Becca Hillburn's Blog, page 10

Weekly Art Stream

If you enjoy my art, my art supply reviews, or my tutorials,then you need to join me for Power Hour!



What's Power Hour?Free sketch requestsDrawing DemosArt supply rafflesArt Supply Demos

Power Hour is my weekly artstream over on Youtube!  We begin at 8PM, and where the evening goes is up to you!  Want me to draw your character live on air?  We can make that happen!  Interested in learning a new drawing technique?  Shout it out!  Want to see a product demonstration?  Let me know, I can probably make it happen.  Power Hour is our opportunity to hang out, get to know one another, and maybe learn something new!

Power Hour's gone on for three weeks now, so I feel like we've hit a good rhythm and I'm finally ready to announce it to the masses!



You can make sure you never miss a Power Hour by subscribing to my Channel and hitting the little bell notification!

Missed our first three streams?  Here're the highlights!

Week 1


Alcohol marker doodleSketch RequestsSurface Design DemonstrationZebra Mechanical Pencil Demonstration









Week 2



Sketch RequestAlcohol Marker CommissionCut paper demonstration





Week 3



Sketch RequestFigure Drawing DemoMulti-color pencil DemoWatercolor Confections Watercolor SwatchesWatercolor Confections RaffleSucculent Painting Demo








Sounds amazing?  Then join us tomorrow night at 8PM, over on my Youtube! 
Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Choose Your Own Adventure- Watercolor Edition

One of the magic things about using watercolor for illustration and comics is that it's a bit like choosing your own adventure.  Do you want to use hot press or cold press?  Cellulose or cotton rag?  Do you want to dive straight in to watercolor, sketch with a pencil, print out bluelines, or ink?  Every choice can yeild a different results, and it's helpful to know what your options are.

Today, we're going to talk about different types of finish for your watercolors.  How you want to create your lineart (or whether you want a lineart at all!) can drastically change the end aesthetic of your comics and illustrations.  Below are a few of my favorite methods.

Inks

Method:
Graphite pencil, brushpen, then erase the graphite.  Paint.

Inks that Work:
Waterproof India Inks (make sure they say waterproof on the bottle)
Acrylic Inks
Pigment Based Inks
Ink Used:  Sakura Pigma Professional FB brushpen (pigment based)
End Result:


Other Examples of Inked Watercolors:





Pencils

Method:
Printed bluelines, then tight pencils.  Paint.

Recommended Leads:
HB or harder



End Result:




Other Examples of Penciled Watercolors:




Method:
Graphite pencil sketch.  Paint

End Result:

Method:
Graphite Transfer.  Paint.  'Inking' with paint.

End Result:



Colored Leads

Method:
Colored Lead.  Paint.

Colored Leads that Work:
Color Eno Leads
Harder, waxed based color pencils

"Lineless" Watercolor Style:



End Result:


Other Examples of "Lineless" Watercolor:






Inking After Painting:

Method:  Sketch illustration.  Paint.  Ink accents.

Any ink will work with this method, so long as you aren't adding water again.


End Result:

Other Examples of Inking After Painting:





Straight to Watercolor

Process: Sketch directly with watercolor, focusing on mark making and shapes.

See:  Chinese watercolor, Japanese sumi-e, loose floral watercolors





I hope this has inspired you to try various methods of 'finish' with your own watercolor art and illustration!  If you're looking for more inspiration, make sure you check out my Watercolor Basics series, here and on Youtube.
Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Getting To Know: Traditional Comic Materials

What's In My Pencilcase-2018 Edition


Every artist has their preferred tools, but some basics are pretty common from artist to artist.

Basics:

Erasers
Pencils
Ruler
Paper

From left to right: White Stroke eraser, Color Eno (Pink), Color Eno (Soft Blue), Mono Knock Eraser, Pentel Icy (HB lead), Pentel Graph Gear 1000 (B lead) Clear, gridded acrylic ruler, Prismacolor Color Pencil

As an artist, you will eventually develop your own preferences, but hopefully this post can get you off to a strong start!

Pencils

Pencils used to pencil thumbnails and roughs-Pentel Graph Gear 1000 with Staad Pencil Grip, Pilot Color Eno
Pencils and Erasers used for thumbnails and roughs stages of comics
Generally, I prefer mechanical and drafting pencils to wooden, as I hate taking time to sharpen my pencil, and I hate dull leads!  I prefer Japanese brands to American brands, as Japanese stationery brands tend to be better designed and better built.  However, you can find many Japanese brands even at your local Walmart- Pentel, Zebra, and Uni are all commonly carried.

The exception in my preference comes down to sketching and warmups- for warmups and doodles, I prefer using colored pencils, and frequently use Prismacolor pencils in warm earthtones such as terra-cotta.

What's the difference between Drafting Pencils and Mechanical Pencils?

Mechanical Pencils:

Mechanical pencils can be made from a variety of materials (wood, plastic, metal), and frequently, but not always, feature refillable, replacable lead.  They may feature back, side, shake, or even twist advancement of the lead.  Mechanical pencils provide a consistent lineweight without need for sharpening.

