Thank you for your discussion on this topic. As a viewer I have never bought anything from any of these things. One reason is that I live at the bottom of the world and getting things here cost the earth. Another thing that has resulted from these things is that I no longer subscribe to many of the channels that feature sponsorships, gifts or pattern testing - it just became pointless. Ditto those which feature pattern and fabric hauls. They become very boring when the viewer is unable or unwilling to buy lots of fabric patterns etc. should I want to make a pattern I then search for a pattern review.
So interesting to see other people's POV! I LOVE fabric and pattern hauls. I may not want to buy everything they show but I often learn of things I hadn't been aware of before. Thanks so much for sharing your opinion Jacqui!!
Thanks for this vlog Michelle. When I first found sewing vlogs I quickly noticed a pattern where the vlogger was using the most expensive fabrics and then saying that they were 'gifted'. My definition of a gift is that it's an item or experience given in friendship/love/joy with no expectation of reciprocity. So I worked out that they were being 'paid' to promote the fabric and then I made my choices about whether I would keep watching. I must say that I really dislike subscription box 'unboxing' vlogs - even when the items are lovely & I like the vlogger, it's like watching an advertisement. Not relaxing or creative enough for me.
I understand what you're saying. I guess I just view it differently. I'd rather see an "ad" from someone I know and trust, than from a paid advertisement on tv where I have no idea who the person is. I believe that the majority of sewing vloggers are sincere and authentic in what they share and promote. I think the reason we mostly see positive reviews is because the vloggers are turning down so many offers from companies that are not aligned with their channel content or they don't like the product. So the ones they DO accept naturally end up being positive. But that's just my opinion. I support everyone having their own!! Thanks so much for sharing your POV - I appreciate it!
Oh, that explosion of color with your backdrop and top. I want to be surrounded by it all the time. You are such a great influence. Give me all the color! I think you know what I'm going to say, since I feel so strongly about this kind of thing. When it comes to ambassadorships and pattern testing and gifts and the like - basically getting something for free in exchange for talking about it on YT - I am not someone's free advertising. Businesses have operating costs and one of those costs is advertising. As such they should be paying me if they want me to promote their product.. They will appeal to our egos, because who isn't pleased when their YT or IG is recognized? We let them get away with using us if we fall for their tactics. A reputable company will see your value and want to invest in your willingness to advertise their product. This is business. We need to treat it as such. Love you! xoxoxox
Thank you Michelle, I really enjoyed your vlog. I’ve often wondered about pattern testing and ambassadorships. Sometimes I feel the sewer is just telling me what she thinks I would want to hear and not all the pitfall in the pattern. Happy sewing 🧵🪡🇦🇺
That's definitely possible! I prefer to hear from people that are just doing a regular pattern review - not necessarily a tester. I think you get a more complete POV. Thanks for jumping in!
Very interesting info Michelle. I don't participate in them, but I always try to leave a comment to help my favorite TH-camrs build their numbers. I appreciate the time, effort and info you all put out for us.
Always go with my gut. There are only a handful of reviews or products I trust. Called out a number of British youtubers with their free $900 lamps. Basically every British channel received one. Some didn't even identify " includes paid promotion " on the intro and were ruffled and sarcastic when called out for it. Again all the same patterns reviewed by every youtuber in England I watch in Australia and appreciate all of the hard work and effort TH-camrs commit to us seeing quality and informative videos. I don't want commercial TV adds incorporated into the video. Be truthful please 🙏
I've seen some of those lamp videos. I'm not sure I agree with you - if the lamps were gifts, that is completely different than a paid promotion. But I completely understand your point. One thing I'd like you to consider though - creating videos, especially those that put a LOT of effort into it (not me 🤣) is not cheap. So if someone is taking advantage of a sponsorship or gifts, as long as they are doing it with authenticity (which I do believe is possible), then that just helps them continue to bring. you quality videos. Just my two cents 😊
@MichelleSewsAgain youtube requires disclosure of gifts if they are being promoted in the video, and they were all being promoted with a discount code. I realise the expenses associated with producing content , but it falls back to sincerity when promoting a product. I would never begrudge a freebie as you earn them, but these had strings attached, and as you stated, how accurate is the review. Appreciate your comments and honesty.
Great video Michelle! I agree with you…if anyone is thinking about any of these options, please consider what your motives are for doing so! I only did two sponsorships in my entire TH-cam (short) career and it was because I believed in the company! I’ve only done one Ambassadorship because I love the company (and they are the only ones who accepted me-I’m still an ambassador). I’ve never been excepted as a tester (applied for some). All in all…if anyone is thinking about it, they should really view this video first! Thanks for sharing your candid thoughts! 👏🏽👏🏽🤗
Hi Myra!! I think the majority of YT'ers are supporting companies they love. If it's not a company they love, they might have gotten caught up in the frenzy like I did - but at least the patterns I DID make from RP are ones that I enjoyed 😊. Thanks so much for watching!!
I support this message! 😂. It was totally the use of poppycock that won me over! Seriously I have not given any of these a long first thought. It giving work vibes- performance expectations, deadlines, annual reviews (renewals). I do appreciate those that are doing this work, it just isn’t something that appeals to me. Thanks for sharing your experience and insights.
Haha - poppycock was totally appropriate 😂. I agree - I'm appreciative of those that do but it's not something that I'll be doing very much of (if at all).
I agree in most of your points. I have an ambassadorship for a German pattern company. But since I have sewn not many but a certain number of their patterns, since I have that ambassadorship there hasn't been a single pattern that appealed to me. As long as GB would remain in the EU Ive been an ambassador for Minerva,. But nowadays it's extremely expensive to recieve mail from there. In terms of Gifts and spnsoring I don't have that much followers that I would be interesting to any company. And maybe it's a bit different in Germany. We have only and Hand full of TH-camrs, that are well known. But they do have sponsors. Thank you for your clear words and clear opinion!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience! Yes, if I ever did an ambassadorship again, it would have to be the right one. I can't think of many I would be interested in.
