickly dwindled out. Even my super supportive wife who was 100% down for me building the shop is shocked that Im not interested anymore. Its definitely weird how even if you have a passion , if you flood your time, mind, and space with everything about that passion, it almost pushes you away from it.

[@marcbenoit6673]

I like project videos I'm new to woodworking woodworking and like to see how things are done. Thank you for all your hard work and patience.

[@EquinoxPublicAddress]

I miss the project videos, but embrace the short format! What I liked about them wasn’t often the project itself, but the process. Watching how someone solves a problem I might have with a different project. I’ve picked up so many tips from so many makers by watching their project videos. I built some sign letters at work, and Jimmy’s videos were instrumental in those. Whilst not to the same level, your fairly recent cat shelves inspired me to make a cat run around the fence in our garden since our cats are all seniors and struggled to dance on the narrow top!

[@stevescovill7469]

All I will say is that I have actually made 2 of your projects. I made the rolling wood rack, and I messed with your plans for the bed and made it into a queen sized bed with 6 drawers that my daughter just loves! When I get ready to make something I always check to see if you have a video and plans. Thank you for the project videos you have made. I use them!

[@jamesleatherwood2293]

Two of my favorite OG KZbinr's!

[@martinpawlik340]

Want to leave a comment to contradict Steve: No, I don’t watch project videos anymore - I have seen em all. And I thank you all for all the stuff, tips and tricks I had the pleasure to learn from you. And I don’t like shorts - but I’m not unsubscribing because of them.I simply don’t watch them. I am staying subscribed because once in a while you guys still post valuable content. So I wish you all the best and thank you for the time you shared with us!

[@shaunhayward]

I loved hearing the dialog between two of my favourite youtubers. No matter what you guys do, I'm sure it will be interesting.

[@shanethornton3572]

Wwmm was the first channel I subscribed to because I was a mere mortal at the time. I learned so much from your channel and feel could learn please dont stop making project videos. Even for nothing more than mere inspiration to us Dyer's.

[@rerawho]

Hey Steve and Matthias. I used to watch you guys A LOT. I haven’t been back in quite a while because there is so much to see and learn from on KZbin. I spend too much time on the Tube because it is educational if viewed properly and that’s my angle. I am a metal worker of about 35 years and feel that if I stop learning I stop growing. I mix metal and wood and have gleaned a lot of woodworking knowledge from both of you. I’ve gone elsewhere because there are more ideas and styles than the two of you can offer. It’s nothing personal but no one is the end all of knowledge and YT content. Thanks you being there.

[@BazzMann48]

Happy New Year guys. Keep it simple, enjoy watching both of you. I think the core group of followers are in their work shops making saw dust and coming back when they get stuck. So, don't my comments count? I'll have to leave - not. All the best, I'll check you both from time to time. Greetings from the land down under.

[@willemselten]

I hope you all stay and make videos. Projects, tips and even mice are welcome. For me it is learning and entertainment. Next to this my languages are kept up and getting better. As a Dutch person I watch all of you (English) but also German KZbinrs. I want to thank every KZbinr for the content. Thanks to you I am still getting smarter every day/week.

[@ChristianN-]

I like videos where I learn stuff. A lot of clever small things comes from watching smarter people build stuff and learning off of them. But there's only so many videos I can watch of people building the same thing in the same way. Other times I like video reviews of things, maybe I can see someone utilizing something I have in a clever way, which is neat. I also like videos of people building specific things I need to make myself, lately I've been looking for inspiration for a square cyclone build 🤷🏻‍♂️ My wife tells me my KZbin stream is the worst so I guess it's really honed in on my specific viewing habits 😂

[@Geolaw1]

Apparently I'm keeping you guys going as I often watch each project video I like three or four times, across dozens of channels!

