Maker Musings: My Thoughts on Starting a YouTube Channel | Edible Thoughts Makes

Hello!
Welcome to Edible Thoughts Makes. My name is Stephanie (she/her). This mini-episode is part of what I'm calling "Maker Musings." These mini-episodes discuss specific topics related to making and my thoughts on them. They're meant to be a casual chit chat with hopefully minimal editing and thought-provoking. I'm never here to tell you what to do or not do, what to think or not think!
In this episode I share some thoughts on on starting a KZbin channel from when I started to now and what questions maybe you can ask yourself if you're considering starting a KZbin channel.
I meant to talk more about my start on KZbin but then I forgot to talk about it! I was very tentative about starting a channel because:
"what do I have to offer that isn't already out there??"
"There are so many crafting channels out there, nobody needs another one."
"I don't want to add to the noise of the internet."
But honestly, we all have something to say and share and by simply being unique individuals, we have different ways of saying and sharing things. And there's value in different perspectives and value in sharing experiences. And what we share might resonate with someone else and create a rippling out that does more good and inspires more people. And so I created the channel and hit publish in November 2019. And here I am.
Note: The positive, supportive, encouraging comments on my channel have always outweighed any comments of negativity. I greatly appreciate all the love given from those who join me in this creative space. In addition to the many shared thoughts/questions, I wanted to also give voice in solidarity with others who have shared frustrations regarding unnecessary/unwanted criticisms.
Disclaimer: These are my thoughts and they may change over time! Nothing is set in stone and they're "musings" as the title says.
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What I'm Wearing and Working On (Ravelry Project Page):
Ranunculus by Midori Hirose
www.ravelry.co...
Half Granny Square Shawl by Anastacia Zittel
www.ravelry.co...
Midwinter Socks by Summer Lee
www.ravelry.co...
Cheers!
Stephanie
Ravelry: www.ravelry.co...
Instagram: / edible.thoughts.makes

[@madknitting4511]

This is why I enjoy your KZbin channel so much! You share your projects and your enthusiasm for creating things, and it's all so genuine. Plus, your boundaries are extra clear. Mad respect for that.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you!!!!❤️❤️❤️

[@LottaSocks]

I agree w you regarding negativity in comments. Not just on your channel either. Too long/short. Speak too fast/slow. Not enough xyz content. Too much rstuv content. To alllll of those who create content, to share w other like-minded crafters/makers … please don’t let negativity get you down. I watch because of content, sure, but if you want to share last night’s supper (and make me drool!) after you’ve shown me 5 sweaters in yummy yarn (also making me drool!), well … I’m here for it! At times, to me, it’s like sitting down at a friend’s house, knitting, sipping a cuppa, enjoying the company! Ideas, thoughts & tips shared are the icing on the cake (that comes after the cuppa) making time well spent! Thank you Stephanie for keeping things “real”. These days, it’s tough. For everyone. Knit Wool Peace

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

YAY for cheering people on! You rock❤️❤️❤️

[@keebir6365]

Respect and kindness, the foundations of interpersonal behavior . Your energy and honesty is always apparent in your videos …thank you for allowing us to welcome you into our home. I truly enjoy visiting with you..

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much! Take care ❤️

[@rebeccakeller6141]

I agree with you 100%!! No need to be critical if you aren’t happy with the content or anything else in any podcast!! I do enjoy yours very much!!!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much!!❤️❤️❤️

[@sarahlovesdonuts9601]

I feel like viewers/consumers have entitlement sometimes. I can’t believe that people would ask anyone to vlog. That seems like it exemplifies our lack of boundaries. I beg everyone to protect their privacy and that of their children. I have a lot of respect for you and how you operate.😊

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Oh the comments of entitlement are so infuriating!! Sometimes I think people just really don't know how much time/energy/etc. goes on behind-the-scenes when they ask for things (if I feel like giving the benefit-of-the-doubt but most times I'm just left feeling mad lol). I usually have to re-read them a few times and I'm thinking, "wait, is this for real???" Did they really just say/ask that? Thank you so much for your support and encouragement!!❤️

[@anciify]

The special charm of your videos is that you are driven by your desire to share with your viewers your personal views and your experience, without the need to profit from it "directly". This gives you the freedom, authenticity and warmth - all this, alas, is not common in the KZbin knitting community.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

❤️❤️❤️Thank you for your kind words❤️❤️❤️

[@raechellconn8857]

Loved this! 🎉 Thanks for sharing. Your shawl is BEAUTIFUL 🤩.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you! 😊

[@kymdelmar9304]

Thank you Stephanie I appreciate your honesty, in discussing the whys, wheres, and whens of podcasting. I appreciate your efforts in sharing your projects as well as what you’ve been up to in baking, sewing, adventures, reading, etc.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much!

