I learned everything from YouTube

Five years ago, I only made digital art and I didn't know anything about social media or how to run a business. Vlogging was the farthest thing from my mind and crafting was only a thing I did as a kid.

Fast forward to today, I somehow have gotten into traditional media, ceramics and playing the social media game daily to support my art business.

YouTube has been my go to when trying to learn anything new. It’s been a huge source of inspiration and knowledge, and I’ve learned ALL of my new skills from YouTubers, from crafting skills to video editing techniques. This is a list of the most prominent channels who have helped me on my Artistic Journey!

Ceramics

Earth Nation Ceramics - Donte has been my one true teacher in learning Ceramics techniques. He has an amazing playlist for beginners where he thoroughly explains not just what he’s doing, but also why.

Old Forge Creations - I just discovered Joe and he has an amazing variety of videos of making pieces from start to finish using different techniques and glazes. A great source for inspiration and learning about the ceramic process!

Needle Felting

Maqaroon - I used to do needle felting a lot, and if you aren't familiar with this craft, it's basically a way to make tiny plushies without sewing. Joanna also has tons of craft tutorials if you want to try something new and fun!

Polymer Clay

Creative Rachy - Rachel makes tutorials on how to make tiny, kawaii charms using polymer clay. When I first started out, I watched sooo many of her tutorials to learn. She is the main reason why I got so into crafting!

Running a Business & Social Media 

Cathrin Manning - When it comes to Social Media and how to run a business making content, Cathrin is my go to. She makes videos about the details of her business, how she strategized to grow on YouTube and dives into the analytics of how she grew her YouTube channel. She also has amazing intro videos on how to start vlogging which helped me out a lot!

Vanessa Lau - If you’re looking for tips on how to get into social media and up your game, Vanessa is the one you want to check out. She has tons of videos specifically about Instagram, TikTok and how to grow your reach.

Watercolors

Angela Fehr - Believe it or not, watercolors used to be my least favorite medium because I always thought it was a very unforgiving. But Angela approaches watercolor with such freedom and fluidity, it really lifts the pressure of trying to be perfect and instead embrace the unpredictability of watercolor. I highly recommend her for anyone who is starting out!

Billy Showel - Billy's work, on the other hand, is much more traditional in its approach and I would say almost the opposite to Angela. She specializes in realistic botanical paintings which I find incredibly challenging! Her videos are a little more advanced, but her tutorials are broken down and she explains the techniques she's using so you can follow along.

I was a complete noob when I started out in each area, starting from 0 and with no previous experience. Trying something new can be scary, especially when the things you make don't look good. But like anything, you just need to give yourself time and practice when developing a new skill.

I encourage you to try something new this summer and stretch your creativity! You never know what you’ll like 😊