Downtown Lanc Zine

Downtown Lanc Zine features independent music and art in Lancaster, PA. For one of their issues, I created a short zine-making guide.

Here's the full text from the guide.

Tips for making zines by hand

1. Simple is good

If you've never made a zine before, mini zines are a great place to start! Google "how to fold an 8-page zine" to find instructions. All you need is a plain piece of paper, scissors, and something to write with.

2. Draw, collage, or write

Make the pages in whatever way works for you. You can draw pictures, glue down magazine clippings, or write about something that interests you. Your zine can be about whatever you want.

If you're making a mini zine with the paper unfolded, note that one row is upside down relative to the other row.

3. Stay way from the edges

Most printers can't print all the way to the edge of the paper. If you plan to photocopy your zine, leave about 1/4 inch of blank space around the edge of the paper. Or, at least don't put anything important near the edge, so you don't risk it getting cut off.

4. Embrace the imperfections

Handmade zines aren't going to come out perfectly, and that's okay! Don't sweat stuff like text or images being a little off.

5. Share your zine

Zines are a great way to connect with people! Post photos of your zine online and give (or sell) copies to people. Making copies at the library or a local print shop works great if you don't have access to a printer at home.

Unless you want your zine to be anonymous, include a way for people to reach you—A social media handle, an email address, or a website URL.