Becca Hillburn's Blog, page 33
February 7, 2017
Guest Post: Nika Tan on Creating a Graphic Novel
So you want to write a graphic novel
Hi everyone! I’m Nika, creator of teen romance webcomic “Love Debut!” I just launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund a graphic novel version of the complete comic, and Becca was kind enough to invite me to write a guest post about some key lessons I learned along the way.
First off, let’s talk through why tackling a graphic novel may not be a good decision for you. One, you’re likely still very much developing your chops as a sequential storyteller, and committing to a single project that could take years to complete hampers your ability to experiment stylistically. Two, risk of burn-out is higher the longer your story is; it’s easy to lose sight of the progress you’re making and become overwhelmed with everything that’s still left to be done. This is especially true if you’re juggling school/a full-time job! Three -- you haven’t really thought through your story yet for this project. Staying open to new ideas is important, but you need to have an outline if your efforts are going to be successful.
So, before you read further, sit down and be honest with yourself: is this really the right time for you?
If you’re answer is still unequivocally YES then great! Keep on reading. And if you decide no, this doesn’t make you any less of an artist or a writer. Everyone is on a different path. As long as you keep creating, bit by bit, you will get to where you want to go.
Advice #1: Know Your Ending
I knew right off the bat how I wanted “Love Debut!” to end. From the very first page, the scene was vivid in my mind, and while I tweaked it a little from the original vision, it was an important guide for me as I created the story.
Why? Well, let’s think about what makes up an ending. It tells you clearly who your main characters are, and where their respective journeys will take them. A good ending should also encapsulate your Big Idea, the idea that is driving you to choose THIS story out of all the other stories. Once you have your ending, everything else falls into place. Not only does it help you set up your beginning, but now you have something concrete to measure every subsequent development to. You can ask yourself, Does this scene support this ending? Does it bring my characters further or closer from their goals?
In the beginning, Nick believes charm and friendliness will get him anything. Sara’s going to teach him it’s not so simple...Inevitably, you’ll come up with new and exciting ideas along the way, and as long as you keep your sights on that ending, you will not stray too far off course.
Advice #2: BUFFER
If there’s one piece of advice you take away from this, it should be to BUFFER, BUFFER, BUFFER. Seriously, folks, your buffer is your lifeline. Real-life happens all the time, and if you’re cranking out your page last-minute hours before your deadline, you will not only do a sub-par job, you will be stressed as hell. And this does not make for long-term sustainability. Trust me.
Anecdotally, most of my comic friends might have a few weeks of buffer at any given time. This covers them if they get sick or have to study or take on extra hours at work. I went even further with this: I sat on “Love Debut!” for almost a year before I started putting it up online, which amounted to a 6-month buffer from day one. By the end it was down to only a month’s worth of updates, but it was still a huge relief to know that if something urgent came up, I wouldn’t have to worry about delaying my updates.
“Don’t worry, Sara -- Nika’s buffer is still going strong!”
In all likelihood, your buffer will dwindle over time. Keep an eye on it, and make sure your update schedule is realistic given your average page turnaround time. Also, take advantage of those chapter breaks!! Take a month off in between chapters to plan your story and rebuild your buffer. You might lose a few impatient readers in the interim, but any loss is easily offset by the new readers you will gain with your demonstrated ability to keep to your word and update on schedule.
Advice #3: Invest in Side Projects
Your graphic novel should be your number one creative priority at all times, but that said, setting aside time for smaller side projects is a valuable way to improve your creative chops. This requires more discipline -- you need to be realistic with how much time you have and vigilant with not overextending yourself -- but the payoff is worth it.
Because of my generous buffer, I was able to work on a 14-page comic for a groundbreaking anthology, complete two short novels, organize a Pokemon Go fanzine, AND take a comics production class. I couldn’t do it all at once; this was spread out over the course of 3 years, and I had to be incredibly careful with my time. But it was absolutely worth it. My comic workflow improved and I got the chance to meet some very cool people along the way. Plus, even better, this let me stay excited and freshly motivated to finish the story I had set out to tell.
Advice #4: Sleep...
...eat, drink, and exercise. Taking care of yourself is SO important, and it starts with taking care of yourself physically. I’ve definitely had some late nights working to meet my production deadlines for “Love Debut!”, and those nights left me drained and useless for days afterward. Not a great way to run a years’ long marathon. Keep an eye on yourself and make sure that one-off exceptions don’t become routine.
Nothing beats quality sleep!Also, if you’re a digital artist like me, sitting at your computer staring at the screen is undeniably bad for you. Make sure to hydrate, give your eyes regular breaks to ease the strain on them, and get up and stretch every now and then. Most importantly, listen to your body. It sounds stupid, but you can seriously hurt yourself if you don’t pay attention, and then you’ll really be kicking yourself later.
Good luck!
Making a graphic novel can be a frustrating but also incredibly rewarding journey. You’ll learn so much about yourself along the way. Be patient with yourself when you fall short of your expectations, and work hard to stay excited about your story. No one can stop you from telling your story unless you give up on yourself -- so don’t! The world is a better place for having your voice in it.
Have any additional tips for new creators? Comment below!
Like what you see? Here's more information on Love Debut! and the Love Debut! Kickstarter Campaign, going on now!
Teen Webcomic “Love Debut!” Launches on Kickstarter to Fund Graphic Novel
Teen webcomic “Love Debut!” launched earlier on January 25th on Kickstarter to fund a limited print run of the complete story. The story will be printed as a softcover book with 200+ pages, including bonus material that will expand upon the original characters.
“Love Debut!”, created by Deandra “Nika” Tan, follows the story of Nick Thomas, a rising pop star, who meets Sara Hofmann, a snarky loner in Nick’s class who used to be a child star. When they discover they have more in common than they thought, they team up to turn the music world on its ears. “Love Debut!” is published online on both LoveDebutComic.Com and thecomics website Tapastic, where the series has amassed a following of over 6,500 readers.
The Kickstarter campaign for “Love Debut!” will run from Wednesday, January 25th to Friday, February 24th. Backers who pledge above the $25 softcover book tier will also have the chance to snag new merchandise, from print sets to custom charms. Recommended ages for readers is 13 or older.
You can back the Kickstarter here, or navigate here to read the story.
You can follow Nika on Twitter @onelemonylime, or back the “Love Debut!” Kickstarter here.
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.
February 5, 2017
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Brainstorming and Character Development
For most creators, the key to successfully finishing a story really lies in successfully planning your story ahead of time, and as the story progresses. There are all sorts of resources and guides to help you with your planning and writing, so please check out the Outside Resources section for more information. Unlike art, writing has always come naturally to me, so while I've taken several classes on fiction writing and writing for comics, I haven't spent time analyzing the act. So again, unlike art, I don't feel entirely comfortable teaching writing, as it's always something I've taken for granted.
If writing comes naturally to you, please don't entirely disregard the resources and tools mentioned here- they are often quite valuable for double checking your work and troubleshooting. I've found that comparing my synopsis against the three act structure graph, or plotting my synopsis on a beat sheet have been great options for keeping my story on track.
This post was brought to you thanks to the generosity of my Patrons on Patreon.
Patrons requested more comic-creation content, and I am happy to deliver! The Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step series has been brought to you by Patron request. Although I have taught workshops on various aspects of comic craft, this is the first time I've introduced an in depth series on writing, crafting, and drawing a comic to this blog. If you enjoy this post, and would like to help make more Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step possible in the future, please consider joining my community of Artnerds on Patreon. Admission is just $2 a month, and backers get access to all sorts of goodies ranging from comics to backer exclusive and early access content.
In this installment of Intro to Comic Craft: Step By Step, I'm going to reference early 7" Kara development, and Volume 1 quite a bit. My Patrons have free download access to the PDF version of Volume 1, so if you're a Patron, you may want to take a moment to skim through that. If you aren't a Patron, you can gain access by joining my Patreon, purchasing a PDF copy through Gumroad, or purchasing a physical copy from my online shop.
Types of Stories:The way you approach a novel differs from how you would approach an epic poem. Both differ from script writing.
So many comic versions of novels are flops, because the writing wasn't adapted to suit the comic medium. The Harlequin manga and the Twilight manga are both excellent examples of novels that translated poorly to comics for a variety of reasons. Comics are a unique form of literature, more akin to movies or plays than other forms of prose, and in comics, it's often more important to show than to tell.
As a comic artist, I wouldn't consider my work to be genre work, and so I can't give advice on genre writing. You may enjoy Stephen King's On Writing, or any of the below genre specific books on writing for comics:
Noir:
How to Draw Noir ComicsAlan Moore's Writing for Comics
Superhero:
The DC Guide to Creating ComicsThe DC Guide to Writing Comics
Kidlit:SCWBI: The Book (only available to members)Keep in mind that there are genres and age breakdowns within kidlit that can make a huge difference in your end audience.
Market research and demographic research for 7" Kara coincided neatly with my Masters Thesis, which focused on how page layout effected reading comprehension and page readability. I spent months researching children's comics, children's literature, how literacy is taught, and all of that was neatly funneled into Kara. For your own comics, you may not be able to neatly knit your comic into your research, but I recommend writing about topics you enjoy, or topics you are interested in.
For this post, we're going to focus on developing concepts for comics. This means we need to plan for the visuals to play a huge part in how readers perceive the story. When I write for comics, the visuals are just as important to me as the writing, and I often develop my characters and world through sketches as much as I do for notes.
Even if you intend to only write your comic, sketches can be hugely helpful in bringing an artist into your world. The sketches don't need to be good, but clear sketches are very helpful.
Length of Story or Story Restrictions:
Is this for an anthology? Are you creating a mini comic as a test? Is this a class assignment? Planning for your restrictions, and using them to your advantage is an important part of the comic creation process, and is essential for a successful comic.
When planning a short comic/mini comic, keep in mind that simple stories are sometimes best. You have limited space to convey information, and dense stories tend to become overwhelmed with text.
You should always plan your comic with a specific end in mind. Even if you end up modifying or changing your end, having an end for your story from the beginning gives you a goal to aim for when writing events.
Brainstorming Your Story:
My writing process happens in the in between times. I'm always jotting down ideas- my phone is full of memos with story pitches, my past two phones were the same. My sketchbooks are a little better- they often contain pitches AND basic brainstorming. For general story generation, I don't really have a formal process- I generally tailor my pitches to the restrictions of the format, as demonstrated in the tutorial below.
Let's Make a Comic: Concept to Scripting to Thumbnails to Roughs
I highly recommend that beginner comic artists, even those with longform writing experience, or illustration experience, begin with a mini comic before planning their grand epic. There are several reasons why planning a mini comic as a first project is a good idea:
Gives you lower barrier of entryGives you a good idea of what you're capable of, and in what time frameGives you a concrete idea of what you're capable of accomplishing on a single page Gives you an easy to accomplish goal- helps build confidencePortfolio fodderPerfect place to try out new ideas
Before starting 7" Kara, I'd completed a number of mini comics as part of my Masters education. Most were fairly short- around 4 pages, quite a few were silent, but a couple were longer (10-12 pages). Planning for a variety of story lengths gave me a lot of experience in planning for, writing, and executing comics.
Structuring Your Story:
3 Act Structure
Set Up/Exposition
Confrontation
Resolution
Image SourceCheck out the Outside Resources section for more on the 3 Act structure. Given the length of your story, you may be best served handling the story's structure as you would for a one act play.
Story Beats:
Beat Sheets:
Patreon backers will find a copy of my 7" Kara Beat Sheet in the Chapter 7 folder linked on my Patreon.
The beat sheet is a way to sequence your story, more like a bulleted list than a synopsis. This format may be easier for you to adjust as you make changes, and is a helpful way to check to make sure your story is on track.
Here's a blank beat sheet, and here's an example beat sheet from the movie Inception. Here's an explanation on how to use that blank beat sheet. For more beat sheet references and information, please check out the Outside Resources section.
Suggestions on Keeping Notes:
My writing process happens in the in between times. I'm always jotting down ideas- my phone is full of memos with story pitches, my past two phones were the same. I have waterproof notebooks, sketchbooks full of concept, and even class notes for art history covered in 7" Kara concept.
