10 Helpful Art Hints for Would-be Webcomic Artists

[roseembolism]

1. The is the big one. DON'T use an anime/manga style as an excuse to not learn how to draw. It won't work. This isn't a slam on the anime/manga style: I read a number of strips where the artist has integrated those stylistic elements into their own style. But, they learned how to draw FIRST.

2: The above also goes for American Comic Book styles.

3: Don't try a really sketchy/scratchy style to conceal your lack of drawing skill. Jules Fieffer you are not.

4. I repeat: unless you're going for sprites, photos or abstract art, learn to draw FIRST. Put the damn "How to Draw" books away, and attend some art classes.

5. If you can't draw hands, see #2. Hiding the hands behind backs or off panel won't work.

6. Don't think computer coloring will save you. MS Paint won't compensate for bad art.

7. If the only way you can tell the characters apart is their hairstyles, rethink your character concepts. or see #2.

8. Likewise, if putting the characters into different outfits renders them unrecognizable, see #2.

9. As far as using 3-D wireframe or CGI programs? Just don't. Read up on the Uncanny Valley, and just leave it alone.

10. Don't restart the strip every time you learn to draw better. OK, once may work, if it's not too far along. But not more than once.