[@OK1ish]

I started watching Steve when he first started out. I like the project videos, but I keep watching because there is a sense of "I know Steve, I wonder what he is up to these days." Fun Fact, what ever Steve's first monthly subscription service was I paid into that, but it ended before I ever got any merch...lol

[@petersoumanis5494]

Funnily enough, my first video of Steve was the one about Norm Abrahams. I think everyone can get project fatigue, and if you think about it, you releasing 50 project videos in a year is about 3 seasons of a tv show.

[@stevelarocque69]

I enjoy your content, its all good. You teach us stuff and keep us entertained. Don't stop, keep your head up, you have lots of die hard fans.

[@Demolishionist]

I definitely fall into the "armchair woodworker" category. I do a few projects here and there and when I do, I will look for project videos for inspiration or instruction. But the channels I watch regularly are the ones that simply entertain me more so than teach me. I just enjoy seeing the process and listening to the commentary on why choices were made. Now what constitutes entertainment, _for me_, is some combination of: ·A personality that I like. I prefer those who seem genuine rather than those who seem to be in character. ·A unique project, unique take on a common project, or an art piece ·Displays of engineering that are elegant in simplicity or ridiculously complex but well executed ·Problem solving demonstrations ·Practical tips in short format ·And to a large degree content, created with relatable tools and resources. I don't have a powermatic/festool/15-board-feet-of-exotic-hardwoods budget so projects and/or channels that lean heavily on those sort of tools and materials lose my interest.

[@jothain]

Fairly similar thing here. I do only little things occasionally and usually interest in videos I might be capable of doing with my tools. Stuff like French cleats. I found them interesting and useful and actually made ones for my shop. But someone carving some furniture etc. Nah, not really my stuff or interest.

[@TeddyR_Official]

I don’t like podcasts/talkshows, I love tips on tools, and tips on woodworking in general, I like #shorts, and I love project videos :). Yes, there’s a lot of them out there already, but I end up viewing the same videos over time if they are really good. I think the thing is, there must be something unique in the video that people haven’t seen before from other videos, make it unique or stand out. Hope to see more project videos from you guys soon.

[@jomichat1975]

Logan Swafford.... You took the words right out of my mouth. My sentiments exactly.

[@georgewilmore7599]

I love project videos, review videos, and anything put out by my favorite KZbin personalities which you are a couple of plus five or six others.

[@mattwlane]

For me I still like to watch certain personalities do most projects. Even if it is a side table, I'll still watch depending on the channel/personality. The specific way someone does something is instructional to me. But if the project is to simple or conversely too complicated, I might bail.

[@sebmstudio1697]

I used to watch every project videos. Now, I watch those I find interesting for my growth as a woodworkwer, since I have grown while watching all those projects videos. So while I don't watch all of them, if your project has an interesting design or is something I can learn from that is useful to me right now, I'll watch it. As for the videos like the I lost a sponsor one from Marc Spagnuolo, I think a lot of people genuinly care about the content creators they've come to enjoy watching over the years so it is only natural that when big changes happen, they want to know about them.

[@mr.picklesworth]

You guys and the wood whisper as well as other big channels it doesn't really matter what the video is. People aren't usually watching it because they are looking for an end table build or whatever we are watching it because of who made it. When a new video comes out by Matthias or the wood whisper I watch it regardless of what it is. That being said the project videos are by far my favorite to watch because I can relate to them and learn something. If your trying to get new viewers then I can see the topic mattering more.

[@kurtisca]

Too bad to hear the project videos aren't performing as they used to. To me, project videos are the next best way to learn skill and technique next to actually being there with the builder. I get people want the 'tips / tricks' or some 'drama' but my favourite thing about wood working is it doesn't need drama to be fulfilling (really, the less 'drama' the better as that usually means wasted wood). Thanks for letting us witness your discussion on this topic.