[@etoylemckee6832]

If nothing else , this was an excellent message on setting healthy boundaries. Your videos always provide a learning experience. Thank you.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much!

[@ryoknits]

Amen to all of this! Especially people not understanding the difference between free hobby content vs a business. I really like your channel because you are just a person sharing your authentic self and the things you felt like making. Plus the thoughtfulness - I hope we meet at Rhinebeck someday!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much for spending time with me and for your kind words! Maybe one day I’ll make it to Rhinebeck, maybe …though not holding my breath 😂❤️

[@d6h597]

Thank you for sharing your realistic and encouraging approach.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

You are so welcome!

[@HeidiSpear-oz6rw]

Also an excellent musing on boundaries! Kudos!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much!

[@sarahmckay9226]

Great episode! I feel like I am sitting and knitting with a friend when I watch your channel. I find so much inspiration in your projects, color and pattern choices. I also really respect the boundaries that you set for yourself and your family. Happy Making!!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️

[@KnitandGrace]

Thank you so much for sharing, Stephanie! This video should be required viewing for everyone, not just those looking to start a channel. I feel like the internet, while it’s an amazing place to connect with people, also gives people this false sense of someone just acting or putting on a show for them. I feel like others often forget that there is a real person behind every channel and post with feelings and a life. If we simply approach viewing and commenting on others’ content the way we would approach a friend, the world would be a much better place. Because isn’t that ultimately what we’re trying to do? Form friendships and connections with one another, even if they never leave the screen. - Much love, Mia ❤

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much Mia!!!! Right?!?! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ThePattiw]

I personally would love to see more videos that are natural, get posted whenever, crinkly sounds, kettle whistling sounds , rooms used cor recording that look lived in. I just cannot take the fake versions of life anymore. Thanks Stephanie! love your content.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

❤️❤️❤️

[@jessicaolney4900]

Lots of good stuff to think about Stephanie! It's a "choose your own adventure" this YouTUbe channel thing, isn't it? Make it what you want it to be! Well, I am certainly glad you chose to do it and thanks for carving some time out to share with us. Stay warm!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Yes! Thank you!❤️❤️❤️

[@aknitlife]

Hi Stephanie: Thanks for sharing your thoughts and tips. I am surprise that some viewers are so critical and vocal about things they don’t like. No wonder some podcasters only podcast on Patreon. Love your podcast, especially the sewing, baking, gardening, and outing segments. Thanks for the knitting company, keep up the awesome work.❤

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you! I think there's a feeling of boldness (and maybe lack of filter???) in anonymity behind screens when people leave unnecessary/unasked-for critique. Appreciate your company!

[@lindaspencer6547]

Oh how utterly refreshing! Thank you. Every time I hear someone apologize for the lighting, the sound, the….(insert whatever complaints they have received), I sigh, wishing this dear person, who is making themselves vulnerable would be encouraged to just relax and enjoy the making that inspired them to share in the first place. The chapters are helpful, but even then not to be required nor requested. I appreciate your strength to do what works for you and your family and not feel pressured to be something else.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

❤️❤️❤️

[@stacya3751]

I agree with your perspective about this topic. Being authentic and practical is important for your sanity when doing this. Tracy and I do it because we love to talk about our projects and that's it. There are some things we want to develop personally to improve how we come across on the channel, but we come as we are right now. Thanks for another insightful episode.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

100% with you and Tracy! We are who we are and we have things to say and share. Always enjoy catching up with you two!! 💞

[@debbie.mckenzie]

Aaaannnnd... that's why I love your channel so much!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Awww thank you!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@melissafriedrich3171]

I loved that you shared your honest thoughts and experiences having a you tube channel! You have a wonderful healthy view with all the negative, rude comments people make. Your joy of sharing your making life really shines through. I look forward to another awesome episode, thank you so much.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so so much ❤️❤️❤️

[@christineferoli1750]

I love watching your channel and thank you for your generosity in sharing a craft that I personally love. I watch because i enjoy the company and the projects and ideas you share. So again thanks so much for sharing and also no commercials is so nice!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much!