Always have something you can take notes in- cellphone these days are great, and you can sync them to your OneDrive.If you prefer the traditional, keep in mind that archiving is important- you'll need a way to assemble your notes.
I utilize a couple systems- I keep memos on my phone, but I also have a file folder that travels with me. Inside the file folder is a copy of the current overall 7" Kara synopsis, as well as loads of print outs of phone memos, sticky notes, and shower notes, taped and paper clipped to the appropriate spot in the synopsis. Every few months, I type everything over again, and start fresh.
Developing Characters: For examples of my early 7" Kara development, please check out 7" Kara Concept Mini (Free) . Patrons have access to a full download of Volume 1 via Gumroad coupon.
Over the years, I've generated A LOT of concept for 7" Kara, especially in the initial planning phases. I find it's best to develop for a larger world than you plan on utilizing- that way you always have more to draw from. Be careful, worldbuilding can be addicting!
When putting together Volume 1 of 7" Kara, I selected some of my favorite concept art and worldbuilding art to include in the Concept section. Below are some of the assembled concept pages to give you an idea of how I develop characters. If you like what you see here, check out Volume 1 in it's entirety!
Although this seems like the characters were fairly fleshed out when I began 7" Kara, I also left enough room for me to discover my characters through exercises and while working on the pages. If you need help getting to know your characters, I link character development exercises further in the post to help you get started- these are a great way to get to know secondary characters who may not 'speak' to you.
For writing characters whose backgrounds differ from your own, research is key! If possible, seek someone from that background for insight and to help you correct mistakes as you go. Check the Outside Resources section for links to writing diverse characters.
Continuing Development:
I find it helpful to continue to develop my characters as I work on the story. This allows me to get to know them better in a no-stakes playground- my sketchbook. This way, I can keep the ideas that work, and discard those that don't.
Facial Expression and Movement Practice:
As a cool down, I enjoy redrawing Japanese emoji and kaomoji as facial expressions. I prefer not to know what the emoticon actually represents, as that allows me to interpret it visually. You can find a link to emoji resources in the Outside Resources section.
Naomi Character Challenge
For the full challenge including the prompts used, check this post out.
I decided to complete this challenge in April 2015, as Naomi was about to become a main character in 7" Kara. Although I'd had her character design for a couple years by that point, I wanted to get to know her better, and I used this challenge as an opportunity to practice drawing Naomi.
Working on this challenge really gave me the opportunity to get to know Naomi. By the time I'd finished, I knew what she did with her free time during the school year, her favorite books, and her aspirations for the future.
World BuildingWorld building includes everything outside of your main characters- the cultures they're from, the surrounding environment, the objects they use in their homes. World building before you begin your story can help you develop a believable world, and is well worth your time/
For me, worldbuilding happens most naturally when I'm killing time, as my brain naturally looks for a way to stay busy. In your worldbuilding phase, I recommend having a pocket notebook handy, so you can jot down ideas and sketches as they come to mind. Don't worry about discarding ideas at this point- even an idea that didn't quite work may provide handy inspiration.
Developing Environment:
Below are a selection of images from the Concept section of 7" Kara Volume 1. These images were curated from the large collection of worldbuilding sketches and notes generated while developing 7" Kara.
Surrounding world:
The Immediate Setting:
Kara's Home:
Creating and Maintaining Photo Morgues
Photo morgues aren't as dark as they sound- it's just where you collect and organize your reference. I use Pinterest as a tool for this, as you can pin images from the Pinterest site, or pin outside images from the internet, your computer, or your phone.
Kara Clothing
Meldina Clothing
Naomi Clothing
Kara House
Naomi Room
I can access my Pinterest account across computers and devices, so it's really handy if I want to do some character sketches or art while at conventions or vacations.
For Your ProjectsBrainstorming Options
Character Generators
Human and Humanoid Character Generators
Character Generator
Random Young Adult Character Generator
Character Development Inspiration
Backstory and Origin Generator
Character Exercises:
30 Essential Expressions Challenge
Convert Japanese emoticons to expressions (I use this site)
List of Emoticons
On writing diverse characters:
Bechdel Test
How To Write Diverse Characters
CBC Panelists Weigh in On Writing Diverse Characters
Writing Diverse Fiction: A Practical Guide
How to Write Diverse Characters (And Why It’s Not About Being ‘PC’
Recommended Reading:
Directing the Story
Temple of the 7 Golden Camels (blog)
Drawing Words and Writing Pictures
Framed Ink
Graphic Storytelling And Visual Narrative
Making Comics
Understanding Comics
Outside Resources:
Wikipedia: Act Structure
Reddit: Worldbuilding Community
What is the Three Act Structure (includes sample script)
Story by Robert McKee
Camp NaNoWriMo- Writing Resources
Everything We Know About...Scripts! (does not talk about comics)
How to Use a Beat Sheet to Design a Story
WTF is a Beat Sheet?
Weaving Stories Together: The Beat Sheet
Jami Gold: Worksheets for Writers
This post was brought to you thanks to 7" Kara
7" Kara is my ongoing watercolor comic- the first volume is available to purchase in the Natto-shop (physical books) or through Gumroad (digital copies). If you enjoy this blog, especially the Watercolor Basics or Intro to Comic Craft series, supporting 7" Kara is a great way to ensure I'll continue to work on intensive, long form series here on the blog.
7" Kara follows the adventures of diminutive Kara as she explores the outside world. Kara meets humans, rides a cat, and makes new friends in this beautiful family friend comic. Buy 7" Kara for yourself, or for a little one in your life, and help support this blog.
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.
If writing comes naturally to you, please don't entirely disregard the resources and tools mentioned here- they are often quite valuable for double checking your work and troubleshooting. I've found that comparing my synopsis against the three act structure graph, or plotting my synopsis on a beat sheet have been great options for keeping my story on track.
This post was brought to you thanks to the generosity of my Patrons on Patreon.
Patrons requested more comic-creation content, and I am happy to deliver! The Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step series has been brought to you by Patron request. Although I have taught workshops on various aspects of comic craft, this is the first time I've introduced an in depth series on writing, crafting, and drawing a comic to this blog. If you enjoy this post, and would like to help make more Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step possible in the future, please consider joining my community of Artnerds on Patreon. Admission is just $2 a month, and backers get access to all sorts of goodies ranging from comics to backer exclusive and early access content.
In this installment of Intro to Comic Craft: Step By Step, I'm going to reference early 7" Kara development, and Volume 1 quite a bit. My Patrons have free download access to the PDF version of Volume 1, so if you're a Patron, you may want to take a moment to skim through that. If you aren't a Patron, you can gain access by joining my Patreon, purchasing a PDF copy through Gumroad, or purchasing a physical copy from my online shop.
Types of Stories:The way you approach a novel differs from how you would approach an epic poem. Both differ from script writing.
So many comic versions of novels are flops, because the writing wasn't adapted to suit the comic medium. The Harlequin manga and the Twilight manga are both excellent examples of novels that translated poorly to comics for a variety of reasons. Comics are a unique form of literature, more akin to movies or plays than other forms of prose, and in comics, it's often more important to show than to tell.
As a comic artist, I wouldn't consider my work to be genre work, and so I can't give advice on genre writing. You may enjoy Stephen King's On Writing, or any of the below genre specific books on writing for comics:
Noir:
How to Draw Noir ComicsAlan Moore's Writing for Comics
Superhero:
The DC Guide to Creating ComicsThe DC Guide to Writing Comics
Kidlit:SCWBI: The Book (only available to members)Keep in mind that there are genres and age breakdowns within kidlit that can make a huge difference in your end audience.
Market research and demographic research for 7" Kara coincided neatly with my Masters Thesis, which focused on how page layout effected reading comprehension and page readability. I spent months researching children's comics, children's literature, how literacy is taught, and all of that was neatly funneled into Kara. For your own comics, you may not be able to neatly knit your comic into your research, but I recommend writing about topics you enjoy, or topics you are interested in.
For this post, we're going to focus on developing concepts for comics. This means we need to plan for the visuals to play a huge part in how readers perceive the story. When I write for comics, the visuals are just as important to me as the writing, and I often develop my characters and world through sketches as much as I do for notes.
Even if you intend to only write your comic, sketches can be hugely helpful in bringing an artist into your world. The sketches don't need to be good, but clear sketches are very helpful.
Length of Story or Story Restrictions:
Is this for an anthology? Are you creating a mini comic as a test? Is this a class assignment? Planning for your restrictions, and using them to your advantage is an important part of the comic creation process, and is essential for a successful comic.
When planning a short comic/mini comic, keep in mind that simple stories are sometimes best. You have limited space to convey information, and dense stories tend to become overwhelmed with text.
You should always plan your comic with a specific end in mind. Even if you end up modifying or changing your end, having an end for your story from the beginning gives you a goal to aim for when writing events.
Brainstorming Your Story:
My writing process happens in the in between times. I'm always jotting down ideas- my phone is full of memos with story pitches, my past two phones were the same. My sketchbooks are a little better- they often contain pitches AND basic brainstorming. For general story generation, I don't really have a formal process- I generally tailor my pitches to the restrictions of the format, as demonstrated in the tutorial below.
Let's Make a Comic: Concept to Scripting to Thumbnails to Roughs
I highly recommend that beginner comic artists, even those with longform writing experience, or illustration experience, begin with a mini comic before planning their grand epic. There are several reasons why planning a mini comic as a first project is a good idea:
Gives you lower barrier of entryGives you a good idea of what you're capable of, and in what time frameGives you a concrete idea of what you're capable of accomplishing on a single page Gives you an easy to accomplish goal- helps build confidencePortfolio fodderPerfect place to try out new ideas
Before starting 7" Kara, I'd completed a number of mini comics as part of my Masters education. Most were fairly short- around 4 pages, quite a few were silent, but a couple were longer (10-12 pages). Planning for a variety of story lengths gave me a lot of experience in planning for, writing, and executing comics.
Structuring Your Story:
Act structure explains how a plot of a film story is composed. Just like plays (staged drama) have 'acts', critics and screenwriters tend to divide films into acts; though films don't require to be physically broken down as such in realitySource
3 Act Structure
Set Up/Exposition
Confrontation
Resolution
Image SourceCheck out the Outside Resources section for more on the 3 Act structure. Given the length of your story, you may be best served handling the story's structure as you would for a one act play.Story Beats:
Beat Sheets:
Patreon backers will find a copy of my 7" Kara Beat Sheet in the Chapter 7 folder linked on my Patreon.
The beat sheet is a way to sequence your story, more like a bulleted list than a synopsis. This format may be easier for you to adjust as you make changes, and is a helpful way to check to make sure your story is on track.
Here's a blank beat sheet, and here's an example beat sheet from the movie Inception. Here's an explanation on how to use that blank beat sheet. For more beat sheet references and information, please check out the Outside Resources section.
Suggestions on Keeping Notes:
My writing process happens in the in between times. I'm always jotting down ideas- my phone is full of memos with story pitches, my past two phones were the same. I have waterproof notebooks, sketchbooks full of concept, and even class notes for art history covered in 7" Kara concept.
Always have something you can take notes in- cellphone these days are great, and you can sync them to your OneDrive.If you prefer the traditional, keep in mind that archiving is important- you'll need a way to assemble your notes.
I utilize a couple systems- I keep memos on my phone, but I also have a file folder that travels with me. Inside the file folder is a copy of the current overall 7" Kara synopsis, as well as loads of print outs of phone memos, sticky notes, and shower notes, taped and paper clipped to the appropriate spot in the synopsis. Every few months, I type everything over again, and start fresh.
Developing Characters: For examples of my early 7" Kara development, please check out 7" Kara Concept Mini (Free) . Patrons have access to a full download of Volume 1 via Gumroad coupon.
Over the years, I've generated A LOT of concept for 7" Kara, especially in the initial planning phases. I find it's best to develop for a larger world than you plan on utilizing- that way you always have more to draw from. Be careful, worldbuilding can be addicting!
When putting together Volume 1 of 7" Kara, I selected some of my favorite concept art and worldbuilding art to include in the Concept section. Below are some of the assembled concept pages to give you an idea of how I develop characters. If you like what you see here, check out Volume 1 in it's entirety!