Drafting Pencils:

Often drafting pencils fall into the category of mechanical pencils, but not always.  Lead holders, which are a type of drafting pencil, are not mechanical pencils, and are desigend with a clutch mechanism to hold larger leads (1mm-2mm).

'Drafting pencil' often refers to a metal bodied mechanical pencil with a back advancement.  Popular materials include brass and aluminum.  Drafting pencils often have knurled metal grips, which can damage your hands, and have no give in the body, which can lead to arthritis over time.

Drafting pencils feature a metal lead sleeve, which protects the lead when it's advanced, and prevents breakage.  Many drafting pencils also feature a spring mechanism that acts as a shock absorber- a handy feature for those of us who are heavy handed.  Many drafting pencils also include an eraser cap, and a lead indicator, which can be manually changed depending on the lead used.

Lead Holders: 

Lead holders hold larger leads (1mm-2mm) that may require sharpening with a lead pointer.  Lead holders are all clutch mechanism (a jawed pressure clamp that holds the lead in place), and are typically metal bodied.

I'm Using:

Pilot Color Eno Mechanical Pencil (.7mm, soft pink and soft blue, used for underdrawing)
Pentel Icy (.7mm, contains HB lead, used for sketching)
Pentel Graph Gear 1000, with a Staad pencil grip (.7mm, B lead, used for tight pencils)

Leads
Mechanical pencils paired with the leads used in them.  Left to Right: Muji Mechanical Pencil, Pentel Red Lead, Pentel Graph Gear 1000, Pentel Ain B lead, Pentel Icy, Pentel Hi Polymer H lead, Pilot Color Ino, Pilot Color Eno Soft Blue Lead
If you're using mechanical pencils or drafting pencils, then you're also going to be using leads.  Many pencils come with refills, but as an artist, you may wish to branch out and find your own preferred materials.

Why Non Photo Blue?

Non photo blue (and other colored leads) are frequently used by artists for underdrawing and sketching.  Sketching in a colored lead makes it easy to differentiate between construction and details you wish to keep, and you can pencil over these colored leads, ink, or even go straight to watercolor or alcohol marker.

Originally NPB would not scan or photo copy (hence the non photo part).  These days, scanners are much more sophisticated, and will pick up NPB, but it's easy to digitally drop light colors such as pink, light blue, and especially yellow.  I have tutorials on this blog on how to drop the blues.

I'm Using:

Pentel Hi Polymer HB Lead
Pentel HiPolymer B Lead
Color Eno Soft Blue Lead
Pentel .5mm Red Lead

Colored Pencils

Commonly Used:

Palomino Blackwing Pencils
Palomino 602
Palomino Blackwing Pearl

Col-Erase Colored Pencils (light blue)
Caran d'Ache Sketcher

I'm Using:

Prismacolor Color Pencils- Terra Cotta 

Erasers
Left to Right:  Pentel Clic Erase, Tombow Mono Knock Eraser, Tombo Zero Eraser, Creative Mark White Stroke
When selecting erasers, I want erasers that will:

Not Tear Up My PaperNot Cause Ghosting with My InkDon't Smear
I've tried a lot of erasers over the years, and while I rotate what I use, I do have some favorites that I hope you guys will check out!

I'm Using: 

Pentel HiPolymer Eraser
Mono Eraser
White Stroke Eraser
Moo Eraser
Mono Knock Eraser
Pentel Ain Eraser
Mono Zero 
Pentel Click Erase

Everyday Carry


This just refers to the case you use for your daily use art supplies!  This is going to vary heavily from artist to artist, and I have several great recommendations in my 2018 Comic Artist Gift Guide.  I'm using a Nomadic pencil case that doesn't seem to be commonly available anymore.

So those are my basic, everyday comic supplies!  Keep an eye on this blog for more detailed, deeper dives into my comic artist supplies!

Resources Used:
Mechanical Pencil (Wikipedia)
How A Drafting Pencil Works
Ink and Graphite- What is a drafting pencil?
Cult Pens: Guide to Mechanical Pencils
Jackson's Art:  Why Use a Clutch Pencil
Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Promoting a Class or Workshop

I've talked about my Making Comics class a fair bit in the past couple weeks.  I know those of you not in the greater Nashville area are probably a bit tired of the promo posts, so I thought I would talk about it in another way- today I'm going to chat about the promotional aspects of recruiting students for a class.




I'm not new to workshops or panels.  I've taught workshops and panels, in various formats, since my SCAD days back in 2010.  And for every workshop or panel I host, I have to promote the event- usually through this blog, my Tumblr, Twitter, occasionally through Facebook, and increasingly through Instagram.  When I'm promoting a panel that's tied to a convention, often I just need to tag the convention in those promotional posts for a quick reblog.  Attendees often check the con's hashtag to find out about events- so much of the promotion is done organically.  Conventions don't have a minimum number of attendees as a prerequisite for hosting a panel, so I don't have to worry about registration or filling the room.