Love your honesty Michelle! Nice to hear about these topics from your perspective with the success you've had with your channel. You're one of the YTers that I do trust. Hope you're having a great weekend!
Likewise Angela! I know you would never give a positive review on anything you didn't love!! I think that's going to be true of MOST of the sewing YT'ers....but there are some I think go for the money 💰 🤷♀️
Great video, Michelle! I also found myself trying to keep up with what I thought I needed to do if my channel was going to be successful - and for a time, that was fun. Until it wasn't 😂 My sewing time is precious and limited now, so testing is less appealing, but I do really like that iterative process and giving feedback. It's definitely worth more than a free pattern, though!
Megan! I was literally just thinking about you a couple of days ago! You are missed lady 😊. I figured there had to be some of you out there that enjoyed the iterative process of testing LOL - I just knew it wasn't me! I hope you are doing well 💕
🤔that was an interesting topic. As a viewer I just enjoy doing challenges and sewing for “pay it forward” projects. I’m enjoying my new found hobby and I don’t want it to become “work”. I have enough jobs. 😂unfortunately only one pays the bills so I can’t afford to give to much freebie time away. Thirty years ago I loved cake decorating for the joy of it (and gas money) until people got crazy with orders, the delivery etc. and it just snuffed out my joy. I don’t want to see that happen with sewing. I just want to sew and make people happy 😊 But, for those that make that sacrifice, I say “thank you”. Your much appreciated. 👍👏
For me, this is a hobby, so I need to keep that in mind when making decisions. For others, they have more invested in it. I support their right to accept sponsorships, gifts, etc. And I'm careful about whose opinions I trust as authentic and whose I don't. I agree with you though - I don't want to turn this hobby into a "have to"!!
Fun video! I love how you tell people to consider if they already love the patterns. I’d like to add that many companies request gift sponsorships now. I always say no to those because it’s a lot of work and they reap the benefits more than we do.
Hi Michelle - this was so fascinating to listen to the descriptions and your thoughts. And some of it was new information for me. I am not on Instagram or have a youtube channel. So I can't speak to some of the topics. But I always wondered about the Sponsorships and Gifts. There are channels where I really wonder. Anyway, love the fact that you come up with really different things for us. Keep it up! Take Care
I loved listening to your experiences and opinions on this topic. I am just starting out as a vlogger and put it off for quite some time as I was concerned it would create a pressure that would tarnish my love of sewing. I sew because my job is quite stressful and sewing is my sanity. I definitely get a sense of vloggers who are for testers and ambassadors because they love the companies or products they promote, some just seem to get caught up in being flattered to be asked and there are a small few I’ve come across that just grab and sell anything offered to them which does make me reach for that unsubscribe button. Each to their own, but we are all responsible for our own choices and decisions Well done for stepping right in to that topic and opening up the conversation 💪🙌🫶🏻
Welcome to YT!! Don't feel pressure - go at your own pace. If you aren't doing this for money then you don't have an obligation to anyone!! I agree - I feel like I can tell when someone is promoting a company or product because they love it and when it's just a money grab. Luckily, in this world, I think the majority do it out of their love for the craft and want to share great products 😊
Thanks for this review! It was nice to get some specifics about these different topics. Fwiw, I had trouble with RP as well, though it was a prize that they sponsored for a store event. Never saw it, never came, so I'm not inclined to look at their patterns. I don't really enjoy sitting through the sponsored part of the videos, but I usually do 😉 Thanks again and happy sewing!
My primary issue with RP is the style of patterns in their library. The ones that I HAVE made, I actually like. I just don't like enough of them to be an ambassador. I'm sorry you had a negative experience! Thanks so much for joining in the convo!!
This was a very interesting video to watch Michelle - thank you so much! I’ve thought about applying for one or two ambassadorship programmes with companies I really like, but changed my mind because it’s so important to me to always be honest in my videos and I would feel horrible if a product (pattern or fabric) just wasn’t very good and I needed to “act” as if I liked it. 😂 That’s also why I always said no to sponsorships. I have received gifts in the past but like you said, none of them came with a requirement to provide a review or mention them in a video. As for pattern testing… no thank you! 😂 My job is technical writing and instructional design so I would gladly review pattern instructions, but would not do it for free (unless the designer was a friend). 💞
I feel like I could still be honest, but if it's with a company I love, I might honestly love the pattern LOL. Even if I have to make adjustments, which I WILL because my body shape is not in any designers block, that won't be the deciding factor if I like the pattern or not. But, I get it, it's can be tough to give a bad review.