[@JohnJeiJei]

I have been following both of you (and every single one of the other channels you mentioned, plus over 30-40 others) for almost a decade now. Your channel was the first woodworking/project based channel i've found and subscribed to when i discovered this passion, and i've watched SO many of your videos so many times.. When it came time to build a shed, i watched Matthias' shed building videos 10 times over, to see what i can use and what i can adapt for my own purposes. I am never going to attempt what Stuff made here is doing, i'm more than likely never going to build a 10' resin river table with LEDs and dancing dildos or whatever. But even then, i'll watch the videos, because i love seeing the creativity involved, i love seeing the project come together, i love seeing the mistakes made and how they get fixed etc. I also like shorts. Not as much, but they're usually down to earth golden nuggets when you actually need that little tidbit of information. If i'm never to use them (or even remember the tips), that's life. But it's content. It IMMENSELY depends on the project and the quality of work put in. For example, i've been following Bad Obsession Motorsport for.. four years? They sometimes go months at a time without a video, but their work is exemplary, their ingenuity is amazing, and their humor and charisma is top notch, so i wait. It greatly depends on each person. I am fortunate, i can have a video opened on one monitor while working, so it's not like i'm withering away at the PC just watching youtube. Whatever you decide to do, whichever direction you want to take YOUR channel, it's entirely up to you. But you have my utmost respect for all that you've given us over the years.

[@InShadowsLinger]

I will watch project videos 1) if the end product is interesting 2) I am not entirely sure how it was made or I feel I could learn something new 3) it is Matthias’ video, as he manages to make the content interesting every time. The problem with most project videos is that they have the same content: measure, cut, screw/glue together, finish. There is only so many times one can watch that before it gets boring.

[@guitarman256]

I can't remember when I started watching both of you guys. Matthias was in his original basement and well before the KZbinrs clubbed together to buy Steve a decent table saw. Could it really be 15 years? I probably have stopped watching a lot of project videos. A lot of the KZbinrs moving from their original sheds and garages into 10,000sqft workshops kind of took the "I could do that" feeling away. Renovating my own home showed me how hard work it really was, it's amazing how easy you guys make it look in a 10 minute video!

[@jarodmorris611]

I was just thinking about the table saw purchased for Steve as well. How long ago was that? EDIT: I just looked and it was at least 9 years ago that he got the gift of the table saw.

[@OwnTwoHands_]

Just wow... So many angles on the current YT situation. As a beginner youtuber, this gave me good insight, although not very reassuring that I made a good choice to even start making videos and eventually turn it into a viable business:)

[@stevenmitchell5674]

I used to watch project videos loads when I was starting out. Now I’m more confident in my skills I tend to only watch projects related to what I’m wanting to make or using a technique I want to use.

[@RuudK]

Catering to what KZbin wants is a self fulfilling prophecy by the way, I don’t understand why that isn’t mentioned more.

[@jomichat1975]

Dear Steve, This is a woodworkers' channel. We tune in to watch projects being created and to be inspired by new ideas and new ways of dealing with potential problems. A comprehensive, to-the-point narration like yours is always a bonus. We ( and I guess I'm talking on behalf of the majority of your fans ) don't tune in to follow anything else, ie: your weight loss (although I must congratulate you with your achievement), or the climate change, or even what's on TV. We love projects, even if they are repeated with different approaches and different solutions. I'd be happy if I can learn a new way of hammering a nail out of a whole new video. My humble advice to you is to keep doing projects. That's what makes us "purr". And always remember that you have a world audience, and that the USA is only a small part of this world.

[@scannon90]

I’m building a bed frame with storage and I’ve watched Ramsey’s three bed videos multiple times in preparation over the last couple of months.

[@BruceMurphy]

I really love project videos that overcome some interesting specific challenge. Maybe short clips with a focus on those as a teaser for the long video to drive traffic to it?