Panels and workshops for libraries can be a bit different.  These do require a bit more promotion- after all, a full class shows the library that comic content is worth hosting, and some libraries are more reticent than others.  Depending on the area I'm teaching in, I'll start posting about it to my Facebook, particularly if I'm hosting a workshop or panel in an area where I've tabled before.  Historically, my promotion has been entirely online, and without use of paid advertising.



Building an audience, and audience retention, are two areas I've always struggled with.  For some reason, repeat business has never been robust enough for me to relax a little- every event- be it a workshop, a panel, or a sales event- requires my A game.  Promoting my second iteration of Making Comics required me to up my A game another level- my AA game if you will.  This came as a bit of as shock to me, as my first iteration- Making Comics and Zines, hit the minimum number of registered students quickly, and continued to fill from there, whereas I'm ten days away from class starting, and I only hit my minimum number this morning.


However, hit my minimum I did, and with ten days to spare, so today, I want to share my process for filling a class when the stars are not in your favor.


Last Semester:

Wrote a blog post for Nashville Community Education's BlogRecorded an interview for their Youtube channel, based on provided questionsParticipated in an Instagram 'takeover' of the NCE Instagram accountCreated a graphic and shared it to Twitter, Instagram, FacebookCreated a Facebook group for the classTabled at NCE's Open House event- an outdoor event that coincided with a farmer's market, on a beautiful late summer day, handed out copies of the class syllabusTabled at Handmade and Bound and handed out fliers to interested parties



This Semester:


No tabling events where I could promote my class in person- I think this is why I struggled to get students enrolledHave not had the opportunity to participate in an NCE Instagram takeover, but have been mentioned in their Stories a few timesWrote a blog post for NCE's blog


Promoting the Class:

Generally tried to think outside my usual social media audience, most of whom don't seem to be in Nashville or New Orleans, and tried to better connect with my local scene.

Blog Content:

Learn How to Tell Stories Visually with Becca Hillburn
Exciting News for Making Comics and Zines

Other Promotion: 

Posting regularly to Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook
Created a Facebook Event
Posted to Next Door Neighbor, and created an Event for the class
Posted about class on LinkedIn

Creating Videos:

Making Comics Class Preview:


Exciting News about my Nashville Comic Class:


Comic Cuties- Sketch and Inks:





Distributing Fliers and Handsouts:

Jerry's Artarama
Starbucks at 2525
Starbucks on West End
PlaZa Art Supplies
Rick's Comic City
Wake Up to Comics (at The Groove)
Nashville Public Library- Downtown branch and branch near the Cohn School
Three Brothers/Cumberland Transit

*Nashville Public Library (downtown) branch originally resisted putting up fliers, as the class has a cost, but I pursued the matter until it was resolved.  Since my class is through Nashville Community Ed, another Metro department, and since it's held through a not for profit organization, we eventually worked something out.  If you're promoting a class through community ed, don't be afraid to pursue it.
** Library near Cohn School was eager to put out the fliers, and excited about the class.  Don't let one library's reticence get you down

*** Cost goes to reimbursing NCE for materials, and reimbursing me for materials.  Nobody's really making a profit on this class.

Requesting a Signal Boost:

Emailed one of the professors at Watkins School of Art regarding the class.  She organizes Handmade and Bound, and said she'd tell her students/make sure the ad got in the upcoming newsletter

Asked Nashville Scene, NashvilleFun, NashvilleTN and various other Nashville Twitter accounts to retweet the information.  Only MTAC responded- and they were generous enough to retweet it to their audience.  Don't be afraid to nag- many outlets make their bread and butter talking about local events (that's their news), but may balk at comics.  Ain't nothin wrong with comics, and don't let them tell you otherwise.

Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube Ads:

Facebook and Instagram- $1 day limit, shown to people ages 13 and up, men and women, within 20 miles of Nashville
Youtube Ad- Making Comics Class Preview

Note:  Neither Facebook or Youtube ads really resulted in any clicks (just one, with Facebook), but repetition and visibility are important.  They say someone has to see something seven times online before they'll click it once, so it's about building recognition.



So what worked?

Honestly, who knows.  If I had to put my money on it, I'd say getting out there and putting out fliers is probably what made the biggest impact.  I tried to select places carefully- places where comic people like to hang out, places where aspiring artists absorb the atmosphere.  Many of these fliers were takeaways- small, hand cut fliers they can take with them to remember to sign up, but quite a few were larger fliers.  Once the class starts, I'll ask them how they found out about the class, and use that to prepare my promotion for next semester.

