I hope you, even with your northern stoicism, know that there is a whole community of people who you have improved the lives of. You've shared a craft and made our lives richer. I'm genuinely grateful to you, and I know lots of the rest of us are too.

Sometimes life is not fair but we have to deal with it. Family and your health are very important. You do what’s best for you and soon you will be back, take care of yourself.

Very sorry to hear about these hard times you've been through. Before anything else, your close ones com first, so it should be perfectly understandable that you tended to them and not to your channel. We support you however we can, and as decent people, we should appreciate your honesty and openness towards your youtube community. I hope you find the strength to get through these events and I wish that your family is doing better after all this. All the best to you!

In this video I'm talking mainly about what's been going on in my life for the last few years and why I haven't been around much because sometimes people send me messages wondering where I am. This was a hard video to make because there has been a lot of sadness and to be honest this isn't even all of it. I'm also talking about what's happening next with me and the channel which will hopefully now be more positive. This video was filmed in mid July 2021 but not released until mid November for reasons I will discuss later. edit - I just want to say thank you for all if your kind and supportive comments, it's means a great deal to me

I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve had to go through all of this, Ian. I can relate to an extent, my father died of cancer during lockdown, I wasn’t able to visit him. I then had to deal with all the funeral arrangements, probate, etc, from a distance and wasn’t able to attend the funeral either due to travel restrictions. It’s a horrible situation to be in. Don’t worry about disappointing subscribers, just take care of what you need to. We’ll be here when you are ready! And thank you for everything you’ve shared with us so far, your channel is what got me into leatherwork, and it is now my main occupation. I will forever be grateful to you for that. Take care of yourself.

Sorry to hear all your troubles. I have heart failure myself along with atrial fibrillation and bowel cancer and am in the later stages of running out of steam. Leather work and drawing is pretty much all I do now and your channel was a huge part of my early learning. You are still where I point people with questions and I believe the best on KZfaq. I will watch all your content and will no doubt dream of having the workshop that you will create. Best of luck with all your future endeavours.

That does explain everything, I'm 68 years old, I learn a lot of tips from you; I don't sell my leather projects just give them away. You have been missed.

I used to forge knives and they rarely sold. It was not because the knives were not good but people wanted a sheath included. Well I checked with the limited leather workers in my little corner of the world and because of the lack of competition, the price was more than I made for profit as well as part of my over head and material cost. So I didn’t sell many knives. I saw your videos and from your instructions I now make all my sheaths. Though they are not as professional as yours, they are better than the ones that I commissioned by far. Now I sell all the knives I can produce. I love knife making and until I found your KZfaq channel I was ready to give up. Now I have two enjoyable and affordable pass times, thanks too you. I thank you for your videos and all the excellent content you have supplied. Hope things even out for you and catch your second wind. You make some of the best instruction on leather working on the web.

Thank you for all of your help over the years!

Best of luck to you, Ian! Hope things will go as planned and even better.

What a story. Many families have been through a lot. So glad to hear you are coming out of it all, and still intending to make more videos. I started leatherwork and found your videos early. They have been the most instructional and thanks for the trouble of putting out the content. Much appreciated.

My prayers are with you and your family!!! Your videos have helped me a lot with my leather work. Good luck!!!

Thanks for all your help in starting my education in leathercraft. Best wishes and all the best.

Thanks so much for the update! I have learned so much from you as a leatherworker as well as a person. THANK YOU for what you have done and I look forward to continuing to observe your path forward! This was a challenging video for you to make, my condolences for your losses and I am glad to see you have a plan to move forward. Embrace your endeavors and best of wishes to you! We will keep the bell on to be sure to keep pace! I am one of those who watch your videos several times, practicing the skillset you present and continue to see something new and have ahah moments. Thanks again and carry on! Also know I concur with Vlad Moasa, close ones first!

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. I hope and pray things will get better for you.

Sorry to hear all you went thru. I went thru pretty much the same with my parents, maybe not as bad but it still sucked. YOU helped me with your leather videos immensely and I enjoy leather work when I have a chance to do it. Thank you for all you've done and WE CARE bout you brother. God bless and good luck on the new start.

Hi Ian, I just wanted to say thank you for all the content. I don't think I would have gotten started with my leatherworking hobby without you. I am very sorry to hear about everything you and your family have been through. I appreciate that you've chosen to share all this with us as viewers and I hope it's been a relief to express it. I hope that moving and setting up your new shop allows you to open a new chapter. I wish you all the best as you navigate whatever comes next.

Spot on! My parents are in their late 90’s and still living in their home here in the US. I’ve been looking after them for decades now. It’s a challenge. A couple weeks ago my proud 98 year old father told me that I was the reason he was still alive. You are a good man!

