One of my classes has been really pushing me to try things that I have never tried before. Like writing poems, making this website, reading comic books… and making comic books. I thought for a while that I probably wouldn’t be very good at it. Especially since I go through lots of paper each day just trying to draw basic things, not things that are supposed to tell an entire story! Okay, if you're freaking out like me. I’m here to tell you that it actually isn’t that hard…
There are so many sites out there today that can help both you and I express our creativity, it’s utterly crazy. A few great sites that I have found are https://www.canva.com/. It’s free, and I’ve actually used it a couple of times to make flyers, illustrate my first children's books, and now make little comic strips! Then there is also, https://www.designhill.com/studio/editor/105/edit#. It has easy signup and honestly, I haven’t used it very much, but it’s given me a few kind subscription emails that keep on reminding me that it’s still there.
Anyway, what are some of the steps to get yourself involved in comic books? As I mentioned before, there is a whole bunch of sites out there to get you started. Research is key to a whole bunch of things… I mean, why do people watch youtube… okay, most of the time not to learn stuff, but to waste time… that might have been a bad example… But still…
Be sure to check out:
The 8-step guide to creating and publishing your own comic book,
By Tammy Coron: published July 28, 2015
How to Create a Comic Book: Neil Gaiman’s Step-by-Step Guide for Making Comics
By Written by the MasterClass staff: Last Updated, Aug 9, 2021
How To Create A Comic Book
By Paul@Lulu: Published April 26, 2019
Just like anything, projects can be difficult. Especially when it comes to art. Comics are all art, some words, and expression. Think about the times in the past when you read a comic book or a page of comics in the newspaper, what did you gather? Were you easily able to understand what was happening while you were reading those sloppy pictures? Cartoon characters can be drawn in so many different ways and styles. Some of these styles would be Old Cartoon Drawing styles (like your average Mickey Mouse and Betty Boop.) Modern Cartoon styles. (like The Power Puff Girls.) Manga and Anime, Chibi drawings, Minimalist Cartoon Art Styles, Modern Disney ( Leo and Stich, The Princess and the Frog, etc.) and so, so, so, so much more. You can read more about some of the ones I listed and even more at 25 Types Of Cartoon Drawing Styles With Examples!, by Don Corgi.
“Tricking’ your readers is also a part of comic book writing. Don’t get caught up on all of the tiny details. Think of a Crow in a field, he sees a scarecrow, but what he doesn’t know is that scarecrow is something made just for him, it’s straw, some rocks, buttons, and totally fake. As long as that scarecrow is there, the crows won’t come and ruin the crops right? Having consistency in your pictures, your narrative, your passion, and your style is very important when it comes to writing comic books. If your comic book character has a yellow shirt, then you should always draw him in a yellow shirt. Think of Charlie Brown and Calvin, from Calvin and Hobbs.
Also, practicing, practicing, and practicing, can also get you on the right track to graphic comic books. There is lots of freedom in this kind of genre. So, just do a little homework, look at other people's examples, and just start!
~Happy Comic Book Making!
-Lily. J. Troutman
This article beautifully captures the journey of diving into comic book creation, even when it feels daunting at first. The writer emphasizes the importance of practice, consistency, and research, offering valuable resources and encouraging readers to explore their creativity. It's a relatable and inspiring read for anyone looking to express themselves through comics, regardless of experience. Check our website for fake diplomas