[@jbylin]

I do not think project videos are dead. These two gentlemen make excellent videos and I have gotten tremendous value and entertainment from both of them. I have learned valuable skills that I have applied to my own projects. These are often inspiring projects. Woodworking technology changes slowly, so a video that I use today will probably be useful for my son in 30 years when my tools become his. If these videos are being made to earn a living, there may be a certain format that could leave room for sponsorship or subscription. I want both of these gentlemen to realize that I greatly value their work. I have learned skills and much knowledge from targeted search and videos about specific topics. My alternative is subscribing to magazines and buying books, which was what I did 20 years ago when I first got a house and was able to buy stationary tools. Woodworking magazines were for entertainment and inspiration, books specifically bought were for reference. I think you both built a channel presence from both types of videos. If a number of you were able to get together behind a firewall, I would pay the equivalent of a magazine subscription. I’d view it like a premium podcast. Thank you both.

[@finder83]

Great conversation. I've noticed this trend in my own feed. I really wish that more creators made project videos, but I also like the shorts and tips videos. And by "projects", I mean furniture projects. If I do find creators that make furniture, particularly that's not just plywood, I subscribe instantly, particularly since I'm new and am still absorbing techniques and how to build things like night stands. But...after you said no one watched your projects, I looked at my own history of your channel (I pretty much watch all of your videos), and I didn't watch the two project videos...honestly because they were games/novelty, not furniture, and I just didn't care about the topic, but you were exactly right. I will say though that I'm getting tired of the click bait "5 cheap tools you need in your shop" style of videos. I will say that some creators make better short videos than others, and I do love both yours and Matthias'. Frank though I've stopped watching entirely, his projects/tools/builds are just not interesting or attainable for me. There are a few I'm still watching and hanging on to hoping they come back from the brink of clickbait though because I like their personality (731 Woodworks for example). One channel that seems to be doing extremely well with project videos is Bourbon Moth Woodworking. But he also brings an entertainment factor into the builds that I think a lot of creators struggle with. I didn't scroll through his entire history, but "how to build a giant built-in cabinet" has a million views. Of course his concrete fire pit has 1.7M...

[@tomt9543]

Totally with you on the 731 deal!

[@PatrickMcNealMakesThings]

This is my favorite woodworking channel, but honestly, I skip most of your videos if they are not project videos. I believe they are where you shine brightest. The vagaries of KZbin algorithms don't interest me at all.

[@dereksonderegger]

Project videos are necessary for me to trust that a maker actually knows what they are talking about. I think that established creators can do fewer project videos because I already respect them, but newer content creators need to have some project videos for me to work through to get to know them.

[@timma_thy]

I love this conversation. All good points. I didn't watch the plinko game because as a woodworker I am more interested in building furniture. That being said, I am always drawn to videos where the finished project makes me go, "huh, so thats how they do it." Diresta made a anvil cart and I didnt know how it was going to work until the end. I'm never going to make an anvil cart, but the engineering behind it is fascinating.

[@ian7819]

There is no way I could make every project I watched a video for. In fact I don't think I have ever made anything directly from a video. So its the approach, ideas, techniques I'm watching for. But watch enough videos from a particular KZbinr and learning per minute drops so am I willing to spend an hour watching someone making something I don't need using tools I don't have from materials I can't get? No longer. Just give me the tips in condensed form. What I really like now is when the KZbinr is learning too. Then the content is genuinely novel.

[@woodsprout]

Good conversation.

[@DougPalumbo]

I understand what you’re saying Steve. However, I watch your project videos (old or new) not only for the instruction but for the presentation. There may be 100’s of bed side table project videos but a scant few (yours being at the top) look good with engaging presentation and quality instruction.

[@madscatt1063]

Please, more project videos please.

[@WritersOnTheWall]

i used to watch a lot of project videos , but its like everything really is just a variation on a box, how many box videos can i watch?

[@edm00se]

As a regular watcher, I wonder how that split looks on the high view videos of regular viewers as opposed to passers by as it were. It’s also theoretically possible YT has just hit its plateau for now of those that are interested in woodworking (ex project videos) as opposed to the passingly curious who find the click bait titles and thumb nails more enticing. Interesting thoughts, thanks for sharing thoughts with Matthias; some pretty good long running insights with you both.