Although this seems like the characters were fairly fleshed out when I began 7" Kara, I also left enough room for me to discover my characters through exercises and while working on the pages. If you need help getting to know your characters, I link character development exercises further in the post to help you get started- these are a great way to get to know secondary characters who may not 'speak' to you.
For writing characters whose backgrounds differ from your own, research is key! If possible, seek someone from that background for insight and to help you correct mistakes as you go. Check the Outside Resources section for links to writing diverse characters.
Continuing Development:
I find it helpful to continue to develop my characters as I work on the story. This allows me to get to know them better in a no-stakes playground- my sketchbook. This way, I can keep the ideas that work, and discard those that don't.
Facial Expression and Movement Practice:
As a cool down, I enjoy redrawing Japanese emoji and kaomoji as facial expressions. I prefer not to know what the emoticon actually represents, as that allows me to interpret it visually. You can find a link to emoji resources in the Outside Resources section.
Naomi Character Challenge
For the full challenge including the prompts used, check this post out.
I decided to complete this challenge in April 2015, as Naomi was about to become a main character in 7" Kara. Although I'd had her character design for a couple years by that point, I wanted to get to know her better, and I used this challenge as an opportunity to practice drawing Naomi.
Working on this challenge really gave me the opportunity to get to know Naomi. By the time I'd finished, I knew what she did with her free time during the school year, her favorite books, and her aspirations for the future.
World BuildingWorld building includes everything outside of your main characters- the cultures they're from, the surrounding environment, the objects they use in their homes. World building before you begin your story can help you develop a believable world, and is well worth your time/
For me, worldbuilding happens most naturally when I'm killing time, as my brain naturally looks for a way to stay busy. In your worldbuilding phase, I recommend having a pocket notebook handy, so you can jot down ideas and sketches as they come to mind. Don't worry about discarding ideas at this point- even an idea that didn't quite work may provide handy inspiration.
Developing Environment:
Below are a selection of images from the Concept section of 7" Kara Volume 1. These images were curated from the large collection of worldbuilding sketches and notes generated while developing 7" Kara.
Surrounding world:
The Immediate Setting:
Kara's Home:
Creating and Maintaining Photo Morgues
Photo morgues aren't as dark as they sound- it's just where you collect and organize your reference. I use Pinterest as a tool for this, as you can pin images from the Pinterest site, or pin outside images from the internet, your computer, or your phone.
Kara Clothing
Meldina Clothing
Naomi Clothing
Kara House
Naomi Room
I can access my Pinterest account across computers and devices, so it's really handy if I want to do some character sketches or art while at conventions or vacations.
For Your ProjectsBrainstorming Options
Character Generators
Human and Humanoid Character Generators
Character Generator
Random Young Adult Character Generator
Character Development Inspiration
Backstory and Origin Generator
Character Exercises:
30 Essential Expressions Challenge
Convert Japanese emoticons to expressions (I use this site)
List of Emoticons
On writing diverse characters:
Bechdel Test
How To Write Diverse Characters
CBC Panelists Weigh in On Writing Diverse Characters
Writing Diverse Fiction: A Practical Guide
How to Write Diverse Characters (And Why It’s Not About Being ‘PC’
Recommended Reading:
Directing the Story
Temple of the 7 Golden Camels (blog)
Drawing Words and Writing Pictures
Framed Ink
Graphic Storytelling And Visual Narrative
Making Comics
Understanding Comics
Outside Resources:
Wikipedia: Act Structure
Reddit: Worldbuilding Community
What is the Three Act Structure (includes sample script)
Story by Robert McKee
Camp NaNoWriMo- Writing Resources
Everything We Know About...Scripts! (does not talk about comics)
How to Use a Beat Sheet to Design a Story
WTF is a Beat Sheet?
Weaving Stories Together: The Beat Sheet
Jami Gold: Worksheets for Writers
This post was brought to you thanks to 7" Kara
7" Kara is my ongoing watercolor comic- the first volume is available to purchase in the Natto-shop (physical books) or through Gumroad (digital copies). If you enjoy this blog, especially the Watercolor Basics or Intro to Comic Craft series, supporting 7" Kara is a great way to ensure I'll continue to work on intensive, long form series here on the blog.
7" Kara follows the adventures of diminutive Kara as she explores the outside world. Kara meets humans, rides a cat, and makes new friends in this beautiful family friend comic. Buy 7" Kara for yourself, or for a little one in your life, and help support this blog.
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.
February 1, 2017
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Introduction
This series was requested by my Patrons on Patreon.
If you enjoy content like this, and would like to help me produce more, please head on over to the Patreon for information on how to join the community. Backers get early access to many videos, voting rights on new content, and sneak peeks into what I'm working on. Backers will have access to the materials created in Chapter 7 so they may follow along with the comic creation process.
Every comic artist works a bit differently. Some work with writers. Some work with writers and editors. Some work with writers, editors, inkers, colorists, letterers.
I work alone on 7" Kara, although I've written for other artists ("A Story about Yakitori", in Ladies Night's sixth anthology, Let's Eat!) and I've drawn for writers (Gizmo Grandma: A Twisty Tale, written by Lenore Salazar). Most of my work written, illustrated, painted, and lettered by me ("Satellite" in the SCAD Travel Anthology, "Small Blessings" in Hana Doki Kira, "Momotaro" in Once Upon a Time, "Pretty Paladin Critical Missy" in Chainmail Bikini, "Knight School" in 1001 Knights, "Two Tools" in the Ladies Night Girl Gang Angouleme zine). While attending SCAD, I was introduced several methods for producing comics, and refined a method that seems to work best for me. In the Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step series, I'm going to introduce you to my method of making comics.
What's most important is that you find a method of comic creation that works for you and your team, regardless of size. My methods may not work for everyone- I know many artists who thumbnail rather than script, working from a very loose plot and notes. I know artists who skip the roughs stage, refining their thumbnails into a finished page. And I know artists who need more revision stages- roughs, tight roughs, pencils, then inks. I encourage you to experiment with process by making mini comics- short, self contained comics anywhere from 1 page to 12 pages. You may be surprised to find that a process that works well for a 12 page comic is overkill for a 1 page comic, and a process that works for a 1 page comic may not be robust enough for your 12 page comic.
I do most of my work traditionally, with pencil and paper, although most artists probably prefer to work digitally. Programs like MangaStudio (ClipStudioPaint) make creating comics digitally very easy, as there are several features (thumbnailing, entire chapter view, perspective grids, background assets, poseable dummies) designed to help with the comic creation process.
Over the years, I've written a lot about comic process. You may find these posts helpful:
Choosing a Comic Project
Introducing a New 7" Kara Story
Knight School Process Post
Foiled Process Work
Momotaro Process Photos
7" Kara Chapter 5 Progress Shots
Bravest Warriors: The Search For Catbug Spread (process)
Redoing Word Balloons You Botched the First Time
Creating Digital Bluelines
How to Drop Out Your Bluelines
Exploring Thumbnails
I've also hosted several guest posts on comic creation process that you should check out:
Amy Stoddard: Fine Sometimes Rain Process
A New Online Comic Magazine: StArt Faire
Breakfast on a Cliff Process
Interview with Chris Paulsen, Creator of Precocious
Guest Post: Aisazia And Choosing a Comic Project
And here are some general posts that tend to be useful for comic craft:
All About Bluelines- Traditional Media
Basic Comic Supply List
Darc Sowers- Printing Gotchas
Using Pinterest as a Reference Tool (setting up a photo morgue)
Materials and Techniques: Comic Craft (slide show from a panel)
In my recent Intro to Comic Craft: Process Overview, I share my general comic making process in a series of tweets, along with relevant examples.
My process:
Overall Story Synopsis
Chapter by Chapter breakdowns
Chapter Synopsis
Page by page breakdown
Character designs, environment designs, begin Pinterest chapter specific photo morgues
Script Form- Tiers, Panels, Shot direction, dialogue
Layouts and Thumbnails
Scan thumbnails, print out bluelines for roughs
Roughs (including constructive anatomy and perspective)
Print bluelines onto watercolor paper
Pencils
Begin painting
Scan chapter in batch
Color correction
Borders
Dialogue/Speech Balloons
Posts in this Series:
Intro to Comic Craft: Process Overview
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Introduction
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Developing A Script
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Turning Your Script into Thumbnails and Layouts
Intro To Comic Craft: Step by Step: Creating Thumbnails
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Converting Thumbnails to Roughs
Videos in this Series:
Let's Make a Comic: Concept to Scripting to Thumbnails to Roughs
Thumbnailing Your Comic
Roughing It
You Need Perspective
Perspective in the Panels
Teens Creating Comics at the Nashville Public Library
In this step by step series, I plan on sharing every step of my process, in hopes that will inspire you to create your own comics, or at least ignite an interest in comics as a form of literature. As I prepare to print and promote Volume 2 of 7" Kara, I may also write about the publication and printing process.
There will be some overlap between this series and my ongoing Watercolor Basics series, as I am a watercolor comic artist. The Watercolor Basics series will focus on the painting portion of those pages, whereas the Intro to Comic Craft series will focus on the planning and execution. If you are interested in watercolor, I highly recommend you begin reading my Watercolor Basics.
This post was also sponsored by my watercolor comic 7" Kara:
7" Kara follows the adventures of lilliputian Kara, an 11 year old girl searching for big adventure. When she discovers that humans are more than the stuff of legends, she sets out to meet one. Big adventure awaits as Kara explores the larger outside world, rides cats, and tries new things. 7" Kara is a beautiful watercolor comic for all ages. Volume 1, which includes chapters 1-4, a bonus story, and beautiful concept art, is available through the Natto-shop.
If you enjoy comic craft content, please consider supporting my comic. These posts are populated by content created while working on 7" Kara.
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.
If you enjoy content like this, and would like to help me produce more, please head on over to the Patreon for information on how to join the community. Backers get early access to many videos, voting rights on new content, and sneak peeks into what I'm working on. Backers will have access to the materials created in Chapter 7 so they may follow along with the comic creation process.
Every comic artist works a bit differently. Some work with writers. Some work with writers and editors. Some work with writers, editors, inkers, colorists, letterers.
I work alone on 7" Kara, although I've written for other artists ("A Story about Yakitori", in Ladies Night's sixth anthology, Let's Eat!) and I've drawn for writers (Gizmo Grandma: A Twisty Tale, written by Lenore Salazar). Most of my work written, illustrated, painted, and lettered by me ("Satellite" in the SCAD Travel Anthology, "Small Blessings" in Hana Doki Kira, "Momotaro" in Once Upon a Time, "Pretty Paladin Critical Missy" in Chainmail Bikini, "Knight School" in 1001 Knights, "Two Tools" in the Ladies Night Girl Gang Angouleme zine). While attending SCAD, I was introduced several methods for producing comics, and refined a method that seems to work best for me. In the Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step series, I'm going to introduce you to my method of making comics.
What's most important is that you find a method of comic creation that works for you and your team, regardless of size. My methods may not work for everyone- I know many artists who thumbnail rather than script, working from a very loose plot and notes. I know artists who skip the roughs stage, refining their thumbnails into a finished page. And I know artists who need more revision stages- roughs, tight roughs, pencils, then inks. I encourage you to experiment with process by making mini comics- short, self contained comics anywhere from 1 page to 12 pages. You may be surprised to find that a process that works well for a 12 page comic is overkill for a 1 page comic, and a process that works for a 1 page comic may not be robust enough for your 12 page comic.
I do most of my work traditionally, with pencil and paper, although most artists probably prefer to work digitally. Programs like MangaStudio (ClipStudioPaint) make creating comics digitally very easy, as there are several features (thumbnailing, entire chapter view, perspective grids, background assets, poseable dummies) designed to help with the comic creation process.
Over the years, I've written a lot about comic process. You may find these posts helpful:
Choosing a Comic Project
Introducing a New 7" Kara Story
Knight School Process Post
Foiled Process Work
Momotaro Process Photos
7" Kara Chapter 5 Progress Shots
Bravest Warriors: The Search For Catbug Spread (process)
Redoing Word Balloons You Botched the First Time
Creating Digital Bluelines
How to Drop Out Your Bluelines
Exploring Thumbnails
I've also hosted several guest posts on comic creation process that you should check out:
Amy Stoddard: Fine Sometimes Rain Process
A New Online Comic Magazine: StArt Faire
Breakfast on a Cliff Process
Interview with Chris Paulsen, Creator of Precocious
Guest Post: Aisazia And Choosing a Comic Project
And here are some general posts that tend to be useful for comic craft:
All About Bluelines- Traditional Media
Basic Comic Supply List
Darc Sowers- Printing Gotchas
Using Pinterest as a Reference Tool (setting up a photo morgue)
Materials and Techniques: Comic Craft (slide show from a panel)
In my recent Intro to Comic Craft: Process Overview, I share my general comic making process in a series of tweets, along with relevant examples.
