Comic Lab
The podcast about making comics — and making a living from comics! It's half shop talk, half how-to, and half friendship. WE SQUEEZED IN THREE HALVES. It's tips and tricks and all the joys of cartooning as a pro. So pull up your drawing chair, put on some headphones, and join us while you draw! And if you like what you hear, join our community at patreon.com/comiclab (For sponsorship inquiries: comiclabpodcast@gmail.com)
Special Guest Scott C
Cartoonist Scott C joins us to discuss his artistic journey. He discusses his beginnings, including art directing Psychonauts and Brutal Legend for Double Fine Productions, as well as his first webcomic, Double Fine Action Comics. He shares valuable insights on working with watercolors and creating graphic novels for younger readers. His paintings are currently on display at Gallery Nucleus in New York.
Scott C
WebsitePreorder Scott's new book, Cabin Head and Tree Head!Great ShowdownsDouble Fine Action ComicsGallery NucleusYouTubeTwitchInstagramSummary
In this engaging conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar interview Scott Campbell, a reno...
Pixels aren't permanent
Is it OK to change your comic after you've already sent it to your audience? The guys also tackle tariffs, ISBNs, bar codes, and offering comics to charity organizations.
Today's show
Making a change to a comic after it's "out there"Susan MacTaggart's personal affirmationUPDATE: Tariffs on books??ISBNs and bar codes for self-published booksComics for CharitySummary
In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the nuances of humor writing, the importance of building an audience on new platforms, and the challenges of editing long-form comics. They discuss the creative process...
Narration or Dialogue?
It's a jam-packed show this week! Brad and Dave argue over the better delivery for story exposition — dialogue or narration. Dave is discontinuing international shipping; Brad gets his Wikipedia updates; and the guys agree that Dee Fish does autobio comics right. Then Dave does another behind-the-scenes analysis of his recent Kickstarter, talking about his pricing strategy for stretch goals and how they processed hundreds of images for the campaign. Finally, with the SFWA opening their membership to comic creators, they discuss whether they should join.
Today's show
Narration or Dialogue?Susan McTaggart's personal affirmationUPDATE: international shippingUPDATE: Br...Paint the Wall Red: Conjuring Creativity
In a recent interview for the National Cartoonists Society, Greg Evans (the creator of the newspaper comic strip "Luanne") spoke about painting a single wall in his studio red. Mel Lazarus, creator of the syndicated strips "Momma" and "Miss Peach," told him that the color red was proven to increase creative thoughts. This resulted in one burning question for the cartoonists assembled to watch the interview: "DID IT WORK!?"
Today's Show
CreativitySusan MacTaggart's Personal AffirmationUsing copyrighted music lyrics in a comicSummary
In this episode, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss various...
Autobiohazard: Drawing the Line Between Fact and Fiction
Where's the line between an autobiographical comic and a semi-autobiographical one — between "based upon" and "inspired by"? And when does the whole thing veer directly into fiction?? Plus... Dave Kellett shares real numbers from his recent Kickstarter, and we arrive at a jaw-dropping conclusion: Bluesky is it.
The Webcomics Handbook will publish a visual breakdown of Dave's analytics on April 14th.
Today's show
Where to draw the line on an autobio comicMalignant ProcrastinationSusan MacTaggart's Personal AffirmationDave shares actual numbers from his KickstarterThe Wrong Way Show: Toy Story's WoodySummary
In this ep...
"I have a useless degree... and I love it!"
As they attempt to save the marriage of one of their listeners, Brad and Dave consider the best path for a cartoonist who wishes to pursue a master's degree. Would a Master's in Fine Arts be the right choice, or would a Master's in Business Administration be the better option? Considering the expense, perhaps the best choice is to avoid both! After grappling with that dilemma, Susan MacTaggart stops by to share a personal affirmation with a member of the ComicLab community.
Today's Show
Is a Master's Degree in comics worthwhile?Susan MacTaggart's AffirmationUPDATE: Brad and...Running gag ... or running out of steam?
When does a running gag stop being funny — and where does it start, for that matter? Cartoonists Brad and Dave must first agree on what a running gag is! Next, they'll talk about aesthetics — in other words, how does one develop their editorial eye? Finally, Dave reviews his accounting from last year's San Diego Comic-Con and discusses how it influences his decisions for this year's show.