Many thanks Ian for such a moving video. You said so much that resonated with me; that video was really moving. I am so glad that you channel will continue and I will watch whatever you produce. I have learned so much from you over the years and think that you are inspiring! Wishing you all the very best.

Thank you for the heads up my friend. I've referenced you in a few of the leather groups I'm in. I hope this coming year does better for you and your family. I'm glad to hear you're keeping your head up.

I am sorry for all your troubled times but am happy to see you will still be on here. I began leather work because of you. Thanks

Thank you for sharing with us. The past couple of years have been very difficult. My condolences for you and your family. Hoping and praying for a better year and a smooth transition to your next location.

Sorry about your losses! Appreciate the update and looking forward to future videos.

You have given me a lot of inspiration and help over the years. I like your no nonsense, genuine style and the design of your leather works. Bad things tends to clump together and I keep my fingers crossed they are over for you now. I for sure will be around when you feel ready for new videos. Take care of yourself and your family.

Sorry to hear for your loses Ian. You've been an inspiration to me and many others I'm sure. Best of luck in your new adventures, looking forward to seeing your new videos when you get a chance to make them. Take care and best wishes to you and your family.

My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. I want to say thank you for all that you have done. You have impacted many lives with your videos and your knowledge of leatherworking. You have been a real inspiration. I followed one of your videos to build my first sheath for one of my custom knives I build and it came out splendidly. Thank you again for passing on your skills.

Life has been very difficult lately. And it is helpful to talk about it. You are blessed with a lot of support from people that follow you...and with similar stories of their lives. Loss is so hard. Take care of yourself.

Good to hear that you seem to be pulling through to the other side. You've had a lot to deal with and it all seemed to be very concentrated timewise. I've been through some of that too, though not all coming at once.I look forward to see the redesign and rebuilding of your new workshop, I thought from the title "Closing down the workshop" that you might have been giving up the leatherwork, but I should have had more faith in you! You bring a lot of information and inspiration to aspiring home leatherworkers and help so many along their journey. We all support you! Mike.

Thanks for the update, sorry to hear about your family. Hopefully the move will give you some fresh perspective and new goals.

Sorry to hear all that you've gone through I'm sure it wasn't east, look forward to the content you are able to put out in the future.

I love your work and wish you all the best. Thank you for sharing your expertise and inspiring us new leatherworkers to try new things. Best wishes going forward.

Ian, I’m so sorry for your loss. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors. Looking forward to seeing your new content. Be safe.

Here's wishing you strength and perseverance during these difficult times. All the best.

Wishing you all the best in your future ventures. Stay safe and look after yourself and your family.

Thank you so much for sharing about what you've experienced, Ian. It's been very tough on you and your family, and it's touching to see how much you care and love your family. Take good care of yourself and don't get stressed about creating content quickly. Am sure that many will find videos about setting up a workshop very helpful. Take care and may you find joy and peace at your new place.

Bless your heart. I’m so sorry for all your losses- I can’t even imagine. I’m glad to see that you have future plans and a new beginning after all you’ve been through. Sometimes it’s having a change ( for the good) that keeps us going. These past 2 years have been horrid for me as well- I haven’t lost loved ones but being a healthcare worker I’ve certainly lost a part of me- I’m no longer the same person. But I think about what I’d like to do in the future and that keeps me going- that, and my family. I’ll be here and looking forward to seeing whatever you want to share with us. Thank you for this video and the reminder that we all have lives outside of a video- real lives with all the good and the bad. Hang in there- you’re never alone. Sending you a big hug from an old lady in Texas...

Best of luck with your move, Ian. I have enjoyed your videos over the years with your super chill personality. I’m sorry about all of the personal losses with your family, and hope for good things to happen for you all in the future. Can’t wait to see what you will be doing.

My condolences to you and your family. I will look forward to watching you set up your next shop.

God bless to and your family hope the coming years get better for you all, looking forward to your upcoming videos

Best wishes on your move. Yes would be interested in DIY videos from your channel. Looking forward to your upcoming content. Thank you for making this video.

All I can say is I am so very sorry for your losses, and I thank you for all you taught me. Good Luck and may God bless you.

Bloody hell, that's an awful lot to deal with in such a brief time. Very best of luck with the move, and very best wishes for the years to come. I'm very much looking forward to seeing the new space develop.

Sad to here, but most of us out here have been through this as will . Good to here your not leaving hang in there it will all get better . Happy trails

That's a heck of a lot to have gone through Ian and for what it's worth you and yours have my sympathy and best wishes for the future. I'd love any content you produce on the design/construction of the new workshop as I'm looking at setting up a combined leatherwork and bookbinding area so all ideas are welcome.

So sorry for you loss. I had a similar situation and I know how hard it is. X

So sorry for how the past couple of years have gone for you and your family. Good luck with your move and I'll look forward to the videos!