My process:
Overall Story Synopsis
Chapter by Chapter breakdowns
Chapter Synopsis
Page by page breakdown
Character designs, environment designs, begin Pinterest chapter specific photo morgues
Script Form- Tiers, Panels, Shot direction, dialogue
Layouts and Thumbnails
Scan thumbnails, print out bluelines for roughs
Roughs (including constructive anatomy and perspective)
Print bluelines onto watercolor paper
Pencils
Begin painting
Scan chapter in batch
Color correction
Borders
Dialogue/Speech Balloons
Posts in this Series:
Intro to Comic Craft: Process Overview
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Introduction
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Developing A Script
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Turning Your Script into Thumbnails and Layouts
Intro To Comic Craft: Step by Step: Creating Thumbnails
Intro to Comic Craft: Step by Step: Converting Thumbnails to Roughs
Videos in this Series:
Let's Make a Comic: Concept to Scripting to Thumbnails to Roughs
Thumbnailing Your Comic
Roughing It
You Need Perspective
Perspective in the Panels
Teens Creating Comics at the Nashville Public Library
In this step by step series, I plan on sharing every step of my process, in hopes that will inspire you to create your own comics, or at least ignite an interest in comics as a form of literature. As I prepare to print and promote Volume 2 of 7" Kara, I may also write about the publication and printing process.
There will be some overlap between this series and my ongoing Watercolor Basics series, as I am a watercolor comic artist. The Watercolor Basics series will focus on the painting portion of those pages, whereas the Intro to Comic Craft series will focus on the planning and execution. If you are interested in watercolor, I highly recommend you begin reading my Watercolor Basics.
This post was also sponsored by my watercolor comic 7" Kara:
7" Kara follows the adventures of lilliputian Kara, an 11 year old girl searching for big adventure. When she discovers that humans are more than the stuff of legends, she sets out to meet one. Big adventure awaits as Kara explores the larger outside world, rides cats, and tries new things. 7" Kara is a beautiful watercolor comic for all ages. Volume 1, which includes chapters 1-4, a bonus story, and beautiful concept art, is available through the Natto-shop.
If you enjoy comic craft content, please consider supporting my comic. These posts are populated by content created while working on 7" Kara.
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.
January 29, 2017
Intro to Comic Craft: Process Overview
[View the story "Comic Process" on Storify]
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.
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.
January 25, 2017
Watercolor Basics: Working In Batch: Trimming Paper to Size
Working in batch is a huge part of my work flow. I work in batch when painting comic pages, I work in batch when painting watercolors for conventions, I often work in batch when filling commissions. Batch working allows me to work quickly and effectively.
Materials:
Rotary Cutter or Knife
Scissors
Pencils
Ruler (please use a better ruler than the one shown in this tutorial, it's awful). I recommend these
Cutting mat
Note: Usually I would use a paper cutter- a simple crafter's rotary papercutter works quite well for this. Unfortunately, I did not have access to one in Luling, so I'll show you guys how to trim paper the old fashioned way.
Step 1: Decide on the ratio you want and measure
I'm cutting 9"x12" paper into 5"x7" rectangles, so I can get two squares out of each sheet if the page is in portrait.
I measure off several ticmarks at the 7" mark going down the length of the paper, and connect them with a straight line. You want to use several tic marks, rather than just two, as it ensures a straighter line. Make sure you line up your ruler's hash marks with the edge of your paper, if possible. I recommend beginning at the 1" mark when measuring your tic marks (so aim for the 8" mark, rather than the 7", if you're doing this), as some rulers cut off part of that first inch.
Going width-wise, I mark off two 5" segments
Step 2: Trimming Your Paper
Note: Rotary tools are great for trimming large sheets of paper. Old, chewed up wooden yardsticks are not. I highly recommend using a metal straightedge if you have access to one.
I line my ruler up against the OUTSIDE edge of my 7" line (if you're going to mess up, you want to mess up in the scrap paper, not into your working area), and hold the ruler down firmly while pulling the rotary cutter across the paper. You're going to need to apply a fair amount of pressure to cut through your watercolor paper in one pass- this is where the scissors come in handy. For me, some portions are not cut through completely, so I use the scissors to snip through that.
I repeat the process at my two 5" marks.
And that's how you trim paper to size, the old fashioned way!
The Watercolor Basics series is made possible thanks to the generosity of my friends on Patreon. Their support enables me to dedicate the necessary time and resources for creating quality tutorials such as those in this series. If you have enjoyed this post, or any other Watercolor Basics post, please consider joining our community of artnerds, and funding future content.
This particular post was sponsored by 7" Kara, a delightful watercolor comic for all ages. Join tiny Kara as she ventures into the large world beyond her dollhouse doors, meets humans, and rides cats. Volume 1, written and illustrated by me, and full of the art you see on this blog, is available for $15+shipping from my online store.
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.
Materials:
Rotary Cutter or Knife
Scissors
Pencils
Ruler (please use a better ruler than the one shown in this tutorial, it's awful). I recommend these
Cutting mat
Note: Usually I would use a paper cutter- a simple crafter's rotary papercutter works quite well for this. Unfortunately, I did not have access to one in Luling, so I'll show you guys how to trim paper the old fashioned way.
Step 1: Decide on the ratio you want and measure
I'm cutting 9"x12" paper into 5"x7" rectangles, so I can get two squares out of each sheet if the page is in portrait.
I measure off several ticmarks at the 7" mark going down the length of the paper, and connect them with a straight line. You want to use several tic marks, rather than just two, as it ensures a straighter line. Make sure you line up your ruler's hash marks with the edge of your paper, if possible. I recommend beginning at the 1" mark when measuring your tic marks (so aim for the 8" mark, rather than the 7", if you're doing this), as some rulers cut off part of that first inch.
Going width-wise, I mark off two 5" segments
Step 2: Trimming Your Paper
Note: Rotary tools are great for trimming large sheets of paper. Old, chewed up wooden yardsticks are not. I highly recommend using a metal straightedge if you have access to one.
I line my ruler up against the OUTSIDE edge of my 7" line (if you're going to mess up, you want to mess up in the scrap paper, not into your working area), and hold the ruler down firmly while pulling the rotary cutter across the paper. You're going to need to apply a fair amount of pressure to cut through your watercolor paper in one pass- this is where the scissors come in handy. For me, some portions are not cut through completely, so I use the scissors to snip through that.
I repeat the process at my two 5" marks.
And that's how you trim paper to size, the old fashioned way!
The Watercolor Basics series is made possible thanks to the generosity of my friends on Patreon. Their support enables me to dedicate the necessary time and resources for creating quality tutorials such as those in this series. If you have enjoyed this post, or any other Watercolor Basics post, please consider joining our community of artnerds, and funding future content.
This particular post was sponsored by 7" Kara, a delightful watercolor comic for all ages. Join tiny Kara as she ventures into the large world beyond her dollhouse doors, meets humans, and rides cats. Volume 1, written and illustrated by me, and full of the art you see on this blog, is available for $15+shipping from my online store.
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.
January 22, 2017
ScrawlrBox October
This is just an overview of my ScrawlrBox October. Patrons received access to videos and commentary.
The Unboxing
The Supplies
The Cards
The Challenge
Like what you saw and want access to more? Then join my Patreon!
Patrons are the wonderful people who help make this blog and the channel possible. Patrons provide the financial backing that not only allows me to purchase new products to review, but also allows me to dedicate the time necessary to recording and editing video, doing research, contacting companies, and honing these blog posts to be the most useful resources possible. Your support not only grants you access to Backer Exclusive content like the ScrawlrBox videos, but early access to loads of video tutorials and tips. Patronage begins at just $2 a month, and this year, we're revamping the Patron to serve your needs in new ways! So if you haven't checked out the Patreon page, make sure you keep an eye on it to see what new goodies we have in store!
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.
The Unboxing
The Supplies
The Cards
The Challenge
Like what you saw and want access to more? Then join my Patreon!
Patrons are the wonderful people who help make this blog and the channel possible. Patrons provide the financial backing that not only allows me to purchase new products to review, but also allows me to dedicate the time necessary to recording and editing video, doing research, contacting companies, and honing these blog posts to be the most useful resources possible. Your support not only grants you access to Backer Exclusive content like the ScrawlrBox videos, but early access to loads of video tutorials and tips. Patronage begins at just $2 a month, and this year, we're revamping the Patron to serve your needs in new ways! So if you haven't checked out the Patreon page, make sure you keep an eye on it to see what new goodies we have in store!
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.
January 19, 2017
Affordable Art Supplies: Crayola Super Tip 100 Pack
In 2015, as part of my Cheap Art Supplies mega series, I covered Crayola's ubiquitous Super Tips in the Walmart segment. As adult coloring books and coloring for meditation have risen in popularity, these markers (along with various pencil colors) have also grown in prominence among adult artists. In that review, I tested and field tested the 52 color set, but Crayola has since launched a 100 piece set. At around $15, this is a tempting offer, but does the 100 piece set really offer more than the 52 piece set, or is it full of dreaded duplicate colors? Let's find out!
Get Your Own:
On Amazon
But seriously, don't buy them on Amazon- head out to Walmart and find them in the wild.
Unlike other Supertip sets, the 100 pack bears a streaking resemblance to Crayola's classic crayon packaging.
The back of the box promises 100 colors, and shows color swatches, although we have learned that with inexpensive markers, you can never trust the swatches on the box, or the color of the cap. Always find out firsthand!
The interior of the box features cardboard shelves that hold two rows of markers each. Once a marker is removed, it's very easy to lose its place. This is an issue as marker caps are not always indicative of marker color, and marker colors are not labelled, so swatching and color order may be important if color accuracy is a priority.
As I swatch, I try to keep the colors in order, so this reference sheet can remain relevant when selecting colors.
The metallic silver, the only metallic in this set, doesn't have much of a metallic or glittery sheen to it. I've noticed that there are few waterbased metallic markers (outside of the Zig Wink of Luna brushes and the Zig Posterman Pens, which are pump action), which can carry the larger metallic particles well.
Swatching reveals that this set includes several distinct greens, a handful of good purples,and even a selection of warm and cool grays, unusual for Crayola. While there doesn't seem to be as wide an array of skintones as the Multicultural set offers, there seems to be more skintones than available in the 52 piece Supertip set.
In my opinion, the 100 piece set is well worth the $15 pricetag, especially considering that Supertips can double as watercolor markers.
Super Tips In Action:
Draw with Me: Easy Christmas Tree
Draw with Me: Holiday Holly
Draw with Me: Jingle Bells
Draw with Me: Ribbon and Bows
Draw With Me: Pretty Presents
Draw with Me: Ornaments
Draw with Me: Pine Boughs and Wreaths
Draw with Me: Holiday Wreaths
Draw With Me: Christmas Lights
Tips for SuperTips
Allow previous layer to dry fully, as waterbased markers stay wet longer, and paper may pill and tear Experiment with several types of paper to find the kind that works best for you- in the above videos, I worked on simple Strathmore Sketch paperKeep your illustrations fairly simple- waterbased markers, especially Super Tips, can't really handle multiple layersWork from light to dark- waterbased markers don't work the same way alcohol markers doWaterbased markers like Crayola Supertips can double as watercolor markers- swatch ahead of time to find out, as not all markers are made equally. Watercolor effects can double a marker's usefulness.Waterbased markers are great if you're sensitive to fumes, and tend to be highly water reactive, which means they're more likely to wash out if treated immediatelyWaterbased markers can be a great way to introduce your precocious creative child to 'adult' art supplies.
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.
