How to Make Your Own Magazine on the Computer

Magazines can be created online.

With the expansion of the Internet comes many opportunities for creative people interested in publishing. Similar to self-publishing a book, magazine writers and editors can self-publish a magazine online using different online magazine building websites. All the magazine creator needs is the publication's content, a computer and the desire to reach the public.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. 

   OpenZine allows users to create an entire magazine online.

   OpenZine is a publishing platform that allows magazine creators to design their own magazines, complete with a cover and inside content. The service is free and enables users to place content with a simple click of their mouse. OpenZine allows users to choose a layout simply by adding text and content. Users can upload images, and create the magazine's cover by using their cover designer.

   There are video modules that provide help for the designer.

2. 

   Issuu is an award-winning magazine platform site.

   Award-winning Issuu.com allows users to upload content and create a digital magazine. Users save the magazine's contents as a PDF, and then upload the document. Issuu then converts them into a whole digital magazine. Viewers can flip through pages, zoom in on images and text and read about the magazine. Issuu also connects with social media sites to help users promote their magazine. Issuu provides help modules that explain how users can create the magazine using their platform.

3. 

   Magazine creators can make their magazines interactive with Calameo.

   Calemeo is another magazine creator. The user can upload their PDF, Open Office, Text Files, Microsoft Word Files and other kinds of documents onto the Calameo magazine editor. Calameo then lays it out digitally---all for free. The user can also embed links, videos and sounds into their magazine for an interactive viewer experience.

References

• OpenZine: Create a magazine for free.
• Issuu: Publish in a format designed to make your documents look their very best
• Calameo: Publish and share your documents and embed audio and video.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Magazine Publishers of America: The industry association for consumer magazines