Today's Show
When does a running gag go too far?Developing an editorial eyeUPDATE: San Diego Comic-Con numbersSummary
In this episode of Comic Lab, hosts Dave Kell...
Big Number Thinking
Social media has convinced an entire generation of creators to focus on numbers — followers, subscribers, likes, shares, and other engagement metrics. However, focusing on numbers can often lead an artist to make bad decisions.
Today's Show
Focusing on numbersLimiting comments on BSkyUPDATE: Hoganmag.comLost the Kickstarter mojoComic book vs graphic novelSummary
In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss recent updates on Blue Sky, a social media platform, and how it offers a healthier commenting environment. They emphasize the importance of quality followers over quantity, sharing insights from their own experiences wi...
Verbal vs. Visual
Brad and Dave discuss finding the right balance between visual and verbal. Dave asks if too much worldbuilding is an excuse to avoid actually writing the story. And a listener asks if it's a good idea to approach your Patreon as a customer-service job.
Today's show
Verbal vs. VisualUPDATE: DogKickstarter.comUPDATE: The Wrong Way Show draws ShrekWorldbuilding vs. actual writingIs Patreon like a customer service job?Summary
In this episode, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar delve into a discussion about the art of storytelling in comics, focusing on the balance between visual...
Happily Writing Tragedy
A listener seeks writing advice. How can you motivate readers to engage with a story that has an unhappy ending? Additionally, Dave's new DogKickstarter.com, tips for responding to inquiries from "civilians," and the importance of personal branding when posting on social media.
Today's Show
How to write an unhappy endingUPDATE: DogKickstarter.comQuestions from civiliansPosting politics on social mediaSummary
In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the importance of character wants and needs in storytelling, and how to create satisfying yet unhappy endings that resonate with audiences. In this conversation...
Webcomics Revenue Streams Ranked Best to Worst
What are independent comic creators' most reliable revenue streams — and which are the worst? Brad ranks them from top to bottom, and Dave shares his own experiences with each. Also, the guys share the strategy that's making Patreon's "Collections" feature a solid income generator.
Today's show
Webcomics Revenue Streams Ranked Best to WorstUPDATE: USPS Ground AdvantageUPDATE: Patreon Collections Should you include credits for digital fontmakers in books?Summary
Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar delve into the various income streams available to comic creators, comparing crowdfunding platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter, and discussing the...
The Information We Share — And Why We Shouldn't
Brad Guigar has categorized the information shared by creative individuals into three groups. Dave Kellett has a couple of his own to contribute. Of the five, only one is useful. Identifying the others can help you avoid making some significant mistakes.
Today's show
Types of information creative people shareUPDATE: Brad Guigar celebrates 25 years in comicsStory pacingSummary
In this episode, Brad and Dave discuss the information shared among creative individuals, categorizing them into facts, marketing, and herd mentality. The discussion highlights the importance of discerning between genuine facts and marketing tactics. Dave suggests...
"F*** me! That actually worked!"
This week's episode is sponsored by Hogan's Alley magazine! We'll discuss those moments in our careers when we said, "F*** me! That actually worked!" Also, a listener writes in to say that they want to take our advice and make the jump to Bluesky, but it causes too much anxiety.
Sponsor
Hogan's Alley magazine sponsors this week's episode! In the next issue, they'll cover the Tijuana Bibles and much more! Get your copy now!
Today's Show
Hogan's Alley magazine"F*** me! That actually worked!"UPDATE: Diamond Comics DistributorsUPDATE: The Wrong Way"Bluesky st...Business Advice: Embrace Discomfort
We're heading into a year promising significant upheaval — in business, social media, publishing, and more. But, after twenty-five years of self-publishing, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar have learned an important lesson: Discomfort is crucial in growing as an artist — and as a businessperson.
Today's show
Embrace discomfortListifications on Bluesky — https://bsky.app/profile/listifications.appSummary
In this conversation, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the importance of discomfort in personal and artistic growth, emphasizing that taking risks is essential for creativity. The duo reflects on their experiences in the comic industr...
How to start a webcomic in 2025
Start your webcomic using the latest platforms, monetization methods, and social media strategies. If you're launching a new comic in 2025, this episode has all the information you'll need to get it off the ground!