I get lots of offers to review items that have nothing to do with my channel. And their email always say they have watched my channel and feel their item would be a great fit. I dont like the pressure of having to review and record which is why i turn down a lot of them. This is an interesting video topic. 😊
Poppycock! 😂 I am with you there Michelle ! I have done two pattern tests and that was enough. The first one I spent a good bit of time printing, taping and cutting to only be told less than 24 hours later there was a mistake and I needed to print and tape it all over again. Too much work in exchange for a pattern. I will just buy the patterns I want and have them printed on A0 thank you very much. A big yes to Minerva or Black Bird ❤❤
Really interesting topic Michelle. Thank you for shining a light on it. As a viewer, it depends on the TH-camr I’m following. I tend to “trust my gut”, and I think most of us know who we trust and believe to be genuine. Promoting patterns and fabrics is one thing but advertising products can be disingenuous and very irritating. Love your honesty Michelle 😊x
I understand your POV Shelly - but I would challenge you to consider how many offers a YT'er gets and actually just either ignores or turns down. So my thoughts are that, even for the product advertisements, as long as it's sewing related - whether you believe they are being honest in their opinion or not - they may be shining light on something you weren't aware of?? That's how I look at it anyway - then if the product seems interesting, I do my own research 😊. Thanks so much for jumping into the convo!! I appreciate it 💕
@@MichelleSewsAgain Yes, you’re right of course, and as you say, I jumped in. It is worth considering more closely I agree. It’s a good topic for discussion 🤔x
Great info, thanks for sharing. ♥️ My pet pieve is when the vlog is a paid promotion, call it what it is... ie A membership only pattern or, monthly subscripion un-boxing etc. Oh well, the internet is e-commerce prone & we can pick & choose who we subscribe to, buy them koffee or make a donation because the content was good. Keep up the good iwork! 👍👍👍
If someone is a member or has a monthly subscription and they are sharing their opinion, that doesn't mean it's a paid promotion. Even if they get the product for free. Someone has to actually get paid $$ for it to be a paid promotion. The comments to this video have been very enlightening for me. I truly appreciate the feedback!! Thanks so much for sharing 😊
Good point ♥️ but I will still avoid those vlogs that feature membership only patterns but will watch those that focus on patterns that are available to all, weather or not they benefit. We benefit from their experience.😊 I hope you are safe in your stormy part of the world! 😥
Good topics. I'm not a youtuber and have little (none? !!! LOL) interest in pattern testing or being an ambassador. I'm picky about which patterns I want to make and would be irritated having to make ones I didn't like. I never did knitting pattern testing, either. I want to make what I want, when I want, and how I want.... wow - I sound pretty spoiled, LOL. Like you said - there are some people who seem to be inherently trustworthy after watching them a while and I will take what they say under consideration. I absolutely do my own research on the products if I'm interested other than just listening to the sponsorship blurb. One wonderful thing about youtube is you can just glide on by the parts you don't want to hear! Thanks for a thoughtful video.
really interesting video. I actually don't have any opinion on them one way or another . I do agree wholeheartedly that you need to think about why you are doing whatever and if its a good fit...That also goes for why you are not doing something. Sounds like you have thought about both.
As a viewer i have never bought a gift product or sponsored product from a TH-cam channel. I dont think i have ever consciously bought a pattern because of a review. I have been influenced by pattern designs though and perhaps will purchase fabric from a new company mentioned. If someone is showing a garment that i like the look of and i think it would suit me i might consider it. At this point i have lots of patterns so really i just look for fun. I know businesses and TH-camrs like to make some $ and i appreciate that they are using their time to put content up so i will normally watch. Sometimes some TH-camrs go on and on about a sponsored item so i scroll forward or click off.
I have definitely bought a pattern after watching a review. If someone reviews something that they have paid for - what are your thoughts on that? Does it make a difference?? The comments on this video are so interesting to me. If a sewing youtuber makes a sponsored video about something that isn't sewing related, I definitely fast forward through it. I find that off-putting. Thank you so much for sharing your POV!!
Hi there Michelle. All very interesting and useful. Claire from Penquin and Pear put out a similar vlog to this a couple of years ago, you may enjoy it or already have seen it. As a small You Tuber I've spent the last year yearning for when I was ' big' enough to get ambassadorships, sponsorships etc. I watched on enviously as the whole of the English sewing You Tube sorority got those Serious Reader lights to showcase 🤢😢. That's the pinnacle of success, right??? 😂 This vlog of yours is very timely for me because actually over the last few weeks/months I've realised that part of You Tubing may not be for me. I did get one affiliate link and, yep, it was for a company whose patterns for the most part don't fit in with my style aesthetic or even with my body shape. I did genuinely love the couple of patterns I made and showcased but there really were only those two that I liked in their portfolio. Also I didn't love having such a prescriptive set of instructions for what essentially is my creative outlet. I shoulda learned by now in life I don't enjoy deadlines, a set of prescriptive rules, really anyone telling me what to do 😂😂😂😂. I have done one pattern test which I spent about $20 USD on fabric for, I received the final pattern as a thank you. It was for a pair of joggers. I am not a joggers kind of a gal, Michelle. This month I should get my first payment from Adsense (woop woop 🎉😁😎) and I reckon I'm going to be happy with that moving forward. This is my hobby, as Whitney says, sewing helps my mental health, its my creative outlet and my You Tube channel is now part of that. Just some good fun. I've even realised I haven't even been making the things I actually WANT to make because I was focused on 'giving my viewers what they want' what I thought they wanted. But actually they want to see ME and my personally and the things I want to make, something different from everyone else..... or the same as everyone else but just with my own twist. So yeah.... I hear ya. That was some thought provoking stuff to mull over.
