How to make a comic
from scratch
Everything you need to know to create your own comic: how to make a comic step by step, the elements it is made of, how to put a comic book together and where to publish it.
How is a comic made?
A comic is made by combining sequential drawings with text inside panels to tell a visual story. Although the process varies depending on the style and the medium —traditional or digital—, every comic shares the same basic structure: script, sketches, inking, color and lettering.
Knowing how to create comics doesn't require being an expert: with the right tools you can make your first comic for free, on your phone or computer, and publish it online for the whole world to read. In this guide you'll find everything you need to make comics from scratch.
⚡ What you need to get started
- An idea or a story
- Paper and pencil or a digital app
- Knowing the basic elements
- Something you want to tell
How to make a comic: the process at a glance
Create the story
Define characters, conflict and story arc. Read the guide →
Write the script
Describe scenes, dialogue and actions. Read the guide →
Draw and lay out
Sketches, panels, color and lettering. Read the guide →
Publish
Share your comic with the world. Read the guide →
How do you want to make your comic?
Pick the guide that best fits your level, tools and goals.
Start making your comic today
You can make your comic on any device, for free and without signing up.
Make a comic online for free
Our comic maker works on PC, phone or tablet with nothing to install: panels, bubbles, sound effects and PDF or PNG download.
Make my comicBlank comic pages to print
If you prefer drawing by hand, print a panel template and scan it later to finish it in the editor.
Download templatesComic ideas with a script
Topics with a sample script that open straight in the editor, so you only add your drawings.
See ideasLearn every part of making comics
Master the key areas to create quality comics.
What people ask us most
Answers to the most common questions about making comics from scratch.
Is your comic ready?
Publish your comic and reach thousands of readers
Discover the best platforms to self-publish your comic online, from Webtoon to Manga Plus Creators.
How do you make a comic? A quick guide
How to make a comic is one of the most common questions among people who want to get into comics. The short answer: plan first, draw later. The story is the engine; the art is the vehicle.
1. Define your story and characters
Before you draw a single panel, you need to know who your protagonist is, what they want and what stands in their way. A solid story is the foundation of any good comic. Learn to create the story for your comic and to design comic characters with depth.
2. Write the script
A comic script describes what happens in each panel, what the characters say and how the page is laid out. There is no single format, but its purpose is clear: to tell the artist —even if that's you— exactly what needs to be drawn. Visit our guide on how to write a comic and how to write a comic script.
3. Lay out the panels
The elements of a comic —panels, speech balloons, captions, sound effects and framing— are the language of comics. Learn how to use them in our guide to comic composition and elements. Composition sets the reading pace and the visual impact of every page.
4. Choose your method: traditional or digital
Making comics by hand is still a valid and very rewarding option. All you need is paper, pencil, ink and patience. If you prefer digital, there are programs like Clip Studio Paint or MediBang, or you can make your comic online on your computer or phone without installing anything.