[@AlwaysYarnFirst]

Stephanie I love, love, love this episode. As someone that already has a small podcast this was a nice reminder that we have to do what works for us individually. I'm not making money so I need to feel comfortable on what I'm filming and what I'm comfortable talking about. Thank you for saying That's ok!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Cheering you on!! You do you!! ❤️

[@jenniferwiltrout1975]

Very informative. You did a great job.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much ❤️

[@janhatfield76]

Hi Stephanie! I appreciate your information about podcasting. Thankfully I am not a person who would take on all the challenges and processes involved. Also since I have retired the tech world has left me behind. I truly enjoy your channel. I also appreciate the variety in your content. 😊

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much for spending some time with me in this creative space! Technical challenges are SUCH a bummer - one glitch can set off hours of behind-the-scenes work including re-recording full episodes and/or editing. It can be as "simple" as not plugging in a microphone or not actually hitting the record button! It happens!!

[@sml-wf3pb]

I so enjoyed this necessary (in my opinion) video. I think your message spoke to social media in general, not just "making" podcasts. Bottom line, be kind. We're all drawn to certain podcasts/podcasters for our own reasons. If we enjoy a podcast either because we feel inspired by it or just really enjoy a person's particular style or personality, we can subscribe, hit the like button and come back. If not, we can move on to the next one. I'm not sure the thumbs down button even needs to be there. I enjoy your style, your content and your peppy personality so much and I'm always excited when I see you've dropped a new video. Hope you keep them coming and ohmygosh, that shawl is gorgeous! My inspiration from seeing what you're doing with it is to be much more bold with my color choices! : )

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Totally agree with everything!! I loathe that thumbs down button. What’s the purpose??? To make people feel bad?? 🤨. Thank you so much for your kind words ❤️❤️❤️

[@TheWhitmore6]

I love what you said here. Everything on the internet seems so perfect. There is no way someone can keep up that level of perfection all the time. I prefer to watch KZbinrs who are genuine and share who they really are instead of some stereotypical persona. Love the shawls for your girls. I have some great nieces who may need some soon. ❤

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

❤️❤️❤️

[@sandracroley9784]

My worry is that podcasters may feel they always have to produce finished projects after finished projects to keep their viewers happy. I think most of us just like spending time with our favourite podcasters regardless of productivity ❤

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

❤️❤️❤️

[@thekindles1183]

Well said!!!! I feel bad when people are being critical. I just don't watch if it doesn't jive but people who do it for fun get held to this professional level of recording.. don't think that's fair at all. It's nice they want to share. Have a good day!!!! - Kimberly

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

100% Kimberly!!! Thank you so much, take care!

[@jamiejames5465]

I agree with you 💯 ❤

[@trishasmith1758]

I just found your channel in the last week and I just have to say YES! 100% on your comments for content makers. It hurts my heart a little every time I am watching and the person is apologizing profusely for background sounds, because it makes me think someone must have complained to them in the past in order for them to feel the need to apologize for not living in a soundless bubble.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Welcome! Yup, noise happens lol

[@janet_Luv2_Knit]

Great video and as always very informative.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thanks for watching!!❤️

[@bodilmattsson2053]

Hi Stephanie! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this subject ✨ I started my KZbin channel in September and I don’t use any fancy equipment, simply my smartphone to record with and it works so great for me. Your encouraging words in this video made me even more keen to continue to film and post videos 🌱 I hope you have a lovely day 🌸

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Good for you!!!! I'm cheering you on!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@stamdl]

What an interesting topic to think on. I am new to knitting podcasts this fall and I’m just so grateful that people like you share their creative life for the rest of us to learn from and be inspired by. So thank you! If we were all the same the world would be a boring place, I respect your boundaries and think you are very wise to do what you feel good about. I feel I’m a guest here in your house, so to speak, and it’s my choice to watch or not. Never my place to tell you how to run your home. Loved your encouraging words to potential new podcasters too.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much for joining me in this creative space and for adding your thoughtful words❤️❤️❤️

[@TheTrueLizarduz]

Lots of thank you for this one. I've been planning to make a video for so long and this one finally pushed me to just do it 🤣❤

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

You’re very welcome!❤️

[@merithomas2420]

I really appreciate this video because as I hear podcasters saying that they don't record because they don't have finished objects, it makes me sad to think that is all their audience wants from them. I also think that the critics have confused nonfiction content with fictional television. Again thanks for sharing.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Right??! No production crew. No camera crew. No editing crew. AND that's okay and people need to remember that! lol Thank you for joining me in this creative space ❤️

[@merithomas2420]

@@EdibleThoughtsMakes you're very welcome.