Advice:


Don't get discouraged!  Businesses have a right to reject your request, but many are happy to share information about local classes.Get out there and paper the streets!  Hit up your local favorites- art supply stores, coffee shops, and ask if they'll put up fliersIt helps to buy- even something small, like a coffeeIf a library says no- ask why!  Maybe the rational is solid, but sometimes the librarian you're talking to doesn't feel like putting in the effort.  If they wont help you, ask to speak to someone who might.Many librarians are excited about comics- if the person you're talking to isn't into it, ask to speak to someone on staff in charge of teen reading, or in charge of the graphic novel section.  Find allies through common interests!If you're promoting a class taught through a school, don't be afraid or ashamed to ask them for help and ideas as wellDon't rely on your online audience- who may be all across the globe- think local!Be friendly when asking, explain the class, explain the organization hosting it, and be grateful when people say yes!  If they say no, you can either pursue it (like with the libraries) or shrug it off and thank them for their time (businesses).  Nobody owes you anything, but you owe it to yourself to do your best! Still interested in taking Making Comics?  There's still time, register today!
Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Exciting News for Making Comics and Zines

I'm super excited about Making Comics this winter!  I just had an awesome meeting with Nashville Community Ed and Wake Up To Comics, a local comic shop, and I have some exciting class developments to share!





So this is all still the same: It's $69 for all six classes (so about $10 and some change per class) Classes is 6-9PM on Thursdays at the Cohn School in Room 112Classes begin January 24th and continue until February 28th.  Class ends with a minicomic and zine exchange.You can register through Nashville Community Ed here.NCE now has scholarships available!  Learn more
But now:Wake Up to Comics is a Making Comics sponsor.  This means more and better class materials for registered students!Bonus seventh class (the zine/minicomic exchange!) at The Groove, in East Nashville, home of Wake Up to ComicsAnyone 16 and older can take the class with parental consent, anyone 13 and older can take class if a parent is also registered for Making Comics. Class six of Making Comics and Zines- the minicomic/zine exchange!
Minicomics and zines produced by students
Ok, so what can I expect?Basic class materials- pencils, paper, pens- will be provided for you, but you're welcome to use whatever you're comfortable with!  Instructor will provide brushes, nibs, inks, and various papers for students to experiment withExpect to produce 8 pages of content- either a comic, a zine, or a combination of the two.  More is great, but we're aiming for 8 pages.Expect to keep a sketchbook during classBe prepared to share your work in class and online for feedback and comic/resource recommendations (if you are not comfortable doing this, please let me know.  You're still welcome, I'll just make a note not to ask you to share your work in class)Access to a large library of zines, comics, and art resource books available to borrowInstructor (me!) will handle printing materials, so you don't need access to a printer, but access to a scanner will be helpful.  No scanner?  Let me know- we can arrange somethingClass ends with a Bonus seventh class- a zine exchange at The Groove!  Students will enjoy snacks, exchange zines, and enjoy one another's work.Join the Nashville comic/zine community- students stay in contact after class has endedHow does this differ from Making Comics and Zines (Fall 2018)
While students are welcome to make zines during class, the focus is primarily on comic craft and making comics.
Low on funds but want to apply?  NCE has scholarships available! 
So now I have a favor to ask of you!  Please, please, please share this information- on Twitter, on Facebook, wherever you think it might reach someone who might be interested!  We're aiming for a full class.
Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Top 10 Art Products of 2018

Top 10 Art Products of 2018




Note:  These aren't necessarily products that were released in 2018, but rather my favorite products in 2018.

Qor Mini Palette



Qor Travel Watercolor Palette
$59.99 on Blick

Da Vinci Mixing Set



Da Vinci Mixing Palette
$56.00 on Jerry's Artarama

Blick Studio Brush Markers and Refills



Blick Studio Brush Markers
Starting at $2.96 on Blick

Refills
$3.99 on Blick

Paint Pucks


Paint Pucks
$3.99 on Blick

Pentel Pigment Brushpens




Pentel Pigment Brushpens
$6.50 on Amazon

HomeAid Magnetic Watercolor Palette




HomeAid Magnetic Palette
$10.99 on Amazon

Color Eno Colored Lead and Pencils




Color Eno Lead-Pink
$7.88 on Amazon
Color Eno Colored Lead Pack
$20.75 on Amazon

Pentel Dye Based Brushpens



Individual Brushpens
Prices vary on Amazon
Pentel Dye Based Brushpens
$99.90 for all 18 on Amazon


Blick Premier Watercolor Paper

o 

Blick Premiere Watercolor Paper
Starting at $14.25 on Blick

Dr PH Martin's Bleedproof White




Dr PH Martin's Bleedproof White
$11.99 on Amazon

Honorable Mentions:



Arthritis Compression Gloves:
$11.99 on Amazon

ACE Sleeping Wrist Brace:
$17.75 on Amazon




Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Learn How to Tell Stories Visually With Becca Hillburn

Hey Nashville area Artnerds- I'm at it again with another six week comic course hosted through Nashville Community Ed!  In Making Comics, you'll have the opportunity to flex your writing and drawing muscles in a safe, encouraging environment.

I'm thrilled to be able to offer another six week comic class aimed at anyone 18+ interested in learning more about cartooning, comics, or making zines. 

It's $69 for all six classes (so about $10 and some change per class) Classes is 6-9PM on Thursdays at the Cohn School in Room 112Classes begin January 24th and continue until February 28th.  You can register through Nashville Community Ed here.
Learn how to turn your story ideas into scripts, your scripts into thumbnail sketches, and your thumbnail sketches into finished comic pages in this six week course!  


