How to use a sketchbook

Comic Lab

SHOW NOTE: Brad's microphone had some technical difficulties this week. Please excuse the momentary dip in sound quality. This week, we're talking about the right way to use a sketchbook. Also, is it a good idea to abandon social media completely and replace it with blogging?

SUMMARY

The hosts discuss the different ways they use sketchbooks and emphasize that there is no right or wrong way to use them. They encourage listeners to use sketchbooks in a way that feels comfortable and authentic to them. They also caution against comparing one's own sketchbook to the highlight reels of other artists on social media. The hosts share their personal experiences with sketchbooks and offer insights into their own creative processes. In this part of the conversation, Brad and Dave discuss the role of sketchbooks in their creative process and the challenges of single-panel comics. In this episode, they also explore the idea of using personal blogs as an alternative or supplement to social media. While they acknowledge the decline in social media's utility, they emphasize the importance of maintaining a presence on multiple platforms to reach both existing and potential readers. They suggest forming cross-promotional networks and support groups to supplement social media efforts. Overall, they recommend a balanced approach that includes blogging, social media, and other strategies to engage and grow an audience.

TAKEAWAYS

• There is no right or wrong way to use a sketchbook; use it in a way that feels comfortable and authentic to you.
• Don't compare your sketchbook to the highlight reels of other artists on social media; everyone's sketchbook is filled with mistakes and experiments.
• Sketchbooks can be used for writing, doodling, experimenting with dialogue, and working out story beats.
• The quality of the paper or the type of binding doesn't matter; what matters is how you use the sketchbook.
• Don't be afraid to tear out or discard pages in your sketchbook if you're not happy with them.
• Your sketchbook should reflect your unique creative process and experimentation. Sketchbooks are valuable tools for brainstorming and generating ideas, especially for single-panel comics.
• While social media's utility has declined, it is still important to maintain a presence on multiple platforms to reach both existing and potential readers.
• Blogging can be a useful supplement to social media, but it should not replace it entirely.
• Consider forming cross-promotional networks and support groups to expand your reach and engage with new readers.

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.