Strategies and tactics for designing a comic book when you can't draw but have a story
The strategy for designing a comic book without drawing skills involves leveraging alternative resources and tools. Initially, collaborating with an artist is a viable approach. You should create a detailed project brief outlining your vision, search for artists on platforms like DeviantArt or Behance, and review portfolios to find a suitable match. Communication and clear contracts are essential steps to ensure alignment and smooth collaboration.
Another method is using comic creation software such as Clip Studio Paint or Pixton. Familiarize yourself with the software through tutorials, write detailed scripts, use templates and asset libraries, and seek feedback from peers. This approach allows for creative flexibility without needing drawing expertise.
Alternatively, you can outsource the project to a comic book creation service like Webcomics App. Research and compare services, then submit your story with specific requirements. Maintaining clear communication and providing feedback ensures the final product meets expectations. Planning a launch strategy and distributing the comic through multiple channels are crucial steps for a successful release.
The strategies
⛳️ Strategy 1: Collaborate with an artist
- Create a detailed project brief outlining your story and vision
- Search for artists on platforms such as DeviantArt, ArtStation, or Behance
- Review portfolios to find an artist whose style aligns with your vision
- Reach out to potential artists with your project brief
- Discuss project timelines and commission rates
- Establish a contract outlining rights and responsibilities
- Provide detailed scripts and storyboards to the artist
- Set up regular check-ins to monitor progress
- Give constructive feedback on initial drafts and sketches
- Ensure final artwork meets your expectations before finalising payment
⛳️ Strategy 2: Use comic creation software
- Research comic creation software such as Clip Studio Paint, Comic Life, or Pixton
- Choose a software that best fits your needs and budget
- Familiarise yourself with the software's features and tools through tutorials and guides
- Write a detailed script for each page of your comic
- Use the software's template and asset libraries to create characters and backgrounds
- Arrange panels and text to align with the flow of your story
- Experiment with different layouts and styles to find what works best
- Seek feedback from friends or online communities
- Make necessary adjustments based on feedback
- Export and save your comic in a suitable format for distribution
⛳️ Strategy 3: Outsource to a comic book creation service
- Research comic book creation services such as Webcomics App or Comics Experience
- Compare services based on cost, quality, and customer reviews
- Submit your story and any specific requirements to the service
- Discuss project timelines and deliverables with the service provider
- Provide clear and detailed instructions for each aspect of the comic
- Review initial drafts and provide feedback
- Ensure regular communication to monitor progress
- Approve final designs before printing or digital distribution
- Plan a launch strategy for your comic book release
- Distribute your comic through both digital and print channels
Bringing accountability to your strategy
It's one thing to have a plan, it's another to stick to it. We hope that the examples above will help you get started with your own strategy, but we also know that it's easy to get lost in the day-to-day effort.
That's why we built Tability: to help you track your progress, keep your team aligned, and make sure you're always moving in the right direction.
Give it a try and see how it can help you bring accountability to your strategy.