I used to watch Claire a lot so I'm sure I've seen that one, I just don't remember it. I think you nailed it - getting to participate in ambassadorships, sponsorships, etc makes you feel like you've "made it". To me, an affiliate link is different. I should have included that in the video. But if you love something and you share a link to it for others to buy - how is that any different than a paid salesperson getting a commission? I only include affiliate links for things that I'm using and feel confident sharing with others. If you genuinely love the patterns you've made from. the company I don't think it matters that they aren't your overall aesthetic. I've never heard of having a prescriptive set of instructions for an affiliate link - that's interesting - I would not care for that either. Haha - I'm not a fan of anyone telling me what to do either 😂 As for sewing what your viewers - you are spot on - as Andra would say "your vibe attracts your tribe" 😍
I would never participate in a testing situation if I need to make more than one. And that has not been my experience. I have tested for 5 different pattern companies . I have never been paid what my resources or labour are worth. I do it if I’m interested in the pattern and if I like the company - for a variety of reasons. I have the time, I do one about once or twice a year. I have applied several times to test and haven’t been “accepted”. I am a Minerva brand ambassador and the requirement is at least one garment made per year to stay on their list. Thank you for the discussion
I have only pattern tested about 5 times and had to make revisions on every single one - you've been lucky! Lucky you being a Minerva ambassador - that's an easy requirement and it's easy to support a company that only provides quality product!! Thank you for joining in and sharing your experience 😍
It totally depends on the fabric you choose. In the model sample I think they made it out of a more structured fabric so the sleeves do look huge (which is actually what drew me in!) but I made it out of a soft and well worn thrifted sheet and the sleeves collapse nicely so they aren't overwhelming at all. I did not do a great job on the under arm gusset, so there is some puckering. I would like to give it another try and make that part work. I do wear my top often and don't feel like it looks like "too much" for work. I haven't made the dress version yet. Could be an interesting option for my nieces wedding but I'm quickly running out of time for muslins and finished garments 😳
This was a really interesting video. I so far have not done any sponsorships as everything that I'm appeoched about seems irrelevant or is not something i would buy sewing related or not. X
I have had the same thing Clare - never approached by anything sewing related. Even though they say "I've watched your channel and think our product would be a great fit" 🤣
What I don’t like is when a TH-camr or instagrammed doesn’t disclose that it is an ADVERTISEMENT. I tend to not watch those videos. If I do, I’d like to know it was a gift, a test, an ambassador, etc. I would love to receive free fabric or be an ambassador, someone hook me up! I have patterns tested and not been compensated except the free pattern. I’m ok with that, if I like the pattern or designer. I recently tested a dress for a new designer and loved the dress. I was happy to help her with her first release. I spend my extra money on fabric and concert tickets! I’m addicted to Lady McElroy right now, hope they are reading this….call me 😉
Yes, I agree - they should be disclosing whether it was a gift or a paid sponsorship. I feel like most of them do put a disclaimer in the description box 🤷♀️. I hope Lady McElroy gives you a call!! 🤣
I’m a bit on the fence. I subscribe to three channels that use these techniques but I trust their objectivity and love their content. I have more of an issue with “unboxing”. Such a wasteful practice and it’s 100% advertising including for pins, teabags, chocolate and any other random fillers.
Is your issue with unboxing videos only with the ones that are "gifted" the boxes? I watch plenty of unboxing videos where the person purchases the box themselves. I'm just curious?? I'm unclear what you consider wasteful though?? Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts!! I appreciate it 😀
Hi Michelle. Thanks for your response. I know there are many types of Unboxings and some are simply a choice of pattern and of fabric which is likely to be turned into something. But some deliver complete surprises and I'm sure not all of the fabric will be used by viewer-customers. Then there's all the TH-camr excitement over a chocolate, a random notion, etc with strong focus on sharing the brand names which is not very convincing since they've had no time to test/taste them. By all means, share your love of products and their makers, but it can be done when fabric/patterns are meaningfully chosen. It's not a bit deal, since most Unboxings are labelled as such, so just an annoyance I can avoid.@@MichelleSewsAgain
This was really interesting Michelle. I hadn’t thought about these issues. I don’t find sponsorships, ambassadorships, gifts etc a problem with the sewing you tubers I follow. Some of the videos I watch related to nutrition and exercise are a different issue however and I often find it off putting - not the effect the sponsors are looking for 😂 As a viewer of many sewists I do trust the ones I am subscribed to to be honest I think the sewing community is not too bogged down in advertising. Or maybe l don’t notice so much as I am interested in the products, whether that’s patterns, fabrics, notions etc. I admit, if I see patterns and fabrics that I like and feel would suit me (and are beginner appropriate) I am definitely influenced and I go shopping 😂
Thanks so much for sharing your views Alison! I agree with you - I feel like the majority of sewing youtubers are authentic and providing their honest opinion! I am very influenced by the videos I watch - especially fabric hauls 🤣
Hi Michelle. I have a small youtube sewing channel and was approached by a jewelry company. I actually took them up on their offer because I honestly was looking for earrings and necklaces to wear to work with the clothes that I was sewing. I think jewelry complements a sewing channel if you're sewing clothes; and especially if you're sewing a business or business casual wardrobe. I do worry about my viewers though and if it turns them off. Thanks for an interesting topic.
Thanks Michelle. Jen said it all in her comment. I am tempted to try pattern testing but have too many demands on my time to realistically complete one in a timely manner. ❤🧵❤️🪡
I've discovered I have a hard enough time getting a finished pattern to fit me right - if I have to deal with pattern issues first - that's exhausting 🤣. Thanks for jumping into the convo Dotschi!!
Thank you for your discussion on this topic. As a viewer I have never bought anything from any of these things. One reason is that I live at the bottom of the world and getting things here cost the earth. Another thing that has resulted from these things is that I no longer subscribe to many of the channels that feature sponsorships, gifts or pattern testing - it just became pointless. Ditto those which feature pattern and fabric hauls. They become very boring when the viewer is unable or unwilling to buy lots of fabric patterns etc. should I want to make a pattern I then search for a pattern review.
So interesting to see other people's POV! I LOVE fabric and pattern hauls. I may not want to buy everything they show but I often learn of things I hadn't been aware of before. Thanks so much for sharing your opinion Jacqui!!
Thanks for this vlog Michelle. When I first found sewing vlogs I quickly noticed a pattern where the vlogger was using the most expensive fabrics and then saying that they were 'gifted'. My definition of a gift is that it's an item or experience given in friendship/love/joy with no expectation of reciprocity. So I worked out that they were being 'paid' to promote the fabric and then I made my choices about whether I would keep watching.
