3 Tips for Aspiring Creator-Owned Comic Creators: Insights from Curtis Clow

Creating a successful creator-owned comic is no easy feat, but Curtis Clow, writer of Beastlands and Slightly Exaggerated, shares three essential tips to help aspiring creators navigate this challenging yet rewarding journey.

Tip 1: Start Small

One of the most common mistakes aspiring creators make is starting too big, according to Curtis. “A lot of people try to do their first ongoing series for their first comic, which is nearly impossible,” he cautions. Instead, he emphasizes the value of starting with smaller projects like a one-shot, a 10-page story, or even just a two-page spread.

By starting small, creators can focus on honing their craft, learning the ropes, and completing their projects—an accomplishment in itself. “My first comic was just a two-page story I told in a single spread,” Curtis shared. Starting small builds confidence and sets a solid foundation for future work.

Tip 2: Build an Audience

“You’re not going to build an audience if you don’t make any comics,” Curtis advises. Building an audience starts with making content—even smaller projects—and sharing it with the world. Starting small not only helps creators finish their work but also serves as a stepping stone to gradually growing a fanbase.

“If you try to do an ongoing series as your first comic, nobody will read it because you’ll never finish it,” he explains. Every new comic a creator produces helps retain and expand their audience, one step at a time.

Tip 3: Be a Good Collaborator

Collaboration is at the heart of comic creation, and Curtis emphasizes the importance of being a team player. “Comics are created with a very small team, and you usually want to be friends with your collaborators,” he explains. Trust and communication are key to building strong working relationships over time.

Curtis also underscores the importance of writing scripts with the artist in mind. “You’re paying professional artists—let them do their own layouts. You can’t be over-controlling,” he advises. By respecting and trusting collaborators, creators foster a productive and harmonious team dynamic. In return, artists will often reciprocate with their best work.

By following these three essential tips—starting small, building an audience, and being a good collaborator—aspiring comic creators can set themselves up for success in the ever-competitive world of creator-owned comics. As Curtis proves, persistence, teamwork, and smart planning can turn creative dreams into reality.

Ready to take your first step into comics? Start small, make your mark, and watch your audience grow!