[@kevinniemeyer5938]

I usually skip the project videos, and go for the DIY videos for tools like a DIY table saw or DIY jointer, which is how I discovered Matthias. There are a million ways to build a tool, and I learn something new from each person on the same tool. However, any project by Bourbon Moth I will watch because he's a great videographer, and has some really cool designs. And of course, anything Steve makes. ; )

[@mraymo1977]

As a newish woodworker I just absorb whatever I can. Whether it be you with the Woodworking Talk Show, or project videos, or reviews of something I’m interested in purchasing. I don’t really watch project videos for the actual project. I watch to see how it’s made so that I can learn the methods to use on projects I may have.

[@metzessible1271]

I think one thing to keep in mind is how YT gives us, the viewers, content. If I want to know how to do something specific in a project, I'll search and find it. But then YT tends to inundate me with videos related to *that* search query. With the advent of Shorts, they show me mostly recycled TikTok videos and the occasional woodworking short. But then my regular recommended feed reflects what I just spent swiping through those Shorts for after an hour, because I don't think YT has figured out that I may "like" a video for its content, but not because I'm interested in investing in the topic. I watch the project videos of they're related to what type of woodworking I do. I've followed both of you for a long time, so I don't consider your woodworking projects match my skill level (you make beginner projects, in other words). But I find myself rewatching Mattias' older machine making projects because they don't match my skill level (he's way more advanced). So I think there's some value to doing project videos, but I never see them because either my searches or the Shorts are destroying the way I'm presented your content. I mention this because it seems like you're more focused on the creator's perspective and not the viewer's perspective, which really should (in my opinion) be how you consider making content as a content creator.

[@24carrotgold8]

I watched your oscillating spindle sander video and was inspired to buy one. However my wood shop is only a 6 ft wall of my living room and I step outside to my lanai to saw or apply finishes. So upon further investigation, I found and bought the Wen portable oscillating spindle sander. It comes with clamps to attach it to the work surface. Mahalo 🏝🌋🌊🤗👍

[@johansteyn59]

I think the key to presenting woodwork videos lies within categorization. Type with type, level by level, complexity by complexity, e.g. basics to mid level. Any complex skill videos is just academic. Safety is also very important. Simple techniques that is doable for the guy with a table saw and other simple woodwork tools, is what I like.

[@shamsularfeen1676]

Project videos are important. There are people who may watch for entertainment purpose only however there are novices who are in the learning phase and the badly need those to get a kick start.One may not get enough likes or views on certain project but that should not make one discouraged because overtime someone may really need it to make that project and will certainly look for it..I think project videos are like lessons which will live on forever even when you are not there teaching the needy ones for generations. Its a good thing.😊

[@seanedging6543]

That’s a bummer. I feel like I’ve learned so much from both of your channels that I apply when I build anything. Like I came across this video after rewatching all of Matthias’ shelf build videos (because I want to build a shelf) Sounds like those kinds of videos are going to be less and less common in the coming years

[@tallskinnygeek]

I used to watch project videos because it's what was there that interested me. Now I watch project videos (maybe 5 or 10 of the same thing) only when I'm planning to build something.

[@HelloThere604]

I’m a long time viewer of maker KZbin. Over the course of several years now I have learned everything I know about building things from watching channels like Steve’s and others. Something I’ve noticed is that creators have always been able to turn out a new project faster than I could watch then video then turn and make that project myself. It makes sense. Their income has been dependent on making new things. Mine isn’t as just a hobbyist so it doesn’t matter if it takes me a month to finish something. What this has lead to though is that the amount of content I’ve consumed far exceeds that which I’ve personally executed. What’s interesting about that is that my knowledge lags behind my actual skill which seems backwards from a typical progression. The only other instance that comes to mind for when knowledge preludes skill is a school setting. That’s college. Only after you’ve spent years building a conceptual understanding do you get the opportunity to build technical skill. Conceptual knowledge is finite though which is why you graduate out of school. At some point you’ll have been exposed to all of the core concepts you need. It seems possible the same has happened with KZbin. Other long time viewers like myself have graduated from project videos because now we know all we’re ever going to know about dados from watching someone else do them. I’m still very much interested in woodworking though so unlike school I return to KZbin still while my skills catch up to what I’ve learned or seen.