If you've always wanted to learn how to make your own comics, or are interested in learning more about visual storytelling, Making Comics is a perfect introductory course designed to get you producing comics.  

Over six weeks, you'll learn

ScriptingPlanning and Designing CharactersEnvironmentsDrawing within the panelThe Comic Production ProcessTraditional Inking TechniquesAssembling your printed comic into a mini
For students interested in a deeper dive, there are additional materials for the course from the instructor available online via blog posts and Youtube videos.
Course materials provided by NCE included Strathmore Bristol, Sakura Micron Technical Pens, Sakura Pigma Professional Brush Pens, and Color Eno blue lead
Last semester, Nashville Community Ed provided

SketchbooksMechanical PencilsRed and Blue leadsGraphite leadsBristol boardTechnical PensBrushpens
for students to use to make their own comics and zines. I augmented this by bringing in loads of amazing art resources- zines, comics, how to draw reference books, printing out student bluelines, providing ink, brushes, and nibs during our inking demonstration, as well as laying out and printing minicomics and zines for the zine exchange. For Making Comics, I hope to offer the same range of materials and hope to improve the overall class experience by spending more time on demonstration, less time on explanation. For students interested in a deeper dive, I have resource lists, art books, and tutorials on hand to augment each class.


During this class we’re going to cover:

Storytelling and plot pacingScriptingBasic Human Anatomy for cartooningAn Introduction to perspective for backgrounds and environmentsAn Exploration of traditional inking materials
Students will have the opportunity to plot, plan, write, draw, ink, and assemble their own mini-comics and zines using materials provided by Nashville Community Ed, myself, or their personal tools of choice.


Even if you're already making comics, this class provides an excellent opportunity to meet other comic artists, create comics in a friendly setting, hone your skills, and seek critique.   Feel free to work at your own pace in a welcoming environment, or work along with the structure of the class.



Not an artist?  Fear not--this class is geared to be useful for beginners as well as more experienced artists.  If you need additional help or resources, I’m available via email during the semester, and there’s a Facebook group to facilitate critique and growth during and even after class. Classes are recorded and uploaded to Youtube, then shared with students after class, in case anyone missed class, or missed some of the material covered.


Class ends with a mini comic exchange--every student will get a copy of their classmates' comics, learn a bit about zine and mini comic culture, and find about about further opportunities for creating comics. We'll read one another's minis, practice our elevator pitches, and discuss further zine and mini comic opportunities in the Greater Nashville Area.
About Me
I hold an MFA in comics from SCAD, have almost a decade of experience teaching comics in classes, workshops, panels, over Youtube, and through my blog, have made comics for over two decades, and have work in nearly a dozen anthologies.  I've self published the first volume of my watercolor comic, self distributed it, released it as a webcomic, and am working on finishing up the second volume for a Kickstarter release, and make new zines every year as part of my Inktober project. You might know me from Nashville-area comic cons such as MTAC, Handmade and Bound, or some of the local library shows.  I've taught comic workshops all over the country, and hope to continue to share my love and enthusiasm for this medium with Nashville.
My work:7" Kara- my watercolor webcomicProfessional PortfolioYoutube channel
This class is a refinement of Fall 2018's Making Comics and Zines course, also offered through Nashville Community Ed. If you're interested in viewing last semester's class materials, or have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to me via email. Registration for Making Comics is still open!
Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Comic and Art Goals for 2019

Finish Volume 2 of 7" Kara (Finish painting chapter 8, letter chapters 7 and 8, bonus chapter, collate bonus materials, cover, layout book, Kickstart)Teach at least one more 'semester' with Nashville Community Ed (beginning Jan 24th)Put together Mermay 2018Put together Lilliputian Living Volume 2Improve as an artist in concrete ways- more figure drawing, draw from life, work on drawing fasterCreate postcards to send out to agents and editors- actually send these outUse time more effectively/structure your days betterClose this blogWork through review backlog, find a way to organize that information so others can find it easilyNew set of wooden charms or color acrylic charmsMore detailed standalone illustrations/illustrations with more storytelling
Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

Printers For Comics Artists

Printers For Comic Process:Printers can be an important part of the art process for comic artists.  Whether you work traditionally and need to print bluelines, or work digitally and want to print minis and art prints, these suggestions are carefully curated to help you find the right printer for your needs.
What you want:Printing Bluelines:
Smaller Format: 

All in Ones:

Image Source

Canon TS6120 All in One Printer:
$44.99 on Amazon
Recommended by Kabocha

With smaller format printers, stand-alone printers are usually not cost effective.  All in one printers include print and scan capabilities and are a great starting point for artists interested in making comics.

Large Format:

All in Ones:

Image Source

Brother MFC-J5330DW
$144.99 on Amazon

This is the newer version of the first large format printer I'd ever owned.  It's an affordable entry-level option that is decent at non-photo blue printing, and mediocre at scanning.  It's a great way to dip your toe into traditional comic art.

Stand Alone Printers:

Image Source

What I own:
Canon Pixma Pro 9000 Mk II
$599.99+shipping on Amazon

Image Source

Newer Version:
Canon Pixma Pro-100 Wireless Professional Inkjet Printer
$323.86 on Prime

For larger format printing, a standalone printer will last longer.