I must say that I really dislike subscription box 'unboxing' vlogs - even when the items are lovely & I like the vlogger, it's like watching an advertisement. Not relaxing or creative enough for me.
I understand what you're saying. I guess I just view it differently. I'd rather see an "ad" from someone I know and trust, than from a paid advertisement on tv where I have no idea who the person is. I believe that the majority of sewing vloggers are sincere and authentic in what they share and promote. I think the reason we mostly see positive reviews is because the vloggers are turning down so many offers from companies that are not aligned with their channel content or they don't like the product. So the ones they DO accept naturally end up being positive. But that's just my opinion. I support everyone having their own!! Thanks so much for sharing your POV - I appreciate it!
Pattern testing is labor and labor should be compensated! I'm glad to hear you talk about it.
💯 !!!
Oh, that explosion of color with your backdrop and top. I want to be surrounded by it all the time. You are such a great influence. Give me all the color!
I think you know what I'm going to say, since I feel so strongly about this kind of thing. When it comes to ambassadorships and pattern testing and gifts and the like - basically getting something for free in exchange for talking about it on YT - I am not someone's free advertising. Businesses have operating costs and one of those costs is advertising. As such they should be paying me if they want me to promote their product.. They will appeal to our egos, because who isn't pleased when their YT or IG is recognized? We let them get away with using us if we fall for their tactics. A reputable company will see your value and want to invest in your willingness to advertise their product. This is business. We need to treat it as such.
Love you! xoxoxox
I'll share my color with you anytime Jen 💕 I agree 100%
I agree, mind sharing the source of the beautiful artwork behind you?
Thank you Michelle, I really enjoyed your vlog. I’ve often wondered about pattern testing and ambassadorships. Sometimes I feel the sewer is just telling me what she thinks I would want to hear and not all the pitfall in the pattern. Happy sewing 🧵🪡🇦🇺
That's definitely possible! I prefer to hear from people that are just doing a regular pattern review - not necessarily a tester. I think you get a more complete POV. Thanks for jumping in!
Very interesting info Michelle. I don't participate in them, but I always try to leave a comment to help my favorite TH-camrs build their numbers. I appreciate the time, effort and info you all put out for us.
You are so sweet Sammee! Thank you so much - I always enjoy seeing your name in the comments 😍
I've tested 2 patterns and the overall experience was positive. The time frame was the only issue for me. Great topics. 👍
I'm glad to hear you had a good experience 😊. Thanks for sharing!
Always go with my gut. There are only a handful of reviews or products I trust.
Called out a number of British youtubers with their free $900 lamps. Basically every British channel received one. Some didn't even identify " includes paid promotion " on the intro and were ruffled and sarcastic when called out for it.
Again all the same patterns reviewed by every youtuber in England
I watch in Australia and appreciate all of the hard work and effort TH-camrs commit to us seeing quality and informative videos. I don't want commercial TV adds incorporated into the video. Be truthful please 🙏
I've seen some of those lamp videos. I'm not sure I agree with you - if the lamps were gifts, that is completely different than a paid promotion. But I completely understand your point. One thing I'd like you to consider though - creating videos, especially those that put a LOT of effort into it (not me 🤣) is not cheap. So if someone is taking advantage of a sponsorship or gifts, as long as they are doing it with authenticity (which I do believe is possible), then that just helps them continue to bring. you quality videos. Just my two cents 😊
@MichelleSewsAgain youtube requires disclosure of gifts if they are being promoted in the video, and they were all being promoted with a discount code. I realise the expenses associated with producing content , but it falls back to sincerity when promoting a product. I would never begrudge a freebie as you earn them, but these had strings attached, and as you stated, how accurate is the review. Appreciate your comments and honesty.
Great video Michelle! I agree with you…if anyone is thinking about any of these options, please consider what your motives are for doing so! I only did two sponsorships in my entire TH-cam (short) career and it was because I believed in the company! I’ve only done one Ambassadorship because I love the company (and they are the only ones who accepted me-I’m still an ambassador). I’ve never been excepted as a tester (applied for some). All in all…if anyone is thinking about it, they should really view this video first! Thanks for sharing your candid thoughts! 👏🏽👏🏽🤗
Hi Myra!! I think the majority of YT'ers are supporting companies they love. If it's not a company they love, they might have gotten caught up in the frenzy like I did - but at least the patterns I DID make from RP are ones that I enjoyed 😊. Thanks so much for watching!!
I support this message! 😂. It was totally the use of poppycock that won me over! Seriously I have not given any of these a long first thought. It giving work vibes- performance expectations, deadlines, annual reviews (renewals). I do appreciate those that are doing this work, it just isn’t something that appeals to me. Thanks for sharing your experience and insights.
Haha - poppycock was totally appropriate 😂. I agree - I'm appreciative of those that do but it's not something that I'll be doing very much of (if at all).
I agree in most of your points. I have an ambassadorship for a German pattern company. But since I have sewn not many but a certain number of their patterns, since I have that ambassadorship there hasn't been a single pattern that appealed to me. As long as GB would remain in the EU Ive been an ambassador for Minerva,. But nowadays it's extremely expensive to recieve mail from there.
In terms of Gifts and spnsoring I don't have that much followers that I would be interesting to any company. And maybe it's a bit different in Germany. We have only and Hand full of TH-camrs, that are well known. But they do have sponsors.
Thank you for your clear words and clear opinion!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience! Yes, if I ever did an ambassadorship again, it would have to be the right one. I can't think of many I would be interested in.
Love your honesty Michelle! Nice to hear about these topics from your perspective with the success you've had with your channel. You're one of the YTers that I do trust. Hope you're having a great weekend!