Your videos have been a great help to me!

Really appreciate you sharing your story. No pressure for content from me! Keep well and safe. I'd love to see your journey if you feel up to documenting it 👍🏻💝

Thank you for finding the strength to make this video. I am so very sorry for your losses, and I wish you all the very best. Keep sharing and hold in there, much better times will come soon.

Sorry you have been through so much in the last couple years. I look forward to seeing the next generation of videos in 2022. Take care!

Bless you Ian. You have enriched our lives, and I am certain we will all be wishing the very best for you.

I send my sincere condolences Ian. That’s a lot of loss in a short time. Do what you can when you can, we’ll be here to watch. Bet of luck with the move and new shop.

Wow Ian, I'm so sorry to hear about so much sorrow insight a short time. I was wondering how your mom was coping with it all. Too much. Thank you for sharing this personal story, it certainly hits home how horrible the last couple of years have been, moreso for some than others. I just watched the video about the delay in the house. Unfortunately it sounds like more headache is in your future. Hugs from 🇨🇦.

Very sorry for your loses, and it has been a credit to you to be able to stand and keep going. Your a good man and a great leather craftsman to boot. Do what you need to do for your families future and your passions.

Take care, I hope all works out for you. You are a good person who shares his knowledge and I will always appreciate it.

Ian I’m so very sorry for your losses. You’ve been through such a difficult time. It sounds like you have made a great plan for the future and I look so forward to your new videos. I would just love to see your process of designing and creating your new shop. I will sure continue to check in. Cheers to you Ian.

God Bless you, sorry for all you been through.

Thank you for the update. I’m sorry for your losses. It sounds like you’ve got a good plan to move forward. Even with the sad news about your family it is good to hear that you’ll be returning to us and I look forward to seeing your new shop being built.

sorry about all the hard life times.. you have done good..thanks for sharing

thank you my friend with all that youve gone through you still take the time to wish every one safe and well god bless and look forward to the future with you.

Well done for coming thorough your though times Ian. I like your new ideas for your channel. Shorter videos are definitely a more manageable option. Your videos got me started on leather work many years ago and I appreciate you and your work so much. Into the future!

Ian, take care of yourself and give yourself a chance to heal emotionally. The best of luck on your move and look forward to see what you do designing a new workshop and your DIY projects. Gary from across the pond.

My condolences to you and your family on your losses. Also I would like to offer a little encouragement as you implement your plan that you describes in your video. I wish you well in your efforts to set up and continue in your new place.

I think you are very brave and strong to talk about what is happening in your life. I understand and can relate because something similar happened to me and my life around the same period.

Condolences and best of luck moving forward.

We all have new chapters in our lives. Enjoy each day, even through the difficult times. Best of blessings to you and your family.

Hang in there, life will bring brighter days. I understand what you are going through but you are doing the right thing. I love what you have done for us and wish the best.

My sincere condolences it sounds like you have been through the ringer. I know that was hard to go through and probably a hard video to make. I wish you all the best and hope that the future is bright for you and yours. You are very talented and I enjoy your videos. Sadly it seems that some people think that the KZfaq producers do have a life outside of KZfaq. Most importantly take care of yourself and those you love. do what you can when you can and we'll be here. All the Best!

I’m so sorry to hear the news. You are you one who got me into Leathercraft and I will continue review your videos when I’m struggling. I hope the best for you and if you ever start back, I will be waiting. Best of luck!

Thanks for sharing, I know they meant a lot to you.

Ian, my sincerest condolences for your losses and the pain you’ve endured. It’s a lot for a young man to deal with in such a short time. I’m sure they were very proud of the man you’ve become and felt at peace knowing you will do great in your life. You’ve already shown your giving attitude by posting your videos here on KZfaq and inspiring countless others to pick up a groover, a mallet, or thread and needle. When you began there were hardly any leather workers doing videos. There are many now- even some using your techniques. That speaks volumes. Your future vids sound great. I love your workshop style/diy vids and look forward to seeing you put up the new shop. Hang in there, young sir, and keep busy. It helps. Prayers for you and your family from Texas. Troy

Hey Buddy! Good luck with the move! I’m sorry for your losses over the past couple of years. Sounds like this is a good opportunity to make a new start.

God bless you young man. Thank you for sharing your story with us, I was deeply moved. I'm sure your grandparents were very proud of you. My deepest sympathy and thanks Ed Foxall, Cleveland, Ohio

I would like to add my condolences to everyone else’s. Be assured we will be here waiting when you get back up and running. I look forward to seeing the new shop!