Printing Minis:

I recommend toner-based printers as they are more economical for large scale production.
Image Source

HP Laserjet Pro M254dw$229.99 on Amazon Prime
Toner is expensive and requires cooldown periods, but this printer can duplex (print on both sides) which saves timeArt Prints At Home
Mini Prints:

Image Source

Canon Selphy CP1300 Wireless Printer
$99.95 on Amazon


Great for printing on the go, particularly at conventions- all you need is a power source!  Batteries are available but expensive.  Prints by heat transfer, so prints are practically waterproof.
Rechargable battery

Recommended by Kabocha

Full Size Art Prints:

Image Source

Canon TS6120 All in One Printer
$44.99 on Amazon

Recommended by Kabocha

Note:  Most artists polled get their printing done through a third party service, such as Shutterfly or Catprints.

Still looking for a printer?

Check out:
The Best Wide-Format Printers for 2019
The Best Portable Printers for 2019
The Best Photo Printers for 2019
The Best Inkjet Printers for 2019
The Best Wireless Printers for 2019


Please consider donating to this blog or purchasing from Natto-shop (http://nattosoup.com/shop) if you want me to continue publishing quality content. All materials tested were purchased from my own pocket. Keep on Truckin' Nattosoup is not under any sponsorship.

2018 Comic Artist Gift Guide

Comic friends!  You didn't think I just FORGOT you this holiday season, did you?!  Of course not!  This year I discovered a lot of new favorites I wanted to share with you guys, and since I know yall aren't good about buying for yourselves, you can send this list to anyone who asks what you'd like!  Since I'm a traditional comic artist myself, this is mostly geared towards traditional media comics, but there are a few digital goodies on here as well!

Previous Comic Artist Gift Guides:

Holiday Gift Guide:  Buying for Adult Artists

Gift Guide for Intermediate and Student Artists
Comic Artist Starter Pack


2018 Comic Artist Gift Guide:

Traditional Media:

Sketchbooks:

Show in this image: Blick Studio Sketch (bottom), Canson XL watercolor (middle), Strathmore Visual Journal (top)
I recommend an inexpensive sketchbook for actually sketching and layouts, and mixed media or watercolor sketchbooks for ink, marker, or watercolor experimentation.


Canson XL watercolor
7"x10", $9.99 on Amazon


Blick Studio Sketch
9"x12", $4.78 on Blick


Strathmore Mixed Media Visual Arts Journal
9"x12", $7.99 on Blick

Drawing:

Included in this image: Pilot Color Eno Pencils, Tombow Mono Eraser, Moo eraser, Pentel graphite leads, Dr Grip pencil, Pentel Icy pencil, Tombow Knock eraser

Leads:


Color Eno Colored Leads
8 color sampler, including mechanical pencils, $9.60 on Amazon
Just the leads: $14.75 on Amazon




Pentel Hi Polymer
B-$5.07 on Amazon
HB-$15.30 on Amazon

Pencils:

I wanted to focus on recommending mechanical pencils that are easier on artist hands, and less likely to cause issues like arthritis.  I've selected affordable plastic pencils that have slight give with nice cushy grips- it's better to break your pencil than ruin your hand.

Sumo Grip mechanical Pencil
$8.05 on Amazon

Uni Kuru Toga (rotates lead, always a sharp point)
$5.71 on Amazon


Pentel ICY
$6.19 on Amazon



Dr Grip
$9.09 on Amazon



Erasers:

All erasers selected for inclusion in this gift guide are soft, fairly smear resistant, and will not cause ghosting with inks.

White Stroke white erasers
Set of 3, $3.29 on Jerry's Artarama

Moo Erasers
$6.72 on Amazon

Mono Block Eraser
Set of 10, $7.10 on Amazon

These smaller, knock type or pencil type erasers are perfect for erasing small areas or correcting fine details.

Pentel Clic Erase
Set of 3, $3.97 on Amazon

Mono Knock Eraser
3.8 mm, $2.51 on Amazon

Mono Zero, Pen Style Erasers
Set of 2 (round and rectangular) plus refills, $9.90 on Amazon

Easy Inking:

In this image, top to bottom: Sakura of America Pigma FB, MB, and BB, Pentel Pigment brushpens and refillI've mentioned and reviewed dozens of brushpens over the past eight years, this year's gift guide distills that experience into a curated few that really deliver.

I've selected pens that are waterproof, easy to use, and deliver expressive lineweights.  We have two basic types- a brushpen with individual nylon bristles and brushpens with solid foam nibs.


Pentel Pigment brushpens
Fine- $11.05 on Amazon
Broad: $4.82 on Amazon



Sakura Pigma FB, MB, BB
Set of 3, $7.11 on Amazon



Kuretake Fudegokochi Brushpen:
Set of 3, $8.40 on Amazon

Intermediate Inking

In this image:  Deleter Neopiko Line White, Deleter White 2, Black Star HiCarb, Kuretake 60, Kaimei Sol K, Dinky Dips 
This year, I want to reiterate one favorite, introduce you to three great inks, and hopefully introduce you to a couple new favorites.