January 16, 2017
December ArtSnacks Vs Sketchbox
Thanks to Denise Hillburn (my mother) for the gift of ArtSnacks for the year! SketchBox Basic subscription purchased by me out of personal funds. If you would like to help support this blog, and continue posts like this, please consider donating to my Paypal, or contributing to
my Patreon
. Future unboxings and reviews are unlocked to the public at the $15 level each month, but backers have access regardless of funds raised. Posts like this are only possible through the support of my Backers, so if you enjoy this content, please check it out and consider joining.
This unboxing and overview was brought to you thanks to the generosity of my backers on Patreon, and was sponsored by 7" Kara,Volume 1. 7" Kara is an ongoing children's watercolor comic set in rural Louisiana, and follows the adventures of tiny Lilliputian Kara as she discovers humans, explores the back yard, and befriends a kitten. Volume 1 is available now in the Natto-shop, just in time for Christmas!
We're nearing the end of our ArtSnacks Vs. SketchBox year of unboxings. I plan on ending this series in January, but if you enjoy it, and would like to see it continue, there are a few ways you can accomplish that. You can write to ArtSnacks and SketchBox and let them know how much you value my content, especially my reviews. You can also join the Patreon community and make your voice heard.
Special November Thanks To My Patreon Backers
Please note: I have linked backer webcomics/blogs when I have access to them. If you are a backer who would like to have your project linked, please get in contact with me.
BeylaSam
Andrew Benedict
Boss Goose
Sarah
Leanna
Yolaine
Heidi Black
Bea
Entreat
Deserae
Chris
Mary Catherine
Virginia Williams
Hoff
Ace
Wayne Norris
Yusagi
Michael Suriano
Lee
Ryan
Chandra
Rob
Previous SketchBox Vs. ArtSnacks
January- Winner: ArtSnacks
February- Winner: SketchBox
March- Winner: ArtSnacks
April- Winner: ArtSnacks
May- Winner: ArtSnacks
June- Winner: SketchBox
July- Winner: SketchBox
August- Winner: SketchBox
September- Winner: SketchBox
October- Winner: SketchBox
November- Winner: ArtSnacks
SketchBox: $25mo/$240 yr
ArtSnacks: $20mo/$200 yr
ArtSnacksUnboxing
December ArtSnacks Vs SketchBox- Becca Hillburn
Overview
Note: My photos of the cards have been lost. Please watch the unboxing video if you are interested in the cards.
The Brands:Caran d'Ache
Chartpak (Higgins)
Stabilo
Kum
Caran d'Ache Discovery Set
5 Supracolor Soft1 Full Blender BrightWatercolor pencilsSwiss MadeNot sold individually
Available in the Discovery Set L'esprit Des Alpes set on for $30.96 Amazon
Individual pencils are $2.56 openstock on DickBlick
Set of 12, $24.99 on DickBlick
Full blender bright: $4.99 on DickBlick
Value of this set: $17.79
Stabilo Point 88
fine 0.4waterbased fineliner
$1.00 openstock on Jetpens
$.95 on ArtSuppliesOnline
$.85 on DickBlick (select colors)
Higgins Black Magic
InkPump action1mm tipQuick DryingWaterproof Pigment InkBreakdown on various Higgins Inks
$4.75 on DickBlick
Kum Longpoint
Magnesium
$1.95 on Pencils.com
MSRP Total: $25.93
Lowest Retail Total: $25.34
ArtSnacks: $20 per month, inclu shipping
Demonstration:
The Supracolor II watercolor pencils disperse color with water quite readily, and seem a joy to paint with. They don't blend particularly well with the Full Bright Blender, but to be honest, I've never really cared for blenders with color pencils anyway.
As to be expected of a Kum product, the Longpoint sharpener sharpens quite well- yet another great sharpener for the pencil case. Earlier in the year, ArtSnacks sent the Palomino Longpoint in one of their boxes, and it's found a regular home in my color pencil sketching kit, and sees frequent use.
Challenge
SketchBoxUnboxing
OverviewThe Brands:Kuretake ZigPentelChartpak (Higgins)
Zig Clean Color Real Brush 4 Pack
Set of 4 ColorsNylon bristleswaterbased/watercolormade in Japan
$13.89 with Prime on Amazon
$10.48 on Marker Supply
$12.35 on DickBlick
Kuretake No 55
Double sidedHard and Soft tips
$4.20 on Jetpens
$3.53 on Amazon with free shipping
Pentel Touch Fude Pen
12 total colors
$2.50 each on Jetpens
$4.24 on Amazon
Higgins- India Ink
water-resistant finishPigment InkPump Action1mm tipQuick Drying
http://www.higginsinks.com/inkspecs
$4.75 on DickBlick
MSRP Total: $27.39
Lowest Retail Total: $21.26
SketchBox Basic: $25 + $5 shipped
Demonstration:
The Kuretake No 55's hard tip is not really a brush tip at all- it's like a hard fiber fineliner. The Soft tip is the same brush found on the No. 6 and the No 33, as well as the Zig Art and Graphic Twin markers. I love that tip.
The Zig Clean Color Real brush markers blend well with water, and blend VERY well marker into marker on watercolor paper. I can't wait to field test these!
Challenge
Draw with Me- Winter Satsumas with Clean Color Real Brush-Becca Hillburn
Higgins Vs Higgins
Notes: The two Higgins markers are actually different- ArtSnacks is Black Magic, Sketchbox is India Ink. This is great news, as it allows for head to head competition.
Higgins india ink desperses faster in water than Higgins Black Magic.
SketchBox Premium
Sketchbox Unboxing December-Sharon Cullen Art
2 Kuretake Bimoji Fude Pens- Small and Medium- $3.50 each on JetpensSketchBox Signature Brush Marker Set (Includes a blender) (3 Pastels)-Looks a bit like the #Colouring markers in terms of body and nib construction. If these are like the #Colouring markers, I'm really sorry- the #Colouring markers are terrible, as blog and YT fans will soon find out.- As these markers are not listed in the SketchBox store, I'm going to base the price off the #Colouring markers by Art Alternatives- $10.84-$11.79 for 5 piece set on Amazon (est. price- $2.36 each)Kuretake Refillable Fudepen- I'm not sure what model this is- Sharon didn't read the package or the card, and is not familiar enough with fude pens to recognize the modelZig Clean Color Real brush Marker- $3.40 on Jetpens
Retail Value: $19.83 (minus cost of fude pen)SketchBox Premium: $30+$5 shipping
Normally I woudn't comment on the Premium boxes shared here- I like to let them speak for themselves, but Sharon Cullen has been pretty vocal about SketchBox (both positive and negative) over the months, and I didn't feel comfortable sharing this video without making a few comments.Sharon and I apparently have very different views on how SketchBox is run. I've gotten so many Basic Basic boxes (as compared to really decked out Premium boxes), that I feel that SketchBox is funding their system on anemic Basic Boxes. I agree with Sharon that SketchBox is probably filling the box on price, rather than on quality, but I wouldn't go so far as to say they have no artists on staff- just artists who only work in specific media (perhaps all digital?), and while I dislike how Jon handles customer service on Youtube, I've had positive experiences reporting missing items. I generally try to keep my SketchBox correspondence short and sweet, and would never go so far as to accuse them of being 'young' or insinuate that because I dislike what's in my box, the curators must not be artists.
It's obvious to me that the two of us have very artistic backgrounds- which is great- but also a reason to be wary. Sharon seems to come from the fine art school- she dislikes markers, is unfamiliar with brush and fude pens, and has very strong opinions on what makes someone an artist. I come from the commerical side of things- comics and kid lit art- and my bread and butter are markers and fude pens (I've reviewed so many of them here on this blog!) When you're unfamiliar with a product, it's important to do your research and familiarize yourself with others who know the product, before passing judgement. For example, Sharon frequently claims that the pens have Chinese written on them- that's Japanese. Kuretake is a Japanese company. SketchBox has sent Kuretake products before. There have been past opportunities to look into that, and to find out that fude pens are considered brush pens. The complaints about markers also seem a bit over the top- most of these art subscription boxes include a marker a month, a markers are inexpensive in bulk, super cheap to ship, and almost everyone likes them. Like color pencils, markers are low mess, low barrier for entry, and seem a natural fit for art supply subscription services. What's confusing to me is the preference SketchBox places on alcohol markers, no matter how poorly constructed, over waterbased markers- they're two different media. Waterbased markers are not a cheap alternative to alcohol markers, and a cheap alcohol marker is much worse than children's grade supplies like Crayola markers.
The Verdict
Yet again, this is a close call, as I really liked both boxes. In the end, I'm going to say ArtSnacks, because I was able to utilize more of the materials included (the Supracolors were much appreciated), but I was also very pleased with my four pack of Kuretake Clean Color Real Brush markers.
In the end, I used both boxes as water media- I used the two Higgins markers for a variation on inkwash, the Kuretake Real Brush Markers as watercolor markers, and the Supracolor watercolor pencils as watercolors and watercolor pencils.
The Winner: ArtSnacks
This is the end of my year long ArtSnacks Vs SketchBox series here on the blog and on my Youtube channel. Keep your eyes peeled for my year in review recap, and if you've missed a month, please check out the ArtSnacks Vs SketchBox series page for everything- blogposts, bonus boxes, and videos. If you haven't, I highly recommend you watch all of my Challenge videos, as they serve as tutorials for the media used.
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.
This unboxing and overview was brought to you thanks to the generosity of my backers on Patreon, and was sponsored by 7" Kara,Volume 1. 7" Kara is an ongoing children's watercolor comic set in rural Louisiana, and follows the adventures of tiny Lilliputian Kara as she discovers humans, explores the back yard, and befriends a kitten. Volume 1 is available now in the Natto-shop, just in time for Christmas!
We're nearing the end of our ArtSnacks Vs. SketchBox year of unboxings. I plan on ending this series in January, but if you enjoy it, and would like to see it continue, there are a few ways you can accomplish that. You can write to ArtSnacks and SketchBox and let them know how much you value my content, especially my reviews. You can also join the Patreon community and make your voice heard.
Special November Thanks To My Patreon Backers
Please note: I have linked backer webcomics/blogs when I have access to them. If you are a backer who would like to have your project linked, please get in contact with me.
BeylaSam
Andrew Benedict
Boss Goose
Sarah
Leanna
Yolaine
Heidi Black
Bea
Entreat
Deserae
Chris
Mary Catherine
Virginia Williams
Hoff
Ace
Wayne Norris
Yusagi
Michael Suriano
Lee
Ryan
Chandra
Rob
Previous SketchBox Vs. ArtSnacks
January- Winner: ArtSnacks
February- Winner: SketchBox
March- Winner: ArtSnacks
April- Winner: ArtSnacks
May- Winner: ArtSnacks
June- Winner: SketchBox
July- Winner: SketchBox
August- Winner: SketchBox
September- Winner: SketchBox
October- Winner: SketchBox
November- Winner: ArtSnacks
SketchBox: $25mo/$240 yr
ArtSnacks: $20mo/$200 yr
ArtSnacksUnboxing
December ArtSnacks Vs SketchBox- Becca Hillburn
Overview
Note: My photos of the cards have been lost. Please watch the unboxing video if you are interested in the cards.
The Brands:Caran d'Ache
Chartpak (Higgins)
Stabilo
Kum
Caran d'Ache Discovery Set
5 Supracolor Soft1 Full Blender BrightWatercolor pencilsSwiss MadeNot sold individually
Available in the Discovery Set L'esprit Des Alpes set on for $30.96 Amazon
Individual pencils are $2.56 openstock on DickBlick
Set of 12, $24.99 on DickBlick
Full blender bright: $4.99 on DickBlick
Value of this set: $17.79
Stabilo Point 88
fine 0.4waterbased fineliner
$1.00 openstock on Jetpens
$.95 on ArtSuppliesOnline
$.85 on DickBlick (select colors)
Higgins Black Magic
InkPump action1mm tipQuick DryingWaterproof Pigment InkBreakdown on various Higgins Inks
$4.75 on DickBlick
Kum Longpoint
Magnesium
$1.95 on Pencils.com
MSRP Total: $25.93
Lowest Retail Total: $25.34
ArtSnacks: $20 per month, inclu shipping
Demonstration:
The Supracolor II watercolor pencils disperse color with water quite readily, and seem a joy to paint with. They don't blend particularly well with the Full Bright Blender, but to be honest, I've never really cared for blenders with color pencils anyway.