How to start a webcomic in 2025
Don’t try to “game” your readership. Write about what YOU likeBuilding readership takes time and consistency. Creating for love is essential in the early years. Focus on writing as the core of comic creation. Focus on creating comics for the love of the craft. The first comics may only be seen by you; embrace the process...Introducing: The Wrong Way!
Cartoonists Brad Guigar, Dave Kellett and Kevin McShane are teaming up on a new show — The Wrong Way! We'll teach you how to draw your favorite cartoon characters without getting sued over copyright theft! Along the way, we'll share tips, tell stories, and roast each other mercilessly. Pay attention and you might learn how to draw The Wrong Way!
Today's Show
Wrong wayClever vs funnySummary
In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett introduce fellow cartoonist Kevin McShane, announce their new YouTube show, 'The Wrong Way,' where they draw beloved characters in...
Social Media: Business or Pleasure?
A ComicLab member complained about following too many people on Bluesky. It was too difficult for them to cultivate a feed that suited their interests! This brought up a topic that has Dave and Brad divided: Are you on social media for business or pleasure?
Today's Show
You're not on social media to readUPDATE: Spice Rack Comics webring (NSFW) — special thanks to Matt Sowers at RCSI PublishingUPDATE: Dave and Brad's transposed faces Started too soon on PatreonSummary
In this engaging conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore various themes related to comics, soc...
Predictions and goals for 2025
As we begin a new year, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar make their predictions for 2025 and share their goals for the next twelve months.
Predictions
DAVE: Business planning anxietyBRAD: Because of Dave’s prediction, the winners will be people who help address that anxiety. (That’s us!) Be the distraction/escape people need; they won’t forget you. DAVE: Bluesky at 50M by the end of the yearBRAD: Substack gains prominence — rises to Kickstarter/Patreon levelsDAVE: we’ll all be playing reactionary, whack-a-mole life choices for the first two years of the trump admin. Until the midterm...2024 in Review
At the beginning of the year, Dave and Brad made a series of predictions and set some personal goals for the year. The year is over, and it's time to see how they fared.
Predictions for 2024
BRAD: Twitter will crash in 2023 2024DAVE: Social media will remain distributed over five or six platformsBRAD: Web users will begin to pivot away from social mediaDAVE: Patreon will move closer to an IPOBRAD: Kickstarter will remain #1 by continuing to avoid mentioning blockchainDAVE: SDCC will return to normal after an abnormal '23... and profits will plummet for creatorsThings we...
How can comics reach kids?
A father is concerned that comics no longer reach kids, suggesting that video games are the better value measured by engagement time. What can we do to reverse this trend?
On today's show
How can comics reach kids?UPDATE: Buffer (see addendum below)How can I avoid Trump's tariffs? (see other addendum below)Addendum
One day after we recorded the drop that explained that Buffer did not support video uploads, they made an announcement. You guessed it — they've added that functionality. They still do not support adding content moderation labels.
Other add...
Maybe You're Not Funny
Writing humor takes a lot of time and patience. We'll discuss ways to persevere.
Summary
In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett share insights on the creative process of writing humor, emphasizing that humor can be both an inherited trait and a learned skill. The conversation highlights the necessity of trial and error in developing a comedic voice and the various factors influencing one's ability to be funny. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the journey of mastering humor and comedy writing. They emphasize the importance of practice, analysis, and the willingness to learn...
In over my head
What happens when your story gets too big for you to handle? Are you the right person for the job? (And if not you, then who??)
On Today's Show:
In over your headUPDATE: It was FCS all along Crossbar i technicalityAdvice to your older selfSummary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the challenges creators face, particularly when tackling complex themes such as systemic injustice in long-term comic projects. The hosts emphasize the importance of pushing through creative doubts and the value of learning from mistakes in the writing process. In this conversation, t...
A minor problem with a comics major
Does an aspiring comics artist/writer need a college degree? And, if so, which degree is best? Next, a listener asks why Brad publishes his weekly comics page in half-page increments.
What schools do we recommend ?Why does Brad publish twice a week?Substack and BlueskySummary
In this episode of ComicLab, hosts Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the importance of higher education for aspiring cartoonists, debating the merits of specialized degrees versus a broader liberal arts education. They emphasize the significance of writing in comics, the value of community colleges, and the necessity...