Inking and Corrections:


Dinky Dips
Various sizes and prices on Paper and Ink Arts


Black Star Hi Carb Ink- waterproof India Ink
$6.65 on DickBlick


Kaimei Sol K- alcohol marker proof ink
$11.00 on Jetpens


Kuretake 60- sumi ink popular with mangaka
$5.48 on Amazon




Deleter White Ink 2
$4.59 through the Deleter Mangashop

Deleter White Line
$5.52 through B4 Comic

PH Martin's Bleedproof White
$8.09 on DickBlick

Inking Brushes:

For more information about selecting brushes for artists, please check out the following:
Lets Get Inky with Brushes: An Inktober Series
Robust Inking Toolkit Guide for Professional Artists
Guest Post: Heidi Black and Brush Selection

Kuretake and Boku Undo Menso Brushes:

In this image: Top: Kuretake Menso Brush, bottom Boku Undo Menso Brush

Kuretake Zig Cartoonist Kolinsky Hair Menso Brush Extra Fine
$13.35 on Amazon

Kuretake Zig Cartoonist Horse and Goat Hair Menso Brush Fine:
$4.78 on Amazon

Kuretake Zig Cartoonist Horse and Goat Menso Brush Medium:
$8.99 on Amazon

Set of all three:
$45.00 on Amazon

Generally, Western Inking Brushes are rounds, sized 0-4, depending on the brand and your preferences.  Most are made from Kolinsky sable, but some artists prefer synthetic fibers.  If you prefer to ink with synthetic brushes, please write in and let me know about your favorites!

You want good spring, good snap, the ability to hold a lot of ink, and the ability to come to a sharp point when wet.

Winsor and Newton Series 7
Size 2, $23.99 on DickBlick

Creative Mark Rhapsody
Size 2, $7.99 on Jerry's Artarama

Princeton 7050
Size 2, $11.98 on DickBlick

Escoda Reserva
Size 2, $20.28 on Blick

Nibs:

Show here: Tachikawa nib holder, Tachikawa G nibs
For more information about inking with a nib, please check out:
Let's Get Inky with Nibs: An Inktober Series



Tachikawa Nib Holders
$8.95 on Paper and Ink Arts

Tachikawa G Nibs
$1.20 each on Paper and Ink Arts

Caged Tachikawa G Nibs

Tachikawa Tank Nibs
Set of 5, $13.00 on Jetpens

Kuretake Spoon Nibs
Pack of 3, $6.50 on Jetpens

Brause Rose
$2.60 on Paper and Ink Arts

Note:  Paper and Ink Arts sells individual nibs openstock, allowing you to mix and match.


Great for Borders:


In this image: Sakura Calligrapher 3.0, Sakura Graphic, Sakura Graphic 2, Sakura Graphic, Sakura Graphic, Sakura Calligrapher 1.0, Sakura Calligrapher 2.0
I really prefer the Graphic pens to the Calligrapher pens, as the 3.0 tends to be a bit wider with their Graphic line (great for borders), but the Graphic pens are sometimes harder to find.  All pens are waterproof.

Sakura Calligrapher Pens
1mm $4.93 on Amazon
2mm $5.08 on Amazon
3mm $6.26 on Amazon

Sakura Pigma Graphic Calligraphy Pens
Set of 3, $9.89 on Amazon

Papers to Work On:


Source
Inks:
Strathmore Sequential Art Paper: 500 Series Bristol
Plate-Good for Nibs and Fude Pens
$28.79 on Blick
Vellum-Good for brushes
$25.05 on Blick

Strathmore Vellum Bristol Visual Art Journal
9"x12", $9.73 on DickBlick: https://www.dickblick.com/items/13327...

Strathmore Smooth  Bristol Visual Art Journal
9"x12", $9.73 on DickBlick:https://www.dickblick.com/items/13327...

Source
Fabriano Studio Watercolor Paper(great for brush inking)
12 sheets, 140lb, 11"x14", $8.58 on DickBlick

Alcohol Marker:
Strathmore 500 Series Plate Bristol
$28.79 on Blick

Strathmore 500 Series Semi Smooth
$29.69 on DickBlick

Strathmore Mixed Media Toned Paper
various sizes and colors, starting at $2.89 on DickBlick

Watercolor:
For comics:
The papers listed below will run through a printer for bluelines, and take ink well

Cellulose Papers:


Source                                                      Source
Canson Montval
(my paper of choice for 7" Kara comic pages)
10"x15", 12 sheets, $8.45 on DickBlick

Fabriano Studio
(for single layer watercolor illustration)
11"x14", 20 Sheets, $8.58 on DickBlick

Blick Studio Watercolor
(affordable basic)
11"x15", 15 Sheets $7.63 on DickBlick

These are affordable papers that may prove useful if you are working on a longform comic on a self employed budget.