As to be expected of a Kum product, the Longpoint sharpener sharpens quite well- yet another great sharpener for the pencil case. Earlier in the year, ArtSnacks sent the Palomino Longpoint in one of their boxes, and it's found a regular home in my color pencil sketching kit, and sees frequent use.
Challenge
SketchBoxUnboxing
OverviewThe Brands:Kuretake ZigPentelChartpak (Higgins)
Zig Clean Color Real Brush 4 Pack
Set of 4 ColorsNylon bristleswaterbased/watercolormade in Japan
$13.89 with Prime on Amazon
$10.48 on Marker Supply
$12.35 on DickBlick
Kuretake No 55
Double sidedHard and Soft tips
$4.20 on Jetpens
$3.53 on Amazon with free shipping
Pentel Touch Fude Pen
12 total colors
$2.50 each on Jetpens
$4.24 on Amazon
Higgins- India Ink
water-resistant finishPigment InkPump Action1mm tipQuick Drying
http://www.higginsinks.com/inkspecs
$4.75 on DickBlick
MSRP Total: $27.39
Lowest Retail Total: $21.26
SketchBox Basic: $25 + $5 shipped
Demonstration:
The Kuretake No 55's hard tip is not really a brush tip at all- it's like a hard fiber fineliner. The Soft tip is the same brush found on the No. 6 and the No 33, as well as the Zig Art and Graphic Twin markers. I love that tip.
The Zig Clean Color Real brush markers blend well with water, and blend VERY well marker into marker on watercolor paper. I can't wait to field test these!
Challenge
Draw with Me- Winter Satsumas with Clean Color Real Brush-Becca Hillburn
Higgins Vs Higgins
Notes: The two Higgins markers are actually different- ArtSnacks is Black Magic, Sketchbox is India Ink. This is great news, as it allows for head to head competition.
Higgins india ink desperses faster in water than Higgins Black Magic.
SketchBox Premium
Sketchbox Unboxing December-Sharon Cullen Art
2 Kuretake Bimoji Fude Pens- Small and Medium- $3.50 each on JetpensSketchBox Signature Brush Marker Set (Includes a blender) (3 Pastels)-Looks a bit like the #Colouring markers in terms of body and nib construction. If these are like the #Colouring markers, I'm really sorry- the #Colouring markers are terrible, as blog and YT fans will soon find out.- As these markers are not listed in the SketchBox store, I'm going to base the price off the #Colouring markers by Art Alternatives- $10.84-$11.79 for 5 piece set on Amazon (est. price- $2.36 each)Kuretake Refillable Fudepen- I'm not sure what model this is- Sharon didn't read the package or the card, and is not familiar enough with fude pens to recognize the modelZig Clean Color Real brush Marker- $3.40 on Jetpens
Retail Value: $19.83 (minus cost of fude pen)SketchBox Premium: $30+$5 shipping
Normally I woudn't comment on the Premium boxes shared here- I like to let them speak for themselves, but Sharon Cullen has been pretty vocal about SketchBox (both positive and negative) over the months, and I didn't feel comfortable sharing this video without making a few comments.Sharon and I apparently have very different views on how SketchBox is run. I've gotten so many Basic Basic boxes (as compared to really decked out Premium boxes), that I feel that SketchBox is funding their system on anemic Basic Boxes. I agree with Sharon that SketchBox is probably filling the box on price, rather than on quality, but I wouldn't go so far as to say they have no artists on staff- just artists who only work in specific media (perhaps all digital?), and while I dislike how Jon handles customer service on Youtube, I've had positive experiences reporting missing items. I generally try to keep my SketchBox correspondence short and sweet, and would never go so far as to accuse them of being 'young' or insinuate that because I dislike what's in my box, the curators must not be artists.
It's obvious to me that the two of us have very artistic backgrounds- which is great- but also a reason to be wary. Sharon seems to come from the fine art school- she dislikes markers, is unfamiliar with brush and fude pens, and has very strong opinions on what makes someone an artist. I come from the commerical side of things- comics and kid lit art- and my bread and butter are markers and fude pens (I've reviewed so many of them here on this blog!) When you're unfamiliar with a product, it's important to do your research and familiarize yourself with others who know the product, before passing judgement. For example, Sharon frequently claims that the pens have Chinese written on them- that's Japanese. Kuretake is a Japanese company. SketchBox has sent Kuretake products before. There have been past opportunities to look into that, and to find out that fude pens are considered brush pens. The complaints about markers also seem a bit over the top- most of these art subscription boxes include a marker a month, a markers are inexpensive in bulk, super cheap to ship, and almost everyone likes them. Like color pencils, markers are low mess, low barrier for entry, and seem a natural fit for art supply subscription services. What's confusing to me is the preference SketchBox places on alcohol markers, no matter how poorly constructed, over waterbased markers- they're two different media. Waterbased markers are not a cheap alternative to alcohol markers, and a cheap alcohol marker is much worse than children's grade supplies like Crayola markers.
The Verdict
Yet again, this is a close call, as I really liked both boxes. In the end, I'm going to say ArtSnacks, because I was able to utilize more of the materials included (the Supracolors were much appreciated), but I was also very pleased with my four pack of Kuretake Clean Color Real Brush markers.
In the end, I used both boxes as water media- I used the two Higgins markers for a variation on inkwash, the Kuretake Real Brush Markers as watercolor markers, and the Supracolor watercolor pencils as watercolors and watercolor pencils.
The Winner: ArtSnacks
This is the end of my year long ArtSnacks Vs SketchBox series here on the blog and on my Youtube channel. Keep your eyes peeled for my year in review recap, and if you've missed a month, please check out the ArtSnacks Vs SketchBox series page for everything- blogposts, bonus boxes, and videos. If you haven't, I highly recommend you watch all of my Challenge videos, as they serve as tutorials for the media used.
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.
January 13, 2017
November ArtSnacks Vs SketchBox Basic
Thanks to Denise Hillburn (my mother) for the gift of ArtSnacks for the year! SketchBox Basic subscription purchased by me out of personal funds. If you would like to help support this blog, and continue posts like this, please consider donating to my Paypal, or contributing to
my Patreon
. Future unboxings and reviews are unlocked to the public at the $15 level each month, but backers have access regardless of funds raised. Posts like this are only possible through the support of my Backers, so if you enjoy this content, please check it out and consider joining.
This unboxing and overview was brought to you thanks to the generosity of my backers on Patreon, and was sponsored by 7" Kara,Volume 1. 7" Kara is an ongoing children's watercolor comic set in rural Louisiana, and follows the adventures of tiny Lilliputian Kara as she discovers humans, explores the back yard, and befriends a kitten. Volume 1 is available now in the Natto-shop, just in time for Christmas!
We're nearing the end of our ArtSnacks Vs. SketchBox year of unboxings. I plan on ending this series in January, but if you enjoy it, and would like to see it continue, there are a few ways you can accomplish that. You can write to ArtSnacks and SketchBox and let them know how much you value my content, especially my reviews. You can also join the Patreon community and make your voice heard.
Special October Thanks To My Patreon Backers
Please note: I have linked backer webcomics/blogs when I have access to them. If you are a backer who would like to have your project linked, please get in contact with me.
Sam
Andrew Benedict
Boss Goose
Leanna
Yolaine
Heidi Black
Entreat
Deserae
Chris
Mary Catherine
Virginia Williams
Hoff
Wayne Norris
Yusagi
Michael Suriano
Lee
Ryan
Chandra
Previous SketchBox Vs. ArtSnacks
January- Winner: ArtSnacks
February- Winner: SketchBox
March- Winner: ArtSnacks
April- Winner: ArtSnacks
May- Winner: ArtSnacks
June- Winner: SketchBox
July- Winner: SketchBox
August- Winner: SketchBox
September- Winner: SketchBox
October- Winner: SketchBox
SketchBox: $25mo/$240 yr
ArtSnacks: $20mo/$200 yr
ArtSnacksThe BrandsLegion
Marabu
Molotow
Pentel
Plumchester (ArtSnacks Brand)
The Unboxing
November ArtSnacks V SketchBox Unboxing- Becca Hillburn
The Overview
November ArtSnacks V SketchBox Overview- Becca Hillburn
The Cards
The Card Reads:
Here's what's on the Menu for November:
What kind of shoes does an artist wear?
Plumchester 1.5 Fine Brush Pen$2.99 retail
New Product ArtSnacks Exclusive
For the last few months, we've been working on our very own brand of art supplies! Introducing Plumchester: Creative tools for the modern artist. Our first product is the Plumchester 1.5 Fine Brush Pen. The diameter of the firm nib is 1.5 millimeters, and it will spring back to its original shape after use. The ink in this pen is pigmented, fade-proof, and water-proof when dry. A soft touch will give you a finer mark, but use a heavy touch for thicker lines. Plumchester will officially launch in 2017- to stay updated, go to www.Plumchester.com and submit your email address.
Molotow Grafx Aqua Ink Pump Softliner
$14.95 retail
Staff Favorite The Molotow GRAFX Aqua Ink Pump Softliner features water-based ink and a soft brush tip. This tool will stay with you for the long term- you can refill the ink, and you can even swap out the tip. To begin using your MOLOTOW, shake it well; pump the brush softly using the tip of the marker cap until you see ink seeping into the brush tip; scribble until the tip is fully colored- and then you're ready to draw!
Please note: Ue the cap of this marker to activate the paint into the marker tip. Take a close look at the marker's body for illustrated directions
Marabu Mixed Media Art Spray$5.99 retailNew to ArtSnacks
Ready to try something totally different in your next art project? Marabu Mixed Media Art Spray is a waterbased acrylic that can blend with other colors. It's ideal for use with stencils or as a surface primer for colorful creations. You'll get different effects depending on how close you spray and the angle of the sprayer over the paper.
Pentel Arts Sign Pen Brush$2.99 retail
Depending on how you hold it, the Pentel Arts Sign Pen Brush can give you the most delicate of fine lines, or it can lay down a bold line. Adjust the pen tip angle and pressure just a little, and see how versatile this tool is- it's great for lettering! This pen brush also features water-based ink.
Stongehenge Aqua Coldpress Mini Pad
BONUS ITEM
We can see why Stonehenge's new Aqua Coldpress watercolor paper has been getting incredible reviews! This paper can handle an amazing amount of water without warping or buckling, and it's also great for bblending and lifting color.
*Answer: Sketchers
Take the ArtSnacks Challenge!Use all of the products in your box to create an original piece of art. Snap a picture of your artwork and share it on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, or Instagram with the hashtag #artsnackschallenge
Inside The Box
The Price Breakdown:
Marabu Art Spray (Acrylic Art Spray)
$5.99 retail,
$4.79 on DickBlick, but my color (Red Orange) isn't listed
Molotow Grafx Aqua Ink Pump Softliner
$14.94 retail
6, 95 euros on the Molotow site
$8.99 on Art Primo
$79.54 with Prime, set of 6 markers on Amazon
Pentel Touch Sign Pen
$2.99 retail
$2.85 on Amazon (many options available, including sets)
$2.69 on DickBlick
Plumchester P1.5 Liner Pen
$2.99 retail, ArtSnacks Exclusive Brand that launches in 2017
Comparable Products:
Sakura Pigma Brush: $2.59 on DickBlick
Prismacolor Illustration Marker Brush: $2.39 on DickBlick
Copic Multiliner Brush: $2.79 on DickBlick
Pitt Pen: $2.05 on DickBlick
Legion Stonehenge Aqua Coldpress
Sample
7"x10" 140lb Block- $21.50 at Hyatt's Refills for the Aqua Ink Molotow
MSRP Total: $26.92
Lowest Retail Total: $19.46
ArtSnacks: $20 month shipped
Demonstration
Comparison Shot: Plumchester top, Micron bottom
Water test for the Molotow Aqua Pump Softliner.
Water-fastness demonstration for the Pentel Touch. These pens are VERY water soluble.
Testing out the Legion Aqua paper and Plumchester pen with watercolor.