Likewise Angela! I know you would never give a positive review on anything you didn't love!! I think that's going to be true of MOST of the sewing YT'ers....but there are some I think go for the money 💰 🤷♀️
Great video, Michelle! I also found myself trying to keep up with what I thought I needed to do if my channel was going to be successful - and for a time, that was fun. Until it wasn't 😂
My sewing time is precious and limited now, so testing is less appealing, but I do really like that iterative process and giving feedback. It's definitely worth more than a free pattern, though!
Megan! I was literally just thinking about you a couple of days ago! You are missed lady 😊. I figured there had to be some of you out there that enjoyed the iterative process of testing LOL - I just knew it wasn't me! I hope you are doing well 💕
🤔that was an interesting topic. As a viewer I just enjoy doing challenges and sewing for “pay it forward” projects. I’m enjoying my new found hobby and I don’t want it to become “work”. I have enough jobs. 😂unfortunately only one pays the bills so I can’t afford to give to much freebie time away. Thirty years ago I loved cake decorating for the joy of it (and gas money) until people got crazy with orders, the delivery etc. and it just snuffed out my joy. I don’t want to see that happen with sewing. I just want to sew and make people happy 😊
But, for those that make that sacrifice, I say “thank you”. Your much appreciated. 👍👏
For me, this is a hobby, so I need to keep that in mind when making decisions. For others, they have more invested in it. I support their right to accept sponsorships, gifts, etc. And I'm careful about whose opinions I trust as authentic and whose I don't. I agree with you though - I don't want to turn this hobby into a "have to"!!
Fun video! I love how you tell people to consider if they already love the patterns. I’d like to add that many companies request gift sponsorships now. I always say no to those because it’s a lot of work and they reap the benefits more than we do.
Good point! Thanks for sharing 😊💕
Hi Michelle - this was so fascinating to listen to the descriptions and your thoughts. And some of it was new information for me. I am not on Instagram or have a youtube channel. So I can't speak to some of the topics. But I always wondered about the Sponsorships and Gifts. There are channels where I really wonder. Anyway, love the fact that you come up with really different things for us. Keep it up! Take Care
Thanks so much Janeice!
I loved listening to your experiences and opinions on this topic. I am just starting out as a vlogger and put it off for quite some time as I was concerned it would create a pressure that would tarnish my love of sewing. I sew because my job is quite stressful and sewing is my sanity. I definitely get a sense of vloggers who are for testers and ambassadors because they love the companies or products they promote, some just seem to get caught up in being flattered to be asked and there are a small few I’ve come across that just grab and sell anything offered to them which does make me reach for that unsubscribe button. Each to their own, but we are all responsible for our own choices and decisions
Well done for stepping right in to that topic and opening up the conversation 💪🙌🫶🏻
Welcome to YT!! Don't feel pressure - go at your own pace. If you aren't doing this for money then you don't have an obligation to anyone!! I agree - I feel like I can tell when someone is promoting a company or product because they love it and when it's just a money grab. Luckily, in this world, I think the majority do it out of their love for the craft and want to share great products 😊
Hi Michelle, Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. It was a very insightful video. 👍🏾
Thanks so much for watching!
Love, love, love the new camera angle/set up. Very nice job. Very interesting information.
Thank you! I appreciate the feedback on the camera set up 😊💕
I appreciate listening to your opinion about these sewing-related topics I don't know much about.
😍
Thanks for this review! It was nice to get some specifics about these different topics. Fwiw, I had trouble with RP as well, though it was a prize that they sponsored for a store event. Never saw it, never came, so I'm not inclined to look at their patterns. I don't really enjoy sitting through the sponsored part of the videos, but I usually do 😉 Thanks again and happy sewing!
My primary issue with RP is the style of patterns in their library. The ones that I HAVE made, I actually like. I just don't like enough of them to be an ambassador. I'm sorry you had a negative experience! Thanks so much for joining in the convo!!
@@MichelleSewsAgain 💜💜
This was a very interesting video to watch Michelle - thank you so much! I’ve thought about applying for one or two ambassadorship programmes with companies I really like, but changed my mind because it’s so important to me to always be honest in my videos and I would feel horrible if a product (pattern or fabric) just wasn’t very good and I needed to “act” as if I liked it. 😂 That’s also why I always said no to sponsorships. I have received gifts in the past but like you said, none of them came with a requirement to provide a review or mention them in a video. As for pattern testing… no thank you! 😂 My job is technical writing and instructional design so I would gladly review pattern instructions, but would not do it for free (unless the designer was a friend). 💞
I feel like I could still be honest, but if it's with a company I love, I might honestly love the pattern LOL. Even if I have to make adjustments, which I WILL because my body shape is not in any designers block, that won't be the deciding factor if I like the pattern or not. But, I get it, it's can be tough to give a bad review.
I get lots of offers to review items that have nothing to do with my channel. And their email always say they have watched my channel and feel their item would be a great fit. I dont like the pressure of having to review and record which is why i turn down a lot of them. This is an interesting video topic. 😊
I feel the same way Carmen!
Poppycock! 😂 I am with you there Michelle ! I have done two pattern tests and that was enough. The first one I spent a good bit of time printing, taping and cutting to only be told less than 24 hours later there was a mistake and I needed to print and tape it all over again. Too much work in exchange for a pattern. I will just buy the patterns I want and have them printed on A0 thank you very much. A big yes to Minerva or Black Bird ❤❤
Yeah - I hate taping patterns together in the first place, much less having to do it again because of corrections! No thank you!
