How to Start a Webcomic: A Guide
Guest Writer: ThePurpleGriffin / Jan Vasquez
Note: This article was written to benefit from the Discount Deal.
Step 4: Take Breaks And Find A Schedule That Fits You!
Ah yes, the dreaded schedule problem. We already discussed the “who” and the “what”, so now comes the “when”. How often should you work on your comic? Should you post a page every month? Every two weeks? Every weekend?
This is especially tricky because, as artists, we cannot create content in accordance with a perfect routine. School, work, family, and other interests come first. We are not robots; life throws obstacles at us, and we are not always the best at managing our time or fulfilling our promises.
So, I highly suggest that you always, always give your mind some time to breathe. Don’t work on your comic exclusively, or else you will burn out. Instead, draw and post artwork in between the comic pages, giving yourself a break while also giving your audience some background information and other art to enjoy.
For my comic, I like to use what I call the “Three Posts Strategy”. For every TGQ:CC page I make, I draw and post three illustrations before releasing the next one.
Each of the three posts can be whatever I want, whether it be a character reference, illustration, or even a mini comic. This way, I am not bound by times or dates, but by productivity.
Here is a visual of my DeviantART gallery to illustrate. Highlighted in red are my webcomic pages, and everything in between is a drawing that is usually related to Graveyard Quartet lore.
The best part about this strategy is that I can “break” and “repair” the three-post streak if necessary. For instance, if a holiday or event calls for a fourth illustration, then I make it, post it, and then for the next round, offer only two illustrations in between the comic pages.
This tactic has kept me motivated and sane for over a year, so I highly suggest trying it out. If it does not work for you, though, then don’t force yourself to conform to it. Just find something that makes you comfortable, allows for some rest, and keeps your audience aware that your project is still ongoing.
Next week TPG will talk about about keeping your project fun - for you, as much as for everyone else.
~Hayley
Credits
The Graveyard Quartet and the Crowned Corvids and blog post wording by ThePurpleGriffin. See her TGQ:CC gallery or check out her official Instagram
Title image by ThePurpleGriffin and used with her kind permission.