My Thoughts:
The Plumchester handles just like the Sakura Pigma Micron it resembles- a fiber nib with no flex. Over exerting it quickly leaves you with a mushy nib that's good for nothing. The Legion watercolor paper is fine- it FEELS like 140lb watercolor paper, but sample size is so tiny, I can't really speak to as to whether or not it will buckle. Legion produces several watercolor papers, including Yupo and Bockingford.
Stongehenge Aqua, the paper sample I received in this November ArtSnacks, is available in hotpress, cold press, with deckled edges, and on blocks. The paper IS 100% cotton rag, which should make it ideal for blends and wet into wet if working in a larger size.
I've been excited about Molotow's watercolor and waterbased markers for awhile. In general, they're priced a bit out of my grasp, so I haven't made the investment (which would be a bit steep for review purposes), but I was really excited to see the Aqua Pump Softliner included in the November ArtSnacks. This line of watercolor markers (softliners?) only has 12 colors available, and each marker is not only refillable, but has replaceable nibs, which is good, as the fiber nib it comes with is going to break down fast.
Marabu is a German company that specializes in inks, specifically screenprinting inks. The Mixed Media spray included in this month's Artsnacks subscription box is acrylic based and features a shaker ball to help mix that media up.
The Challenge
November ArtSnacks Challenge- Mixed Media Alien
Creating and applying a simple mask using tracing paper
.
Malibu Mixed Media (acrylic) spray
Water sprayed onto Mixed Media spray while spray is wet.
Dripping wet mixed media spray in some areas to intensify and build up color.
The water sprays encouraged blooming, which was the intended effect.
Applying first layer of Pentel Touch,and using a waterbrush to dilute and move the ink.
Drawing in flowers with the Plumchester brush pen.
SketchBox BasicThe Brands
Tombow
Derwent (distributed in the US by Mead)
Koh-i-Noor
Faber-Castell
The Overview
See the ArtSnacks Overview section for the Overview video.
The Cards
The Card Reads:
SketchBox November Featured ArtistSarah Jayne Reed
Hi! I'm an artist and art educator residing in Central Ohio. I hold a Masters of Art with a Minor in Art History, though when it comes to much of my art, including colored pencil, I'm self-taught. Growing up with creative parents, I was drawing from the time I could hold a pencil. These days, the juggling process of having a full time career and attempting to pursue my art can be a struggle, but I try to make time each day to create. I am fascinated with color theory and am drawn to colored pencil and oil paints because of their layering capability, allowing colors to interact. I often choose subject matter that is visually appealing or meaningful to me. Family members, Boston Terriers, mythical creatures, crystals, and nature elements are often cornerstones in my artwork. I like my work to have a happy, fond, or nostalgic tone.
www.facebook.com/oppositeofordinaryst... @oppositeofordinarystudioswww.etsy.com...
We're so thankful for the talent that Sarah shared with us, if you'd like to get your art featured- email an example of your work to us at:
info@getsketchbox.com
SketchBox November Basic Box
Tombow Recycled Colored Pencil Set
Retail Price: $14.99
This month is all about blended colored pencil!
Beautifully crafted from cedar wood, these pencils are constructed using fingerjoint technology, which reduces waste during the manufacturing process and saves natural resources. The dense, wax-based cores in these artist-grade colored pencils are ideal for creating precise, detailed illustrations and sharp lines. A high pigment content assures brilliant, saturated colors, which also blend and layer well making it the perfect choice for this month's box!
2x Koh-i-noor Tri-tone pencils
Retail price $2.50 each
These innovative colored pencils add a depth and subtlety to your piece. Each lead is a combination of three colors meant to compliment each other. A truly unique approach to colored pencils.
Derwent Burnisher
Retail Price: $1.99 each
The burnisher i a hard, colorless pencil that creates a polished finish on top of existing layers of colors.
Derwent Blender
Retail Price: $1.99 each
The blender is a soft, colorless pencil used to blend colors together to create rich tones.
Faber-Castell Eraser Pencils
Retail Price: $6.00
Faber-Castell Eraser Pencils are perfect for erasing unwanted marks, fine point erasing and also creating unique eraser effects. They erase pencil (August box), color pencils, and charcoal (September box)
If you know someone who would love to receive SketchBox for the holidays be sure to sign up by November 20th so they can start receiving their boxes in time.
Have fun and remember to tag your art with #SketchBoxNOVEMBER if you'd like to be included in our monthly contest- winner gets their art printed on a future box lid!
Inside the Box
The Price Breakdown:
Tombow Recycled Color Pencils (12 piecs)
$14.99 MSRP
$10.69 on DickBlick
Faber Castell Eraser Pencils (2)
$6.00 MSRP
$2.39 openstock on DickBlick
Derwent Burnisher
$1.99 each MSRPDerwent Blender
$1.99 each MSRPThese are sold as a set on DickBlick with an eraser and sharpener: $7.39 on DickBlick
Koh-i-noor Tri Tone Color Pencil (2)
$2.50 each MSRP
Sold as a set of 12: $17.99 on Jerry's Artarama
Set of 24, $23.13 with Prime on Amazon
MSRP Total: $29.97
Retail Total: $25.36
SketchBox Basic: $25+$5 shipping
Demonstration
One of my Youtube viewers pointed out that the Tombow Recycled Pencils use the same leads as the Tombow Irojiten pencils. The colors are vibrant, but the leads are a bit hard.
The Challenge
November SketchBox Challenge- Kawaii Color Pencils
SketchBox PremiumSKETCHBOX- November 2016 - Doodlebonez
The Brands
Derwent
Faber-Castell
Koh-i-Noor
The Supplies
Derwent Burnisher & Blender Set: Includes 2 Burnishers, 2 Blenders, Eraser, Sharpener
Faber-Castell Perfectly Eraser Pencil with Brush
Koh-I-Noor Tri-Tone (11 Pencils, 1 Blender)The VerdictWhat it boils down to: The ArtSnacks had better art toys, the SketchBox had a more cohesive theme.
And this seems to be the case, month after month. ArtSnacks is great for artists who enjoy GOOD artist toys- professional quality artist toys, and SketchBox (both Basic and Premium) is for artists who want to create a cohesive piece with the materials inside.
SketchBox is better for creating YouTube videos, ArtSnacks is better for reviewers who know their supplies.
In the YouTube community, this box saw a lot of contention. I don't' know how I managed to avoid that mess, but I found it easier to create a coherent piece with the Basic Box than it was to create a piece with the ArtSnacks. That said, I wasn't excited by anything sent in the Basic Box, and did not find it particularly inspiring, whereas there were several products in the November ArtSnacks that I was excited to try.
A little rant, since so many people are talking about Plumchester:
From what I've seen, ArtSnacks is not offering anything new- the one example of the Plumchester brand that's available to the public is almost identical to a Sakura Micron Brush pen, from body design to the make up of the tip. Artists do not need yet another boutique copycat brand that pumps out the same mediocre to poor fineliners, brushpens, alcohol markers, and colored pencils. The trend of coloring books aimed at adults has already seen an influx of poorly made, well marketed art supplies- we're already spoiled for choice when it comes to mediocrity.
What artists REALLY need are well designed products that offer something new or innovative- not a rebrand of existing fineliners and brushpens. Given the history of ArtSnacks- founded by artists, inspired by artists, does collaborations with artists, and years of supplying their subscription boxes with quality art supplies - I expected better, and hold out hope that perhaps my complaints might hold some weight. ArtSnacks has partnerships with many excellent art supply brands, and has plenty of examples to work from, so releasing sub part supplies with the Plumchester brand is not an acceptable option. I definitely plan on keeping an eye on Plumchester, and purchasing pieces for review as they are released.
I feel like this month, ArtSnacks had the best value for your buck, with several new supplies (excluding the ArtSnacks exclusive, the Plumchester brushpen, because of course that would be new) to play with.
The Winner: ArtSnacks
Previously Reviewed Products:
Pentel Touch Sign Pen
Pentel Touch Sign Pen Revisited (12 Color Set)
Outside Resources:
For loads of color pencil tutorials: Lachri Fine Art
Basics to Blending in Colored Pencil- Prismacolor and Polychromos
Find Me Elsewhere:
For Daily Updates: www.instagram.com/Nattosoup
To chat: www.twitter.com/Nattosoup
For more art tutorials, supply reviews, and con recaps: www.nattosoup.blogspot.com
For convention how-tos: www.howtobeaconartist.tumblr.com
To help support online art education: www.patreon.com/Nattosoup
For my portfolio: www.behance.com/Nattosoup
For digital downloads: www.gumroad.com/nattosoup
For physical goodies: www.nattosoup.com/products
For my comic: www.nattosoup.com/kara-comic
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.
This unboxing and overview was brought to you thanks to the generosity of my backers on Patreon, and was sponsored by 7" Kara,Volume 1. 7" Kara is an ongoing children's watercolor comic set in rural Louisiana, and follows the adventures of tiny Lilliputian Kara as she discovers humans, explores the back yard, and befriends a kitten. Volume 1 is available now in the Natto-shop, just in time for Christmas!
We're nearing the end of our ArtSnacks Vs. SketchBox year of unboxings. I plan on ending this series in January, but if you enjoy it, and would like to see it continue, there are a few ways you can accomplish that. You can write to ArtSnacks and SketchBox and let them know how much you value my content, especially my reviews. You can also join the Patreon community and make your voice heard.
Special October Thanks To My Patreon Backers
Please note: I have linked backer webcomics/blogs when I have access to them. If you are a backer who would like to have your project linked, please get in contact with me.
Sam
Andrew Benedict
Boss Goose
Leanna
Yolaine
Heidi Black
Entreat
Deserae
Chris
Mary Catherine
Virginia Williams
Hoff
Wayne Norris
Yusagi
Michael Suriano
Lee
Ryan
Chandra
Previous SketchBox Vs. ArtSnacks
January- Winner: ArtSnacks
February- Winner: SketchBox
March- Winner: ArtSnacks
April- Winner: ArtSnacks
May- Winner: ArtSnacks
June- Winner: SketchBox
July- Winner: SketchBox
August- Winner: SketchBox
September- Winner: SketchBox
October- Winner: SketchBox
SketchBox: $25mo/$240 yr
ArtSnacks: $20mo/$200 yr
ArtSnacksThe BrandsLegion
Marabu
Molotow
Pentel
Plumchester (ArtSnacks Brand)
The Unboxing
November ArtSnacks V SketchBox Unboxing- Becca Hillburn
The Overview
November ArtSnacks V SketchBox Overview- Becca Hillburn
The Cards
The Card Reads:Here's what's on the Menu for November:
What kind of shoes does an artist wear?
Plumchester 1.5 Fine Brush Pen$2.99 retail
New Product ArtSnacks Exclusive
For the last few months, we've been working on our very own brand of art supplies! Introducing Plumchester: Creative tools for the modern artist. Our first product is the Plumchester 1.5 Fine Brush Pen. The diameter of the firm nib is 1.5 millimeters, and it will spring back to its original shape after use. The ink in this pen is pigmented, fade-proof, and water-proof when dry. A soft touch will give you a finer mark, but use a heavy touch for thicker lines. Plumchester will officially launch in 2017- to stay updated, go to www.Plumchester.com and submit your email address.
Molotow Grafx Aqua Ink Pump Softliner
$14.95 retail
Staff Favorite The Molotow GRAFX Aqua Ink Pump Softliner features water-based ink and a soft brush tip. This tool will stay with you for the long term- you can refill the ink, and you can even swap out the tip. To begin using your MOLOTOW, shake it well; pump the brush softly using the tip of the marker cap until you see ink seeping into the brush tip; scribble until the tip is fully colored- and then you're ready to draw!
Please note: Ue the cap of this marker to activate the paint into the marker tip. Take a close look at the marker's body for illustrated directions
Marabu Mixed Media Art Spray$5.99 retailNew to ArtSnacks
Ready to try something totally different in your next art project? Marabu Mixed Media Art Spray is a waterbased acrylic that can blend with other colors. It's ideal for use with stencils or as a surface primer for colorful creations. You'll get different effects depending on how close you spray and the angle of the sprayer over the paper.
Pentel Arts Sign Pen Brush$2.99 retail
Depending on how you hold it, the Pentel Arts Sign Pen Brush can give you the most delicate of fine lines, or it can lay down a bold line. Adjust the pen tip angle and pressure just a little, and see how versatile this tool is- it's great for lettering! This pen brush also features water-based ink.
