Learn how to create retro-style artwork with this in-depth series. Discover the secrets behind making authentic retro artwork using concepts inspired by traditional techniques, tools, and media.
In part three of this series, we’ll explore texture including the impact of ink, paper, aging, and the environment artwork lives in.
If you haven't already, we recommend reading the first two articles in the series:
Until You Make It, Why Not Fake It - Part One: A Brief History of Print and Line
Until You Make It, Why Not Fake It - Part Two: Color and Printing Methods
“Mint Condition” is for Amatuers
This is the last of three articles aimed at helping artists make works that simulate cheaply printed comic books, all with the help of RetroSupply tools.
The previous entries, line and color, are obvious aspects, but without engaging the often-overlooked element of texture, it’s impossible to make a convincing simulation.
Texture is not only the quality of ink on the paper, but also the composition of the paper itself, not to mention the things that happen to the printed object – age, dirt, stains and wrinkles, creases and other damage from handling. The stuff of a comic collectors’ nightmares are tools in our mimetic tool box. “Mint condition” is for amateurs.
Comments
Tama
I wish someone were making comics like these, and with lots of thought bubbles!
March 14, 2022
Christopher Sperandio
Hi FletchNZ – there’s already a great tutorial on using ColorLab in the tutorials section. I just went through it (again) and it was a really useful refresher for me, and I use these tools all the time. I highly recommend it — it’s very detailed.
October 29, 2020
FletchNZ
This is good, but I wish you’d gone into a little more detail in using Colorlab and the application of color. This seems more like an overview.
Maybe needs a Part 4?
October 29, 2020
Luis
As always great!!! Thanks guys for this super blog! :)
Great tips! And the history was so useful/nice to kmow…
All the best!!!
October 28, 2020
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