Nobody believes I'm a cartoonist
How do you explain to someone that you're a professional cartoonist? More importantly — should you even try?! Also, Dave and Brad share details about the software they use, and Brad extolls the virtues of a Patreon content exchange.
On Today's Show...
How do you explain to people that you're a professional cartoonist?What software is best for comics?Take a break this holidayPatreon content exchangeSummary
In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the challenges of explaining their profession as cartoonists to others, as well as the misconceptions surrounding the field. Ne...
Your content is not your community
When comic creators try to market their comics, they often confuse what their comic is about with who it's for. Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar offer some guidance on making compelling promotions that work. In the show's second half, the boys have a devil of a time talking about angel investing.
Summary
In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore how comic creators can broaden their audience beyond niche markets, emphasizing the significance of themes and relationships in storytelling. The conversation highlights the need for creators to identify their comic's appeal and engage...
Let's talk about your bits and pieces
When a listener asks about Kickstarter strategy, the ComicLab guys are divided! Dave favors the traditional webcomics approach. Build your audience by posting the comic online, then monetize that engagement with a Kickstarter. Brad likes this, but he could also see using Kickstarter's strengths in Discovery to build the audience through a series of smaller campaigns that lead to a big one.
Summary
In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore various aspects of creating and promoting comics, including the importance of audience engagement, the role of webcomics, and practical strategies for using platforms...
New ways to make an old mistake
After years of listening to Brad and Dave extoll the virtues of self-publishing, a ComicLab listener signed with a corporate publisher. Poor sales and paltry marketing left them dissatisfied, so of course, they wrote in with one burning question: Who should I sign with next? Also, should you ever explain a joke?
Topics
The first publisher was a disappointment... and we want to try it againillustrated novelsUPDATE: The USPTO has canceled Marvel and DC‘s trademark filing for superhero Should you EXPLAIN A JOKE when someone says, “I don’t get it?"Summary
In this...
Should your readers be your writers?
BlueSky is beginning to feel like Twitter did ten years ago! Engagement is up, conversations are happening, and follower counts are rising — with actual people! Is it too good to be true? Also, encouraging your readers to take a hand in writing your comic may be good community building... but is it good writing?
On today's show
UPDATE: Is BlueSky IT? Collaborative storytelling — letting your readers become writers Is word-of-mouth better than social media?Patreon or Substack?Business adviceSummary
In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the emerging social media platfo...
"Help! I'm not funny anymore!"
Cartoonists Dave and Brad share some thoughts with a young humor writer trying to find their Funny. Also: Is BlueSky pulling ahead in the social-media race?
Today's show:
Writing jokes fasterUPDATE: Patreon opens recommendations for NSFW creatorsUPDATE: TikTok court case moves forwardPutting social media into perspectiveMaking drawing fun againSummary
In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the challenges of writing comedy and the importance of developing a personal editorial eye. They emphasize the need for creators to trust their instincts and navigate feedback from others while recognizing the natural evolution...
Innovation fascination
Having wrapped up his 16th Kickstarter, cartoonist Dave Kellett shares some insights about setting realistic expectations, avoiding paid advertising, and the death of social media. Also: recent innovations by both Kickstarter and Patreon show considerable promise for the crowdfunding platforms.
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss the emotional rollercoaster of running a Kickstarter campaign, and the ineffectiveness of online advertising. In this part of the conversation, Brad and Dave discuss their experiences with different social media platforms and the effectiveness of their efforts to promote their work. They emphasize the importance of building a...
Dave's New Bucket List
Attending this year's National Cartoonists Society conference and Reuben Awards has changed Dave's bucket list. He wants one of those danged trophies! (And so does Brad.) Also, after Dave looks at the analytics from his recent Kickstarter, he decides to leave Twitter and Instagram once and for all.
On Today's Show
UPDATE: ComicLab stingersDave's new Bucket ListUPDATE: Dave's Kickstarter convinces him to leave both Twitter and InstagramUPDATE: Patreon's AutopilotToo many different comics?Pen name for a teacher? Taking a break to build up your bufferMade with Human Intelligence iconsArtificial IntelligenceSummary
In this e...