Really interesting topic Michelle. Thank you for shining a light on it. As a viewer, it depends on the TH-camr I’m following. I tend to “trust my gut”, and I think most of us know who we trust and believe to be genuine. Promoting patterns and fabrics is one thing but advertising products can be disingenuous and very irritating. Love your honesty Michelle 😊x
I understand your POV Shelly - but I would challenge you to consider how many offers a YT'er gets and actually just either ignores or turns down. So my thoughts are that, even for the product advertisements, as long as it's sewing related - whether you believe they are being honest in their opinion or not - they may be shining light on something you weren't aware of?? That's how I look at it anyway - then if the product seems interesting, I do my own research 😊. Thanks so much for jumping into the convo!! I appreciate it 💕
@@MichelleSewsAgain Yes, you’re right of course, and as you say, I jumped in. It is worth considering more closely I agree. It’s a good topic for discussion 🤔x
Thank you Michelle for this very interesting video topic. 👍👍👍👍👍
You are so welcome!
Very interesting info.
Thanks :)
Great info, thanks for sharing. ♥️ My pet pieve is when the vlog is a paid promotion, call it what it is... ie A membership only pattern or, monthly subscripion un-boxing etc. Oh well, the internet is e-commerce prone & we can pick & choose who we subscribe to, buy them koffee or make a donation because the content was good. Keep up the good iwork! 👍👍👍
If someone is a member or has a monthly subscription and they are sharing their opinion, that doesn't mean it's a paid promotion. Even if they get the product for free. Someone has to actually get paid $$ for it to be a paid promotion. The comments to this video have been very enlightening for me. I truly appreciate the feedback!! Thanks so much for sharing 😊
Good point ♥️ but I will still avoid those vlogs that feature membership only patterns but will watch those that focus on patterns that are available to all, weather or not they benefit. We benefit from their experience.😊 I hope you are safe in your stormy part of the world! 😥
I love your back drop!
Thank you!!
Really interesting to hear your take on these topics. Good insight. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks!!
This was so fun, Michelle! 💗
Thanks Andra!
Hey Michelle, very informative! Tx for sharing!😊
Thanks for watching!
Good topics. I'm not a youtuber and have little (none? !!! LOL) interest in pattern testing or being an ambassador. I'm picky about which patterns I want to make and would be irritated having to make ones I didn't like. I never did knitting pattern testing, either. I want to make what I want, when I want, and how I want.... wow - I sound pretty spoiled, LOL. Like you said - there are some people who seem to be inherently trustworthy after watching them a while and I will take what they say under consideration. I absolutely do my own research on the products if I'm interested other than just listening to the sponsorship blurb. One wonderful thing about youtube is you can just glide on by the parts you don't want to hear! Thanks for a thoughtful video.
I'm also spoiled LOL - I want to make what I want, when I want!! Thanks for listening to my blurb!!
really interesting video. I actually don't have any opinion on them one way or another . I do agree wholeheartedly that you need to think about why you are doing whatever and if its a good fit...That also goes for why you are not doing something. Sounds like you have thought about both.
I agree - sometimes I'm quick to rush into something - I definitely need to be more considerate when making decisions! Thanks so much for watching!
As a viewer i have never bought a gift product or sponsored product from a TH-cam channel. I dont think i have ever consciously bought a pattern because of a review. I have been influenced by pattern designs though and perhaps will purchase fabric from a new company mentioned. If someone is showing a garment that i like the look of and i think it would suit me i might consider it. At this point i have lots of patterns so really i just look for fun. I know businesses and TH-camrs like to make some $ and i appreciate that they are using their time to put content up so i will normally watch. Sometimes some TH-camrs go on and on about a sponsored item so i scroll forward or click off.
I have definitely bought a pattern after watching a review. If someone reviews something that they have paid for - what are your thoughts on that? Does it make a difference?? The comments on this video are so interesting to me. If a sewing youtuber makes a sponsored video about something that isn't sewing related, I definitely fast forward through it. I find that off-putting. Thank you so much for sharing your POV!!
Hi there Michelle. All very interesting and useful. Claire from Penquin and Pear put out a similar vlog to this a couple of years ago, you may enjoy it or already have seen it. As a small You Tuber I've spent the last year yearning for when I was ' big' enough to get ambassadorships, sponsorships etc. I watched on enviously as the whole of the English sewing You Tube sorority got those Serious Reader lights to showcase 🤢😢. That's the pinnacle of success, right??? 😂 This vlog of yours is very timely for me because actually over the last few weeks/months I've realised that part of You Tubing may not be for me. I did get one affiliate link and, yep, it was for a company whose patterns for the most part don't fit in with my style aesthetic or even with my body shape. I did genuinely love the couple of patterns I made and showcased but there really were only those two that I liked in their portfolio. Also I didn't love having such a prescriptive set of instructions for what essentially is my creative outlet. I shoulda learned by now in life I don't enjoy deadlines, a set of prescriptive rules, really anyone telling me what to do 😂😂😂😂. I have done one pattern test which I spent about $20 USD on fabric for, I received the final pattern as a thank you. It was for a pair of joggers. I am not a joggers kind of a gal, Michelle. This month I should get my first payment from Adsense (woop woop 🎉😁😎) and I reckon I'm going to be happy with that moving forward. This is my hobby, as Whitney says, sewing helps my mental health, its my creative outlet and my You Tube channel is now part of that. Just some good fun. I've even realised I haven't even been making the things I actually WANT to make because I was focused on 'giving my viewers what they want' what I thought they wanted. But actually they want to see ME and my personally and the things I want to make, something different from everyone else..... or the same as everyone else but just with my own twist. So yeah.... I hear ya. That was some thought provoking stuff to mull over.