Cottonrag Papers:

Source

Stonehenge Aqua Watercolor Paper
Hotpress- 9"x12", 15 sheets $16.50 on Jerry's Artarama
Coldpress- 9"x12", 15 sheets $16.50 on Jerry's Artarama

Arches Coldpress
10"x14", 12 sheets, $15.68 on DickBlick


Adding Color:



This year, I wanted to keep my recommendations simple and affordable- stuff I love, stuff I know works well, stuff I use often.

Pentel Brushpens
Set of 18 colors, $99.90 on Amazon

Blick Studio Brush Markers
Available openstock and in sets, starting at $2.96 only through DickBlick

Now that Blick has refills available, there's no reason NOT to recommend the Blick Studio Brush colors.  Affordable, available open stock  or in sets, with an option for bulk pricing, Blick Studio Brush markers make a wonderful gift!

Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers
Various sets available, 24 set is $29.99 on Amazon

Qor Introductory Set
6 colors, 5ml tubes, $20.99 on DickBlick

More resources:

Alcohol Markers for the Aspiring Artist
More Gifts for Marker Artists
Intermediate Alcohol Marker Artist Gift Guide
Alcohol Marker Resource Guide

2018 Watercolor Gift Guide

Good Storage:
Pencil Cases: 


Large Pencil Case, High Carrying Capacity
$14.99 on Amazon

Medium Pencil Case
$10.89 on Amazon

Large Capacity Pencil Case
$9.99 on Amazon


Cat Pencil Case:
$9.98 on Amazon

Rose Patterned Pencil Case:
$10.99 on Amazon

Lihit Lab Pen Case
$9.99 on Amazon

Canvas Pencil Case
$9.95 on Amazon


Large Capacity Floral Pencil Case
$12.99 on Amazon

Lihit Lab Double Pen Case
$12.38 on Amazon

Hexo Space Three Compartment Pencil Case
$14.99 on Amazon

Homecube Large Capacity Pencil Bag:
$12.99 on Amazon


Wristlet Style Easthill Large Capacit Pencil Case
$8.39 on Amazon

Large Double Zippered Pencil Case
$9.99 on Amazon


Lihit Lab Standing Pencil Case
$9.87 on Amazon

Larger Cases and Bags


Lihit Belt Bag (attaches to belt)
$9.87 on Amazon


Large Capacity Planner Case
$8.99 on Amazon

Desktop Pen Organizer
$6.96 on Amazon

Loew-Cornell Multi Brush Organizer
$10.15 on Amazon

Artist Odds and Ends:I'm sharing some old favorites (drafting brushes), some rekindled romances (washi tape and tracing paper) and a couple new favs in this year's guide!

In this Image:  Washi Tape, KUM sharpener, STAD Punyu grips, Muji clear acrylic ruler with inking edge, STAD clear acrylic ruler, tracing paper

Acrylic Rulers:
Westcott 18" Clear Acrylic Ruler
$5.79 on Amazon
Alvin 12" Clear Acrylic Ruler
$7.14 on Amazon



Drafting Brushes:
Alvin Drafting Brush
$6.51 on Amazon
Holbein Feather Drafting Brush
$14.99 on Jerry's Artarama

Tracing Paper
150 Pieces of Tracing Paper
$10.99 on Amazon



Washi Tape
21 Rolls of Metallic Washi Tape
$14.99 on Amazon
12 Rolls of Floral Washi Tape
$13.95 on Amazon



KUM 2 hole pencil sharpener
$1.79 on DickBlick

Soft Pencil Grips

If you struggle with arthritis, or if you want to ensure that you can draw for years to come, soft grips are a must!

STAD pencil grips
These are my absolute FAVORITE- I use them on my mechanical pencils and Surface Pro Stylus.  Very soft, great protection if you tend to be heavyhanded or grip too hard




Kutsuwa STAD Punyu Grip
Pack of 4, $11.96 on Amazon
Left Handed $13.98 on Amazon

Standard Foam Grips-12 Pack, $4.99 on Therapro

The Pencil Grip
$1.99 each on Autism Resources

Sonic Pencil Extender
$4.95 on Jetpens

In this image: Compression Gloves, ACE Sleeping Brace


Compression Gloves
Price varies by size, Medium is $12.99 on Amazon

Ace Night Wrist Sleep Support
$17.75 on Amazon
Digital Artists:
Huion Artist Glove for Tablet
$9.99 on Amazon

Clip Studio Paint Pro- 2018 Branding
$59.99 on Amazon

STAD pencil grips
These are my absolute FAVORITE- I use them on my mechanical pencils and Surface Pro Stylus.  Very soft, great protection if you tend to be heavyhanded or grip too hard

Kutsuwa STAD Punyu Grip
Pack of 4, $11.96 on Amazon
Left Handed $13.98 on Amazon


Inspiring Books and Recommended Reading:

Pen and Ink- $13.40 on Amazon
Jack Hamm-$12.23 on Amazon
How to Think When You Draw

More Recommended Reading:
How to Achieve Free (or Nearly) Art Education
Recommended Reading

Did I miss something?  Let me know all about it in an email!



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