[@nicoswanmakes]

Thank you for this! I've thought of starting a channel for years, mostly because my local yarny scene is not very inviting, but I don’t have equipment and my time is so limited. I've seen videos on youtube, especially booktubers, list out their expectations. It's kind of ridiculous, often hurtful and what I don’t think people realize is that its totally just their opinion.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

UGH people and their expectations. We just want to BE. Sending love ❤️❤️❤️

[@theresamccarthy1684]

I don’t always get a chance to spend much time reading all the comments on a video. I’d like to say that I’m sorry if you have had negative comments or any kind of pressure to use a different kind of equipment to create your podcast. I think your podcast is perfect ❤

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Hi Theresa! Thanks for being here in this creative space ❤️. Honestly, the negative comments in this space are pretty minimal but I felt the need to address the reality of how those comments affect real human beings and to note that it does happen. Appreciate you!

[@cathycoughenour3849]

Love this…I am considering a channel if for no other reason to record my making! I do worry about the privacy aspect but love how you talk about it here! As you point out…it’s your channel do what you want with it! As always enjoy your videos!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

That’s a perfect reason! Cheering you on!

[@knittingghost]

I really enjoyed this chat! So many good takeaways!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much!

[@barbarawood3209]

Just discovered your channel and how great it is! Love your style- not sicky sweet, but rather straightforward, honest and contagious! So glad I came across it today.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much! Welcome to this creative space! 🩷🩷🩷

[@stacyhortner8105]

I have occasionally wondered what kind of channel I'd have if.... Have you noted any kind automated/algorithmic problems such as bots, advertisement changes in your personal social media, increase in junk mail, etc as a result of having a KZbin channel?

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Not that I've noticed!

[@theholisticinitiative]

Loved those common sense, empowering reminders. Basically, start where you are and do your own thing ❤ I just started developing my channel and I loved hearing your thoughts, thanks !

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much for your kind words❤️Cheering you on!

[@stitchesandstarlight]

Thank you so much for making and sharing this! I feel a lot of this deeply having survived my first year on KZbin and the roller coaster that came with it, and I wish someone had said this to me when I set out! Thank you for your candor.

[@noelleparris9451]

I like your channel very much: you're super real, and your spinning is amazing!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Sending you so much love!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@karyncook4291]

Thank you, Stephanie! There is definitely a lot to consider before embarking on a KZbin channel, that I had not thought about. I really appreciate your honesty and candor, along with everything that goes into each episode.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much Karyn for always supporting me in this creative space with your kind words! ❤️❤️❤️

[@karyncook4291]

@@EdibleThoughtsMakes You are most welcome. Thank you!

[@noelleparris9451]

I wish I could give this musings video multiple likes. So much of what you said was spot on. I hope that makers thinking about starting a channel or those who have started one recently (and are perhaps having second thoughts) see this. I've been told I should have a channel and even a TV show many times (for cooking: I have a restaurant background) but I am far too private to be that public and accessible. I applaud, salute and respect anyone who takes on the challenge, who puts themself out there in such a vulnerable position. Your channel is fabulous. I love how unapologetic and real you are. You are super encouraging and entertaining. And thank you for this episode, for these remarks. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so so much!!! There have definitely been times where I think, "maybe this is not for me" but so far I've bounced back and continued because the positives outweigh the negatives and I'm still having fun (most of the time anyway!). Take care! I appreciate you❤️

[@ryoknits]

If you did a cooking channel, you could use a pseudonym and just film your hands. Just my two cents. You can also just cook for joy and not make videos. ❤

[@lindaphelan7611]

LOVED THIS!!!! DITTO!!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

❤️❤️❤️

[@ll29123]

Wonderful video and I wholeheartedly agree with the things you said. Especially with the kids on the internet bit. They don’t know what that means and they can’t consent to it so in my opinion it’s not something that should be out there.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️

[@KnitStitchGrow]

Thanks for your refreshing thoughts on this Stephanie, they're really helpful. I really enjoy watching your channel, and love seeing all the things you make, but also that you have strong boundaries, and express them. I started my channel last year and have struggled sometimes with sitting down and videoing content cause of my own thoughts around how my unedited content and I will be percieved. But, I enjoy doing it, and have to keep reminding myself that I'm not here for the number of views!!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Cheering you on!!!

