How to Start a Webzine

You can start a webzine from your home computer.

Starting your own webzine can be a lot of fun or create a lot of profit. Whether you want to entertain readers with quality fiction, display artwork, share informational reports, or sell products or services, a webzine is a good choice. Learn how to create a webzine and attract subscribers.

Things You'll Need

• Website hosting
• Domain name
• Website template or design
• Email newsletter service
• PDF converter (optional)
• Newsletter HTML template (optional)

Instructions

1. Register a domain name that pertains to the topic of your webzine. If you intend to title the webzine something, use that for the domain name. Point the domain name to a website hosting account of your choice.

2. Design the website for the webzine. Not only should it explain what the webzine is about, it should also have a sign up or subscription form, a publishing schedule and information for potential advertisers. If you will solicit submissions from freelance writers or artists, include a page that outlines what you will accept, price structures and what rights you are purchasing.

3. Set up an automatic email message when someone fills out the subscription form on your website. This email should include opt-in information, an anti-spam message and a friendly welcome to the webzine itself. This is most often done with an email autoresponder service or a newsletter management program. It is important to send out this initial email to new subscribers so they are aware they are on the list.

4. Gather the materials for each edition of the webzine from your own writing, freelance writing submissions or free-to-use articles and reports found on the internet. Provide quality information to your subscribers to ensure they will not cancel. Each webzine issue should include multiple articles or stories. You can also include graphic artwork, reviews and advertisements.

5. Design an HTML coded webzine template, choose a free one or have one designed. Most internet users can view HTML-based email. However, you may like to create both an HTML webzine and a plain text variety. Keep the design simple and neat to reduce load time for your subscribers.

6. Compile the webzine for every issue by inserting the articles and reports, stories and poems, artwork and advertisements in the HTML or plain text template. Include unsubscribe information at the bottom of each issue, as well as anti-spam information and your name and address as required by the Cann-Spam act.

7. Load each webzine issue into your email newsletter broadcasting program or service and send it out to your opt-in list subscribers. If possible, set up your email service to check for bouncing email addresses or non-deliverable messages. Delete these from your list every month.

Tips & Warnings

• Always include unsubscribe information in every webzine issue.

• Maintain a regular webzine schedule.

• Weed the bouncing or expired email addresses from your subscriber list.

• Avoid including too many advertisements to avoid spam complaints.