Instructional content brand Craftsy launched a free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channel, CraftsyTV.
CraftsyTV is serving up craft-focused content such as tutorials, step-by-step demos and how-to videos. Craftsy has been available on Plex and can also be found on Xumo Play (the rebranded FAST platform that’s now part of Charter and Comcast’s JV), with more platforms coming soon. CraftsyTV first launched as a premiere feature on the Craftsy mobile app.
According to Jim Kopp, COO of Craftsy-owner TN Marketing, the channel covers over 20 categories across knitting, baking, quilting, woodworking and more.
"As an extension of the Craftsy brand, we are thrilled to launch CraftsyTV and offer viewers a unique and engaging experience that spans a wide range of crafting disciplines and interests,” Kopp stated. "With CraftsyTV, viewers can explore and learn new skills from leading experts while enjoying a sense of community and connection."
Throughout March, which is National Craft Month, Craftsy will promote a variety of special programming, live events and curated tutorials.
The latest FAST channel launch comes as TiVo’s Q4 video trends survey showed AVOD and FAST adoption ticked up year over year in the quarter, with nearly 64% of viewers in North America now watching one or more AVOD sources. And 47.2% of users noted they most regularly watch live AVOD content or content from the “Guide” offering, which typically show linear-style channel lineups.
Still, finding what to watch in a crowded space continues to be challenge. According to TiVo’s survey, content discovery is a greater pain point than price when it comes to their video services. And SVODs aren’t the only ones with vast libraries consumers need to navigate through. A recent Tubi report highlighted the rise in FAST and variety of linear channels, citing more than 1,400 FAST channels across 22 major providers, providing content to over 190 million users.