[@KnitStitchGrow]

@@EdibleThoughtsMakes thank you 😊 ❤

[@jacquelynjones6364]

Thank you for the terrific video, it was really informative

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Glad you enjoyed it!❤️

[@kdgeckoknits274]

The when is why I stopped my channel. I felt pressure to always have new or newish things to share (by things I mean WIPs or FOs). Plus, I got too nuts in the editing phase, and spent way too many hour editing a video, trying to remove all the. . .what I considered "junk." Like the "ums" and "ahhs" and long long pauses or whatever. But that's on me. This said: lately, I have reconsidered my position, and am thinking about trying again. Always a pleasure virtual visiting with you.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

So much to consider! Editing can definitely suck up a lot of time and energy. Hope you find the balance you seek!!❤️

[@christinevalentine3373]

I was unintentionally one of those “rude” people. I am very impressed by Stephanie’s productivity. What I really wanted to know was if there was a clue to increasing my own productivity but I asked the wrong question. I asked Stephanie if she could share how she manages her day. I live in a remote location, on an island south of Australia and was totally unaware of the inappropriateness of couching that question to an American city dweller who is also a KZbinr. When it was brought to my attention of course I apologised. I’m still wondering how do you manage to fit so much into a day? I certainly don’t want personal details. I was just hoping to learn from someone who clearly knows how to manage their time extremely well. And, knits up a storm!

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

People knit at different speeds and for various amounts of time. Someone knitting for one hour a day could "accomplish" as much as someone who knits two hours a day. The numbers aren't something I'm interested in measuring and you're asking for numbers. I honestly don't know and can't tell you how much I knit in a day - I knit when I can and I don't time myself. It could literally be a few minutes here and there, when I'm not the one driving in the car, during lessons/rehearsals where I'm waiting for my children, while playing board games with the family, etc. It varies day to day, week to week.

[@christinevalentine3373]

⁠@@EdibleThoughtsMakesThanks for getting back to me Stephanie. I like that you are respectful of your family’s privacy and that you are clear about your boundaries. As a busy person, who achieves a lot in a day I guess there may be ways in which you manage your workload that helps you do a lot. I thoroughly agree about how quickly different people knit. I feel I am a slow knitter compared to people who have been knitting for the same amount of time as me. In some ways, you have said that you knit while waiting for your children at various venues and that is a great way to utilise your time productively. Other people have said ’If I’m sitting, I’m knitting’ and that has helped me too’. Those are the kind of things that I keep in mind which help me to do the things I like doing alongside the things which are daily chores. Regardless of any of that, I really like your podcast. I especially like your colour choices for your projects. Thanks for the information you do share and your lovely projects, garden, cooking, socks (Just look at those socks you are wearing here) and your makers musings. They really make me think a lot.

[@ms_needle]

I think a general approach to managing your time is what you truly make time for and maybe also your knitting style (Continental or English etc) and practice and also how much energy you have to make better use of it all. When u get up what you eat (affects greatly how much energy you have) how motivated you are to get some knitting done or what keeps you away from it. Also learning to be okay with Not getting as much done as you might like because some knits just do need more time and attention and thats okay if you want a good result. Speed and making huge amounts of things in a very short time is not a goal for somethin you want to enjoy doing long time. Also it will have an effect on your health when u Do more than your body can handle. And maybe its an issue of setting priorities in general and wanting to get everything done at once. Or make a list of goals for a day to get a realistic feeling of what you can accomplish and see where u can improve. Maybe this helps :)

[@rustknitwear]

Really, really loved watching this and listening to you. It was very healing, listening as a very self critical person. 🥲❤️‍🩹 Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@EdibleThoughtsMakes]

Thank you so much! I’m glad it resonated with you ❤️❤️❤️