Things You'll Need:
- Pencils and pens
- Paper
- Computer
- Publishing software (optional)
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Step 1
Develop a story. Write a short synopsis of your comic strip. It doesn't have to be long and detailed. Note the key elements of your story line and where the story is going. Is it a one-shot comic strip or an ongoing strip? Think visually as you write. You'll tell the story primarily through visuals and dialog.
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Step 2
Sketch out the basic image progression of your comic strip. Use a ruler to section off the panels for you comic strip. The panels should ideally be 3 by 5 inches. Make them slightly larger to accommodate a thin border around each panel if you want one. Have your story text in front of you as you draw the scene of each panel, deciding what text bubbles you will include in your comic strip. Don't worry so much about the look of your illustrations at this time. This step is about laying out the story.
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Step 3
Detail the artwork for your comic strip. If you can't draw, find a partner who is good at it. If you aren't a writer, find someone who is skilled at developing a story through words. Do it all if you're capable. Decide now if this is going to be a black-and-white or a color strip. If it will be black-and-white, now is the time to do the shading and detail enhancement of your panel illustrations. If you're using color, now is the time to finish detailing the panels and applying color.
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Step 4
Apply text to your panels, whether it's short description or bubble text. You can pencil in the text if you're good enough to do it that way, or you can scan your strip into the computer and open it in Microsoft Word or Movie Magic screenwriter. Screenwriter actually has a template for doing comic strips and storyboards. You won't be using all of the text you wrote. Use what fits your images.
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Step 5
Write the title of your strip above it along with the names of the writer and artists. You can present your script completely hand drawn, or you can use the computer to print it. Graphics editing software is a good way to touch up any imperfections. You can even create and print your comic strips free online (see Resources below). The finished comic strip can be stapled together or bound at a professional printer for presentation.
