Richard Hall Online

A Methodist Minister Blogging like it’s 2006

Lessons from a novice zine maker

My first zine

First, it turns out that making a decent quality zine is really, really easy. Companies like Mixam make getting a zine printed very simple. If you have digital versions of your photos and know your way round your computer sufficient to create a pdf, there is no reason why you shouldn’t make a zine of your own.

Second, getting a zine printed is relatively inexpensive, but not free. Don’t spend more on your printing than you can afford to lose. You can’t expect others to care as much about your zine as you do. They may not be lining up to buy it the first time you mention it on your socials. Set aside the ambition to earn a fortune from your zine-making.

Don’t be disheartened if it doesn’t sell out overnight. Be proud of your work. If you meet indifference, don’t be dismayed. If you have your work in print and that gives you joy, be happy. On the other hand, stay humble. The encouraging comments you receive don’t make you the next Ansel Adams.

But don’t be shy about telling others where they can get your stuff. Making zines is easy. Selling them is much more difficult. Got an Etsy store or similar? Offer occasional reminders of where to find it. But don’t “go on” about it. That would be boring!

-publishing


Posted

in

by

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *