Let's Make a One Page Auto Biographical Comic

In this video, you'll be a selecting the memory or life event that you'll be basing your auto-bio comic on.

Now that you have determined which memory you'll base your comic on, it's time to write out a script for it. The script can contain dialogue from multiple characters or narration from your point of view. It's important to be truthful, but also keep in mind that you can adapt the script if needed to better fit the layout, tone or theme of your comic.

Now that you have written your script, it's time to figure out how your words will fit on the page. Remember that we're making a one page comic, so your script should fit comfortably within a single page. You'll know your script is too long and needs to be condensed if your panels feature a paragraph of text.

Comics are a visual medium and showing should always be more important than telling. If you have a character that is upset, drawing them crying or burying their face in their hands can do a better job of conveying the message of "I am sad," than words can.

Now that you've determined how your page will be laid out (where your text will go, how many panels you will have, etc.), it's time to begin pencilling your comic by roughly drawing out the characters and backgrounds within each panel. If you're not happy with any aspect of the comic, this is a good time to make any changes or edit since the pencils stage is kind of like a cartoon's first draft.

Lettering is often over-looked in the comic making process. It's important to keep your lettering clear and simple so that your audience can understand your story and be encouraged to read your comic from beginning to end. Good lettering aids in the visual storytelling process, so don't ignore it!

If you're not going to be introducing color or shading to your comic, inking would be the final stage in your comic (although if you're working digitally like I am, it is much easier to make edits and revisions if you need to). Much like many of the other visuals in your comic, your inks should reflect the overall tone and mood of the story. You could go for thin and delicate lines if you're telling a tender romance, or sketchy and bold lines if your comic is about a chaotic and angst-ridden memory. There are many ways to ink a comic and it helps to look at how other cartoonists have inked their work for inspiration.

If you're not planning on coloring your comic, you can skip this step. As I usually have at least some color to my auto-bio comics, I decided to include my process for you. Try to select colors that best reflect the overall tone or theme of your cartoon; if your comic is serious and brooding - a darker color palette may be best. But if your story is more tender and sweet, maybe a pastel color palette would suit that comic better.

Thank you so much for taking the time to take this class. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. I would love to see your finished comic, so feel free to send me a link to view it.