[@billj5645]

I think project videos are still fine and I still like to watch them. When I'm interested in building something such as a desk, I search for that and watch the ones that I find that seem interesting irregardless of the channel. I also have my favorite channels that I watch and I like to watch them build projects even if the projects aren't themselves of interest to me. I'm always interested in tool and tips videos too. And my favorite channels I'll watch their videos no matter what the subject is.

[@robharrop8929]

YT has been unsubscribing and censoring comments (even moderate ones) to the point that people no longer subscribing or commenting. Having said that, I am looking forward to a prepper project video from the two of you on a homemade whole moose roadkill dehydrator using a washing machine motor and a wooden rotisserie wooden gear driven flipper thingy. Honestly, I followed both of you for years and really enjoyed the content. YT is too frustrating to use now, and these overly loud ads really p*ss me off.

[@be4ze1]

It’s 100% down to attention span. Our brains are changing, and the internet has done that. Plenty of upsides to it and also lots of downsides. Wandle is spot on when he says people like the tips and tricks videos because they can skim them, like we have all trained ourselves to do with internet articles... read the headline, skim the middle, read the conclusion, hope to take something away from it quickly without putting any effort in. It’s sad, but I hope you keep making the project videos, I need something to distract me in the evenings from endlessly scrolling through shorts of people pulling fake pranks, reacting to someone else’s content and showing me what a wall plug does over and over again while my brain rots!

[@MrNotURMailman]

I enjoy project videos. I watch all of yours. I also watch your other videos, including most of the shorts. There are a few channels that I watch pretty much every video as they come out. I think society as a whole is developing a short attention span.

[@leistico]

It makes sense to me. As everyone steps up their game and and more of the audience becomes experienced and winds up with overlapping skill sets, people want something they haven't seen before, something they haven't heard before. Deep dives, more "why" as opposed to "how to," content which shows things that haven't been fully explored before, be it long-form or short, will get more attention and more views. Things that make people go "huh - hadn't thought of that" will be the new evergreen, as opposed to the dense forest we have now.

[@yewsengcheong1637]

Laura Kampf seems to have quite a bit of success with this. At least she is still making making them. She has some really novel ideas though. Just thinking out loud as you were saying about novelty. I can see how the epoxy table ones don’t excite me as much now.

[@yewsengcheong1637]

Maybe leading up to the project videos, you can release a series of shorter videos that feature techniques used for the project. That’s what I watch project videos for. To pick up ideas that can be more universally applied. That could be cannibalising from people watching the project video itself though.

[@mikestephens1419]

I was watching Ramsey when he smoked on camera and my daughter still sleeps in the wandell twin bed. I remember pulling over on the side of the road on Friday to watch Steve's newest video.

[@shawnkirsch]

I think a lot of it is the change from subscriber focused youtube -> the promoted video homepage.

[@drhfhs]

your guys projects are for us fans so keep at it we watch them :D

[@MarceloFreitas70]

I like video projects and short videos too. They have different conceptions. There's no point hating one or other. We have to follow the new tendences or we'll be left behind. For instance, Philip Stephens's channel desappered because it doesn't change to follow new kind of viewers and KZbin's algorithim. But he keep his core audience. I think we have to keep an open mind. Thanks for sharing this wise video. Marcelo.

[@Lordbyronq]

Number 1 - I love project videos (but I never watch them) Number 2 - I hate shorts (but I always watch them) Jk thanks for the great work Steve. Always love your perspective on things and I hope you are able to keep making your fantastic content for many years to come.