Stongehenge Aqua Coldpress Mini Pad
BONUS ITEM
We can see why Stonehenge's new Aqua Coldpress watercolor paper has been getting incredible reviews! This paper can handle an amazing amount of water without warping or buckling, and it's also great for bblending and lifting color.
*Answer: Sketchers
Take the ArtSnacks Challenge!Use all of the products in your box to create an original piece of art. Snap a picture of your artwork and share it on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, or Instagram with the hashtag #artsnackschallenge
Inside The Box
The Price Breakdown:
Marabu Art Spray (Acrylic Art Spray)
$5.99 retail,
$4.79 on DickBlick, but my color (Red Orange) isn't listed
Molotow Grafx Aqua Ink Pump Softliner
$14.94 retail
6, 95 euros on the Molotow site
$8.99 on Art Primo
$79.54 with Prime, set of 6 markers on Amazon
Pentel Touch Sign Pen
$2.99 retail
$2.85 on Amazon (many options available, including sets)
$2.69 on DickBlick
Plumchester P1.5 Liner Pen
$2.99 retail, ArtSnacks Exclusive Brand that launches in 2017
Comparable Products:
Sakura Pigma Brush: $2.59 on DickBlick
Prismacolor Illustration Marker Brush: $2.39 on DickBlick
Copic Multiliner Brush: $2.79 on DickBlick
Pitt Pen: $2.05 on DickBlick
Legion Stonehenge Aqua Coldpress
Sample
7"x10" 140lb Block- $21.50 at Hyatt's Refills for the Aqua Ink Molotow
MSRP Total: $26.92
Lowest Retail Total: $19.46
ArtSnacks: $20 month shipped
Demonstration
Comparison Shot: Plumchester top, Micron bottom
Water test for the Molotow Aqua Pump Softliner.
Water-fastness demonstration for the Pentel Touch. These pens are VERY water soluble.
Testing out the Legion Aqua paper and Plumchester pen with watercolor.
My Thoughts:
The Plumchester handles just like the Sakura Pigma Micron it resembles- a fiber nib with no flex. Over exerting it quickly leaves you with a mushy nib that's good for nothing. The Legion watercolor paper is fine- it FEELS like 140lb watercolor paper, but sample size is so tiny, I can't really speak to as to whether or not it will buckle. Legion produces several watercolor papers, including Yupo and Bockingford.
Stongehenge Aqua, the paper sample I received in this November ArtSnacks, is available in hotpress, cold press, with deckled edges, and on blocks. The paper IS 100% cotton rag, which should make it ideal for blends and wet into wet if working in a larger size.
I've been excited about Molotow's watercolor and waterbased markers for awhile. In general, they're priced a bit out of my grasp, so I haven't made the investment (which would be a bit steep for review purposes), but I was really excited to see the Aqua Pump Softliner included in the November ArtSnacks. This line of watercolor markers (softliners?) only has 12 colors available, and each marker is not only refillable, but has replaceable nibs, which is good, as the fiber nib it comes with is going to break down fast.
Marabu is a German company that specializes in inks, specifically screenprinting inks. The Mixed Media spray included in this month's Artsnacks subscription box is acrylic based and features a shaker ball to help mix that media up.
The Challenge
November ArtSnacks Challenge- Mixed Media Alien
Creating and applying a simple mask using tracing paper.
Malibu Mixed Media (acrylic) spray
Water sprayed onto Mixed Media spray while spray is wet.
Dripping wet mixed media spray in some areas to intensify and build up color.
The water sprays encouraged blooming, which was the intended effect.
Applying first layer of Pentel Touch,and using a waterbrush to dilute and move the ink.
Drawing in flowers with the Plumchester brush pen.
SketchBox BasicThe Brands
Tombow
Derwent (distributed in the US by Mead)
Koh-i-Noor
Faber-Castell
The Overview
See the ArtSnacks Overview section for the Overview video.
The Cards
The Card Reads:
SketchBox November Featured ArtistSarah Jayne Reed
Hi! I'm an artist and art educator residing in Central Ohio. I hold a Masters of Art with a Minor in Art History, though when it comes to much of my art, including colored pencil, I'm self-taught. Growing up with creative parents, I was drawing from the time I could hold a pencil. These days, the juggling process of having a full time career and attempting to pursue my art can be a struggle, but I try to make time each day to create. I am fascinated with color theory and am drawn to colored pencil and oil paints because of their layering capability, allowing colors to interact. I often choose subject matter that is visually appealing or meaningful to me. Family members, Boston Terriers, mythical creatures, crystals, and nature elements are often cornerstones in my artwork. I like my work to have a happy, fond, or nostalgic tone.
www.facebook.com/oppositeofordinaryst... @oppositeofordinarystudioswww.etsy.com...
We're so thankful for the talent that Sarah shared with us, if you'd like to get your art featured- email an example of your work to us at:
info@getsketchbox.com
SketchBox November Basic BoxTombow Recycled Colored Pencil Set
Retail Price: $14.99
This month is all about blended colored pencil!
Beautifully crafted from cedar wood, these pencils are constructed using fingerjoint technology, which reduces waste during the manufacturing process and saves natural resources. The dense, wax-based cores in these artist-grade colored pencils are ideal for creating precise, detailed illustrations and sharp lines. A high pigment content assures brilliant, saturated colors, which also blend and layer well making it the perfect choice for this month's box!
2x Koh-i-noor Tri-tone pencils
Retail price $2.50 each
These innovative colored pencils add a depth and subtlety to your piece. Each lead is a combination of three colors meant to compliment each other. A truly unique approach to colored pencils.
Derwent Burnisher
Retail Price: $1.99 each
The burnisher i a hard, colorless pencil that creates a polished finish on top of existing layers of colors.
Derwent Blender
Retail Price: $1.99 each
The blender is a soft, colorless pencil used to blend colors together to create rich tones.
Faber-Castell Eraser Pencils
Retail Price: $6.00
Faber-Castell Eraser Pencils are perfect for erasing unwanted marks, fine point erasing and also creating unique eraser effects. They erase pencil (August box), color pencils, and charcoal (September box)
If you know someone who would love to receive SketchBox for the holidays be sure to sign up by November 20th so they can start receiving their boxes in time.
Have fun and remember to tag your art with #SketchBoxNOVEMBER if you'd like to be included in our monthly contest- winner gets their art printed on a future box lid!
Inside the Box
The Price Breakdown:
Tombow Recycled Color Pencils (12 piecs)
$14.99 MSRP
$10.69 on DickBlick
Faber Castell Eraser Pencils (2)
$6.00 MSRP
$2.39 openstock on DickBlick
Derwent Burnisher
$1.99 each MSRPDerwent Blender
$1.99 each MSRPThese are sold as a set on DickBlick with an eraser and sharpener: $7.39 on DickBlick
Koh-i-noor Tri Tone Color Pencil (2)
$2.50 each MSRP
Sold as a set of 12: $17.99 on Jerry's Artarama
Set of 24, $23.13 with Prime on Amazon
MSRP Total: $29.97
Retail Total: $25.36
SketchBox Basic: $25+$5 shipping
Demonstration
One of my Youtube viewers pointed out that the Tombow Recycled Pencils use the same leads as the Tombow Irojiten pencils. The colors are vibrant, but the leads are a bit hard.
The Challenge
November SketchBox Challenge- Kawaii Color Pencils
SketchBox PremiumSKETCHBOX- November 2016 - Doodlebonez
The Brands
Derwent
Faber-Castell
Koh-i-Noor
The Supplies
Derwent Burnisher & Blender Set: Includes 2 Burnishers, 2 Blenders, Eraser, Sharpener
Faber-Castell Perfectly Eraser Pencil with Brush
Koh-I-Noor Tri-Tone (11 Pencils, 1 Blender)The VerdictWhat it boils down to: The ArtSnacks had better art toys, the SketchBox had a more cohesive theme.
And this seems to be the case, month after month. ArtSnacks is great for artists who enjoy GOOD artist toys- professional quality artist toys, and SketchBox (both Basic and Premium) is for artists who want to create a cohesive piece with the materials inside.
SketchBox is better for creating YouTube videos, ArtSnacks is better for reviewers who know their supplies.
In the YouTube community, this box saw a lot of contention. I don't' know how I managed to avoid that mess, but I found it easier to create a coherent piece with the Basic Box than it was to create a piece with the ArtSnacks. That said, I wasn't excited by anything sent in the Basic Box, and did not find it particularly inspiring, whereas there were several products in the November ArtSnacks that I was excited to try.
A little rant, since so many people are talking about Plumchester:
From what I've seen, ArtSnacks is not offering anything new- the one example of the Plumchester brand that's available to the public is almost identical to a Sakura Micron Brush pen, from body design to the make up of the tip. Artists do not need yet another boutique copycat brand that pumps out the same mediocre to poor fineliners, brushpens, alcohol markers, and colored pencils. The trend of coloring books aimed at adults has already seen an influx of poorly made, well marketed art supplies- we're already spoiled for choice when it comes to mediocrity.
What artists REALLY need are well designed products that offer something new or innovative- not a rebrand of existing fineliners and brushpens. Given the history of ArtSnacks- founded by artists, inspired by artists, does collaborations with artists, and years of supplying their subscription boxes with quality art supplies - I expected better, and hold out hope that perhaps my complaints might hold some weight. ArtSnacks has partnerships with many excellent art supply brands, and has plenty of examples to work from, so releasing sub part supplies with the Plumchester brand is not an acceptable option. I definitely plan on keeping an eye on Plumchester, and purchasing pieces for review as they are released.
I feel like this month, ArtSnacks had the best value for your buck, with several new supplies (excluding the ArtSnacks exclusive, the Plumchester brushpen, because of course that would be new) to play with.
The Winner: ArtSnacks
Previously Reviewed Products:
Pentel Touch Sign Pen
Pentel Touch Sign Pen Revisited (12 Color Set)
Outside Resources:
For loads of color pencil tutorials: Lachri Fine Art
Basics to Blending in Colored Pencil- Prismacolor and Polychromos
Find Me Elsewhere:
For Daily Updates: www.instagram.com/Nattosoup
To chat: www.twitter.com/Nattosoup
For more art tutorials, supply reviews, and con recaps: www.nattosoup.blogspot.com
For convention how-tos: www.howtobeaconartist.tumblr.com
To help support online art education: www.patreon.com/Nattosoup
For my portfolio: www.behance.com/Nattosoup
For digital downloads: www.gumroad.com/nattosoup
For physical goodies: www.nattosoup.com/products
For my comic: www.nattosoup.com/kara-comic
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.
January 11, 2017
Recent Digital Art
As many of you know, I've been working on developing my kid lit art and children's book illustration portfolio, particularly for digital illustration. Although I have a bachelor's in hypermedia (digital art), I have to admit that outside of touchups and freelance work, it's a fairly neglected media for me. Although I greatly prefer watercolor (and even marker) to digital, part of that is simply due to being able to hold the physical piece in my hands.
Unfortunately, it seems that most employers would prefer a strong body of digital art when hiring freelancers, so when I decided to revamp my portfolio, I knew I needed to brush up on digital art and get cracking.
Below are some of my most recent pieces. If you like what you see, and you're in a position to hire an artist, don't hesitate to contact me- I'm always looking for work. I'm also available for private commissions if you like my style, but only want to contact me for one or two pieces. My shop should give you an idea of pricing, but please contact me for a customized quote.
Traditional Inks, Digital Color (Photoshop)
Traditional Sketch, Digital Inks, Digital Colors (Manga Studio, Photoshop)
All Digital (Varies)
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.
Unfortunately, it seems that most employers would prefer a strong body of digital art when hiring freelancers, so when I decided to revamp my portfolio, I knew I needed to brush up on digital art and get cracking.
Below are some of my most recent pieces. If you like what you see, and you're in a position to hire an artist, don't hesitate to contact me- I'm always looking for work. I'm also available for private commissions if you like my style, but only want to contact me for one or two pieces. My shop should give you an idea of pricing, but please contact me for a customized quote.
Traditional Inks, Digital Color (Photoshop)
Traditional Sketch, Digital Inks, Digital Colors (Manga Studio, Photoshop)
All Digital (Varies)
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.
