Spent weeks on this keepsake box and video ,but something is wrong…
Hi everyone,
I recently finished a video documenting the process of building a wooden heirloom keepsake box for my best friend’s newborn daughter. I put a lot of heart into both the project and the video—careful joinery, finishing touches, and a story that meant a lot to me personally.
But after three months on YouTube, it’s currently sitting at under 400 views.
I’m not chasing viral numbers, but I hoped it would at least find its way to people who enjoy woodworking craftsmanship and sentimental projects.
I’m wondering if it’s an issue of video quality, the way I presented it, the title/thumbnail, or just the YouTube algorithm being what it is. I’m really trying to improve and would deeply appreciate any honest, constructive feedback—whether it’s about the woodworking, filming/editing, or anything else you think could help.
Here’s the video:
Thanks in advance for your time and any insight. I know everyone here understands the effort that goes into projects like this.
Replies
That's pretty typical for YouTube. To get higher numbers it seems you have to put out weekly videos in addition to using all other social media platforms to drive people to your content. I made a few just for fun on restoring an antique child's rocking chair and experienced the same thing. Some of the other channels I watch, that put out intermittent videos, show low numbers as well.
If you want to reach a wider audience it appears to be a big commitment in constantly creating new content, understanding search engine optimization, marketing etc. Almost like a whole new job.
I just watched your video by the way. Nicely done! At least you have one more view ;-)
Nice box, not clicking. I'm sure there are forums where you can get advice on how to use the 'tube.
While I feel your pain, you have two posts on this forum and both are directing us to watch your videos. That's spam.
You're welcome to become an active member of the community here and then share your work, but coming in here only to ask for views. Please don't.
The YouTube woodworking channels I like to watch have a common them in that they tell a story by narration. Tell a good story. Would also suggest more low key music. Too upbeat for my taste. The other thing I can point out is that when YouTube was younger there weren't as many woodworking channels so I was inclined to watch what was out there. Now, there are lots of good channel competing for my eyeballs and I only have so much tv time per day with more options than I can watch. Again, good story telling is key in my opinion.
There are a host of reasons I generally don't watch and don't recommend youtube videos for woodworking. #1 is bad safety procedures. I won't get into it but lets say people put too much trust in devices and not enough thought into the procedure. #2 As soon as I hear that sped up repetative screetch of the FFed sound I am out. I dont know when that became a thing but, it makes videos unwatchable. Do it once regular speed and tell us you repeated it 32 times. Thats as far as I got.
Need a push stick and safety glasses on that tablesaw.