I used to watch Claire a lot so I'm sure I've seen that one, I just don't remember it. I think you nailed it - getting to participate in ambassadorships, sponsorships, etc makes you feel like you've "made it". To me, an affiliate link is different. I should have included that in the video. But if you love something and you share a link to it for others to buy - how is that any different than a paid salesperson getting a commission? I only include affiliate links for things that I'm using and feel confident sharing with others. If you genuinely love the patterns you've made from. the company I don't think it matters that they aren't your overall aesthetic. I've never heard of having a prescriptive set of instructions for an affiliate link - that's interesting - I would not care for that either. Haha - I'm not a fan of anyone telling me what to do either 😂
As for sewing what your viewers - you are spot on - as Andra would say "your vibe attracts your tribe" 😍
Thank you so much for such an informative video food for thought
Thank you Robyn!
I would never participate in a testing situation if I need to make more than one. And that has not been my experience. I have tested for 5 different pattern companies . I have never been paid what my resources or labour are worth. I do it if I’m interested in the pattern and if I like the company - for a variety of reasons. I have the time, I do one about once or twice a year. I have applied several times to test and haven’t been “accepted”. I am a Minerva brand ambassador and the requirement is at least one garment made per year to stay on their list. Thank you for the discussion
I have only pattern tested about 5 times and had to make revisions on every single one - you've been lucky! Lucky you being a Minerva ambassador - that's an easy requirement and it's easy to support a company that only provides quality product!! Thank you for joining in and sharing your experience 😍
The sleeves on the Mersis top look huge on the pattern sketch. Do you like them or do they feel overwhelming? (Otherwise I like the pattern!)
It totally depends on the fabric you choose. In the model sample I think they made it out of a more structured fabric so the sleeves do look huge (which is actually what drew me in!) but I made it out of a soft and well worn thrifted sheet and the sleeves collapse nicely so they aren't overwhelming at all. I did not do a great job on the under arm gusset, so there is some puckering. I would like to give it another try and make that part work. I do wear my top often and don't feel like it looks like "too much" for work. I haven't made the dress version yet. Could be an interesting option for my nieces wedding but I'm quickly running out of time for muslins and finished garments 😳
This was a really interesting video. I so far have not done any sponsorships as everything that I'm appeoched about seems irrelevant or is not something i would buy sewing related or not. X
I have had the same thing Clare - never approached by anything sewing related. Even though they say "I've watched your channel and think our product would be a great fit" 🤣
What I don’t like is when a TH-camr or instagrammed doesn’t disclose that it is an ADVERTISEMENT. I tend to not watch those videos. If I do, I’d like to know it was a gift, a test, an ambassador, etc. I would love to receive free fabric or be an ambassador, someone hook me up! I have patterns tested and not been compensated except the free pattern. I’m ok with that, if I like the pattern or designer. I recently tested a dress for a new designer and loved the dress. I was happy to help her with her first release. I spend my extra money on fabric and concert tickets! I’m addicted to Lady McElroy right now, hope they are reading this….call me 😉
Yes, I agree - they should be disclosing whether it was a gift or a paid sponsorship. I feel like most of them do put a disclaimer in the description box 🤷♀️. I hope Lady McElroy gives you a call!! 🤣
I’d also dislike pattern testing and most ambassadorships. I like to control completely my sewing bc it’s my mine.😂
Yes ma'am! 100%% 😊💕
I’m a bit on the fence. I subscribe to three channels that use these techniques but I trust their objectivity and love their content.
I have more of an issue with “unboxing”. Such a wasteful practice and it’s 100% advertising including for pins, teabags, chocolate and any other random fillers.
Is your issue with unboxing videos only with the ones that are "gifted" the boxes? I watch plenty of unboxing videos where the person purchases the box themselves. I'm just curious?? I'm unclear what you consider wasteful though?? Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts!! I appreciate it 😀
Hi Michelle. Thanks for your response. I know there are many types of Unboxings and some are simply a choice of pattern and of fabric which is likely to be turned into something. But some deliver complete surprises and I'm sure not all of the fabric will be used by viewer-customers. Then there's all the TH-camr excitement over a chocolate, a random notion, etc with strong focus on sharing the brand names which is not very convincing since they've had no time to test/taste them. By all means, share your love of products and their makers, but it can be done when fabric/patterns are meaningfully chosen. It's not a bit deal, since most Unboxings are labelled as such, so just an annoyance I can avoid.@@MichelleSewsAgain
This was really interesting Michelle. I hadn’t thought about these issues. I don’t find sponsorships, ambassadorships, gifts etc a problem with the sewing you tubers I follow. Some of the videos I watch related to nutrition and exercise are a different issue however and I often find it off putting - not the effect the sponsors are looking for 😂
As a viewer of many sewists I do trust the ones I am subscribed to to be honest I think the sewing community is not too bogged down in advertising. Or maybe l don’t notice so much as I am interested in the products, whether that’s patterns, fabrics, notions etc.
I admit, if I see patterns and fabrics that I like and feel would suit me (and are beginner appropriate) I am definitely influenced and I go shopping 😂
Thanks so much for sharing your views Alison! I agree with you - I feel like the majority of sewing youtubers are authentic and providing their honest opinion! I am very influenced by the videos I watch - especially fabric hauls 🤣
Hi Michelle. I have a small youtube sewing channel and was approached by a jewelry company. I actually took them up on their offer because I honestly was looking for earrings and necklaces to wear to work with the clothes that I was sewing. I think jewelry complements a sewing channel if you're sewing clothes; and especially if you're sewing a business or business casual wardrobe. I do worry about my viewers though and if it turns them off. Thanks for an interesting topic.
Yeah - I had to backtrack on that - I agree, jewelry definitely complements our craft!
Thanks Michelle. Jen said it all in her comment. I am tempted to try pattern testing but have too many demands on my time to realistically complete one in a timely manner. ❤🧵❤️🪡
I've discovered I have a hard enough time getting a finished pattern to fit me right - if I have to deal with pattern issues first - that's exhausting 🤣. Thanks for jumping into the convo Dotschi!!