So sorry for all that’s happened,there’ll be lots of good things ahead.A new start will be exciting,I’ll look forward to your coming diy videos. My husband had Covid and is in nursing home now,my brother had a stroke,Covid has a lot to answer for. You keep us going with your knowledge and passion. Wishing you every happiness in your fab new life! Xxxx

Thanks for sharing. Sorry for this hard piece of life. Remember the good times together !

Thank you for sharing, You have been through alot. Rest, and know you are blessed. Looking forward to the future you are building when you are ready to share. Blessed Be.

Hi Ian. As others have said - sorry to hear those sad stories. You are moving on in more ways than one. Glad to hear that the workshop closedown is temporary. You have been an inspiration for your leatherwork and now for the help you gave to your family. Best wishes.

Sorry for all your losses, buddy...it is something we all go through at some time and it was similar for my wife and I with our parents...now we are the old folks on the bubble...please don't worry about those who think they are entitled to your content...they generally are also the folks that use everything, but provide nothing themselves for others...not worth the energy to acknowledge them...best of luck in your future plans, will look forward to what you share as you move forward...hope for many good things for you and your family in the New Year ahead....Jim

Since December 2019 I've lost 2 dogs my grandmother and my father. It's been very hard and I sympathize with you greatly. Leather work and the leather working community has helped me cope, I've improved my skills and found great comfort in my crafts. Back in 2016 your videos and craftsmanship were one of my primary influences into the leather crafting world. I greatly appreciate your contributions, thank you.

Sorry to hear this, but totaly understand what you are going through. Life sucks sometimes I know. Give yourself time to heal. Hope to see you back online soon.

Hang in there good sir, take your time to get right. Do what you need to do we will be here when your ready and will eagerly be awaiting videos seeing your talent. Stay strong, and stay the course!

Ian, I am so sorry to hear about your family. I dont think any of us have got through the last two year unscathed. Having said that, I am also happy to hear from you. I have always enjoyed your videos, short or long, and will continue to watch them in the future. I do leatherwork as a hobby thanks to you and your videos. I hope things get better for you.

Glad to see your going to be around.

God bless you Sir. Hope things go well.

I have experienced similar situations with my grandparents and thought on more than one occasion that I was lucky that it did not happen during COVID. Take comfort in knowing that there are many in solidarity with you, KZfaq content or not. Here's to a brighter and prosperous 2022!

I’m sorry to hear what you’ve been going through. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. We are lucky to have FREE content to watch!

My Condolences for the loss of your family members. Sending love to you and yours!

God bless and Godspeed Ian. All the best to you.

I am very sorry for your losses. I look forward to seeing your new DIY videos.

Really sorry to hear about the tough times you've been through over the last couple of years. They say that moving house is one of the more stressful things you can go through, but it sounds like it may be a walk in the park compared with what you've just been through. Good luck with the move, and I look forward to seeing whatever videos you put out, whenever you can manage them. The new workshop series sounds like a great idea, but try not to overdo things by trying to get the videos out. Take whatever time you need, and we'll be here when you're ready.

Very sorry for your losses. Hopefully things are headed back in the right direction. Hang in there.

Oh Ian my heart goes out to you & your family for having to go through all that. Life and family always comes first so do not apologise for not putting out videos, grateful when you do but there is your brilliant back catalogue to work through the rest of the time. Be kind to yourself and 🤞 the house move all goes well, it sounds like a good time to do it. I hope your mum has improved, I'm sure she's hugely thankful to have you help with the bungalow.

Sorry for your losses. I look forward to hearing your new content and I hope that the bad times are behind you and things get better as you move forward. Take time and take care.l

So sorry for all you have been going through. I wish you the best in the future and your move. Look forward to seeing anything you put out for us to see. Keep the chin up brother. ❤️

Hang in there 💪🏻 look forward to the videos 👍🏻

You've had a rough couple of years. Glad that you were able to talk to your viewers about it: sorrows shared are halved. My condolences to you and your family, especially to your mum.

What a tough time. Looking after yourself must be your number one priority. Your website and video have been the source of my new hobby and I’m very grateful. I’ll look forward to your next content when it comes, but there is no rush. All the best.

First of all, I'm very sorry to hear of your losses and I hope your Mum is getting better with time. Your story is probably quite familiar for many people during these times we are going through. Our world is rapidly changing and probably not for the better. When I saw your headline about closing down your shop, I was concerned that you would be leaving leather work for good but now I see that you are leaving temporarily and will rebuild your shop soon and put out videos once again. I'm happy to hear that as your videos had a lot to do with me getting back into leatherwork during my retirement after many years of "life". I still learn from watching you and have much respect for your talents. Good luck with your new venture and know that my prayers are with you and I am looking forward to your new direction. Any DIY video subjects are welcome by me.

Id love all that content you've mentioned! You should make what's interesting for you, and on your schedule, as you've said. I hope the fresh start is healing.