Q&A for How to Make a Comic

If you're planning on scanning it, no. Crayons can leave some chunky parts in the place you colored, which would look strange in a scanned comic.

Of course; plenty of artists work almost exclusively on their computers.

Many writers and artists are very nervous about facing the rejection and criticism of their work; it's the equivalent of a singer performing in front of a large audience. If you don't feel it's ready, set it aside for a month or two and don't look at it; when you pull it back out and review, you'll have a bit of distance from it and mistakes stand out much better. If you feel that it represents your best efforts, step outside of your comfort zone and submit it. Know that regardless of how good your work is, there are always going to be people who don't like it; however, your critics will be the most vocal about your weak points, guiding you toward areas you can improve. In short, though, you undoubtedly created your comic because it's a passion, and the only person whose opinion about it that matters is yours.

Your comic has to succeed first. Start with one comic, then branch out from there.

You can try using Strathmore Bristol. It scans really well.

Some printers have the ability to print, scan and copy. Find one! It might be in your school (if you are a student), or perhaps at home.

If you think you're not good at drawing, you can always start with stick figures or characters that are basically shapes (for example, Ms. Triangle, Dr. Square, etc.).

Not really. It depends on your artistic vision and how you want to capture your audience's eye.

Yes, most scanners are able to produce images in color.

You can use normal paper. Do the same steps except the scanning one. You may also have to staple it to keep it together.

Of course! It's your comic, if that's the style you prefer, that's perfectly fine.

You can make a comic at any age really, but if you're a kid and you want to publish your comic professionally, you will probably need help from an adult.

Learn HTML, CSS, and Javascript and host it with 000webhost.com, or use Wix, Yola or Wordpress if you want an easier option.

Don't get your hopes up too much that the publisher will accept your comic on your first try. Rejection is just part of publishing. You can always publish the comic on your art page with tags, categories, etc. and make it free to read first in order to gain more readers.

You don't need them. You can use Google Drive, Pages, Paint.net, Microsoft Word or GIMP.

You can measure the paper with a ruler and divide it in equal segments. Then draw the lines to make the frames.

It depends on what you want the tone of the scene to be. Some artists use pages called "splash pages," which are single panels that take up an entire page in order to give the scene more impact. For normal scenes, you'll want to use multiple panels.

No, they should be spread out on many different papers.

It's good to write part of your script before drawing, but you don’t have to finish everything first. Writing the full script first helps with pacing, consistency, and planning dialogue. Writing as you go, about 10 pages ahead, allows flexibility to adjust the story while drawing. Since you have the backbone of your story, try scripting a few chapters ahead while keeping room for changes. Find what works best for you!

Here are some title ideas using "Glass" for your story about dragons and assassins: Glassfang, Shards of Glass and Fire, The Glass Assassin, Glassborn, Dragon of Glass, Glass and Shadow, Fractured Glass, The Glass Blade, Echoes in Glass, Blood on Glass.

Yes. You can print it yourself, use a service like Amazon KDP or Lulu, sell at local events, or ask comic shops if they accept self-published comics. You only need to go online if you want a bigger audience.

Start with an idea that has a clear theme or message. Create strong characters with goals and challenges. Plan the main plot with a beginning, middle and end. Add conflict to make the story interesting. Build suspense to keep readers engaged. Write the script with dialogue and key scenes. Edit and improve your story before finalizing. The best stories come from creativity and passion. If you enjoy the process, your readers are more likely to enjoy the story!

Yes. Many artists start with traditional drawing before scanning and editing. Benefits of drawing on paper include improved hand-drawing skills, the opportunity to try different art materials, and a unique, natural look. If you want to share it online, you can scan and edit it later. Keep practicing, and your comic will turn out great!

The best free alternatives to Photoshop include GIMP for Photoshop-like tools, Krita for digital painting and comics, Photopea for online use without downloading, MediBang Paint for manga, and Paint.NET for basic editing.

You only need to scan if your comic is on paper and you want a digital copy. If you just want to copy or print, you can use a photocopier to make copies or print directly from a computer if the comic is digital. Scan only if you need to edit or save it digitally before printing.

1. Plan the story with an outline. 2. Sketch small thumbnails to arrange panels. 3. Keep a consistent panel layout for easy reading. 4. Use a notebook or folder to store sketches and ideas. 5. Number pages to keep them in order. 6. Separate drafts, inks, and colored pages. 7. Use sticky notes for quick edits or changes.

You can create a comic entirely on paper. Use thick A4 or bristol board, sketch with a pencil, and plan your panel layouts. Ink with fine liners or brush pens, add speech bubbles and write text neatly. Color with colored pencils, markers, or watercolors. Let everything dry before stacking pages, then staple or bind them into a book.

Wash your hands before drawing, and use a tissue or glove under your hand to keep the paper clean. Work on a smooth, clean surface, and spray a fixative on finished pages. Erase lightly with a kneaded eraser if needed, and scan or photograph your work for a clean digital copy. Use a harder pencil like H or HB to reduce smudging.

The simplest ways to attach pages to a cover are: 1. Staple along the fold for small books. 2. Glue the edges and attach the cover. 3. Use strong tape along the spine. 4. Punch holes and tie with thread or ribbon. 5. Clip pages together inside a folded cover.

To prevent ink from bleeding in a traditional comic: use thick, smooth paper like bristol board, choose fine liners, brush pens, or waterproof ink, let ink dry before erasing pencil lines, use light strokes to avoid spreading ink, avoid applying too much ink in one spot, and test the ink on scrap paper first.