Over 50 and Starting a Creative Business or YouTube Channel? Start Here.

Hi friend 👋

If you're over 50 and wondering if it's too late to start a YouTube channel or handmade business—you're not alone.
 
I'm Wendy Varner, and I’m a small batch polymer clay earring artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina. I’ve been running my online store for a few years now, popping up at local vendor events and hosting clay workshops that I absolutely love.
 
But a few months ago, I decided to challenge myself and start creating weekly YouTube videos. And you know what? I found my people.
 
Here’s the good news: You don’t need fancy gear, thousands of subscribers, or to be tech-savvy to begin. You just need to start.
 
You Don’t Need Fancy Tech to Start
 
Let’s bust a big myth: you don’t need fancy equipment to grow on YouTube or run an online business.
 
I started filming with my phone and a basic ring light (still use it today!). Recently, I’ve been testing my laptop camera just to see what works best.
 
I use VEED to edit my videos—it’s beginner-friendly and takes care of what I need without overwhelming me. I’ll include links to my tools below if you're curious.
 
Still have tech fears? Me too. But I’m pushing through, and you can too.
 
Your Life Experience is Your Greatest Asset
 
If you’re over 50, you already have your biggest superpower: life experience.
 
Whether you've raised a family (I raised four kids), run a business, worked with your hands, or figured out retirement finances—there are people online right now looking for the wisdom you have.
 
When I first started sharing on YouTube, I talked about simple things: the best clay tools, common beginner mistakes, how to find your earring style. And guess what? Those were the videos that really connected with people.
 
✨ If you’re a beginner to clay, I created a guide: 10 Beginner Polymer Clay Mistakes to Avoid. You can download it [right here]
 
Your Voice is Your Niche
 
You don’t need viral videos—you just need to be valuable.
 
Start by asking: What do I wish I knew 5 or 10 years ago? That’s where your niche lives.
 
Some of my most helpful videos came from that question, like:
 
* 10 Beginner Polymer Clay Mistakes (and how to fix them)
* How to Find Your Earring Style
* Beginner Clay Tools – Keep it Simple & Affordable
 
Still not sure what to talk about? Start with what you’ve learned the hard way. Your story can help someone else feel less alone.
 
Yes, You Can Monetize Before 1,000 Subscribers
 
You don’t have to wait to earn income. I didn’t.
 
I include affiliate links in my YouTube descriptions for:
 
* Clay tools I use: https://amzn.to/3LDyIjL
* My ring light + phone stand: https://amzn.to/3LDyIjL
* My favorite Shopify theme: https://www.ecomgraduates.com/?ref=tljgyssz&utm_source=affiliate
* And the VEED editor: veed.cello.so/ZI1MoTQHOc7
 
I also sell my own printable guides, like:
 
* Find Your Polymer Clay Earring Style
* Beginner Tool Guide
* Must-Have Seller to Host Workshop Guide
 
These started as simple Canva designs that answered common questions I got from beginners. And yes, I offer 1:1 clay training online, too—many of those students find me through my YouTube videos.
 
Start Small and Build Over Time
 
Don’t overthink your setup. Keep it simple:
 
* Record on your phone
* Use bullet points, not full scripts
* Batch record if you can (2–3 videos at a time)
* Edit simply with VEED or another beginner tool
 
The most important part? Your idea. Not your lighting. Not your mic.
 
Need filming tips? I made a video: Newbie Tips for Filming Your First YouTube Video—check that one out for encouragement.
 
You're Not Too Late
 
If I can start filming YouTube videos in my late 50s, so can you.
 
Whether you’re a jewelry maker, quilter, writer, or just someone who wants to share your story—you have something valuable to offer. Your age is an asset, not a limitation.
 
💌 Be sure to join my monthly newsletter so you never miss a new clay drop, freebie guide, or video tip made just for you.
 
And if this post helped you, I’d love it if you’d leave a comment or share it with a creative friend who's been thinking about starting, too.
 
✅ Summary
 
Starting something new—especially online—can feel scary, especially if you're over 50. But with the right mindset, some simple tools, and a little courage, you can build a business, create content, and connect with people who appreciate your voice.
 
Start small. Start messy. But just start.