Our Review of the National Cartoonists Society conference and Reuben Awards
In the final installment of a three-part series on the National Cartoonists Society conference and Reuben Awards celebration, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar sit down over a couple of tasty adult beverages and share stories and reflections on this year's event.
You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon
$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!
Brad Guigar is the creator...
ComicLab LIVE at the National Cartoonists Society conference and Reuben Awards, Part Two
Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar take their podcast on the road, recording this episode live at the Comic-Con Museum in San Diego as part of the National Cartoonists Society conference and Reuben Awards celebration! They were joined on stage by Danesh Mohiuddin, Hilary B. Price, and Tauhid Bondia to discuss the pressing issues facing cartoonists in the years to come.
On today's show:
How are you addressing artificial intelligence?What's working on social media?What are your plans for the next five years?What does retirement look like?Danesh Mohiuddin
Danesh Mohiuddin is a...
ComicLab LIVE at the National Cartoonists Society conference and Reuben Awards, Part One
Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar take their podcast on the road, recording this episode live at the Comic-Con Museum in San Diego as part of the National Cartoonists Society conference and Reuben Awards celebration! They were joined on stage by Maria Scrivan, Hector Cantu, and Dana Simpson to discuss the pressing issues facing cartoonists in the years to come.
On today's show:
How are you addressing artificial intelligence?What's working on social media?What are your plans for the next five years?What does retirement look like?Maria Scrivan
Maria Scrivan is a N...
Make it work, make it right, make it fast
Dave Kellett discusses the three phases of art. First, you're just trying to make it work. Then, you try to make it right. And after you've mastered those, you can begin to make it fast.
On today's show:
Make it work, make it right, make it fastUPDATE: Danielle Corsetto's lettering tipsUPDATE: Substack Notes adviceUPDATE: KDP and Global ComixSummary
The hosts discuss the stages of artistic development in comics, starting with making it work, then making it right, and finally making it fast. They compare this progression to the process of building a...
Patreon and the iOS app
Apple has initiated a plan to take 30% of all transactions made through the Patreon iOS app. That has caused creators to panic, spreading misinformation and making poorly thought-out claims. Many people trying to explain the situation to their backers got their facts wrong, hurting their own revenue. Dave and Brad sit down and sort out the facts from the friction.
On today's show:
Dave's Comic-Con report: 5% drop in sales after a 38% rise in the previous yearPatreon and the iOS appUPDATE: Kangaroo wienersHand lettering tipsSummary
In this episode, Dave and Brad discuss their...
Kickstarter mistake — confusing rewards with add-ons
Brad and Dave discuss using rewards and add-ons in a Kickstarter campaign. Then, they tackle the problem of whether your dialogue should feature proper English or your character's "natural" speech.
Today's show
Kickstarter mistake — confusing rewards with add-onsCheck out Dave's Kickstarter at Newdrivebook.comShould you write in proper English?UPDATE: Reuben Awards — two live ComicLab shows on Thursday, Aug. 22How to start at the very beginningSummary
In this conversation, Brad and Dave discuss their experiences with building Lego sets and building a gaming PC. They also talk about the importance of structuring Kick...
Special Guest Co-Host Kevin McShane
As Brad Guigar travels to Bad Axe, Michigan, to spend a fun-filled week with his family, Kevin McShane steps in to talk comics with Dave Kellett.
In this conversation, David and Kevin discuss various topics related to comics, including their experiences with "Love Is" comics at their weddings, the potential future advancements in comic-making technology, and different marketing strategies for sharing comics. They explore the idea of using VR technology to create a more immersive drawing experience, the enduring appeal of 2D comics, and the importance of building an audience through platforms like mailing lists and social m...
Special Guest Co-Host Scott Kurtz — How to make a graphic novel
Show note: Unfortunately, we had some daunting technical difficulties during this recording session, so we had to switch to Zoom to record half of the show.
As Dave Kellett recovers from a successful San Diego Comic-Con, Scott Kurtz steps in to help Brad talk about making a graphic novel. In the second half, the two spill some tea over early webcomic history.
THIS WEEK
How to make a graphic novelWebcomic history"Table Titans Club" is available at Target stores nationwide, along with Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your local bookstore!
You g...
How to use a sketchbook
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...
