The main rule is that there are no rules!
The Bindery
A zine (short for magazine) is a self-published, printed (sometimes digital) booklet. From the writing, to the illustration/photography, to the binding, they are DIY labors of love. They are often printed in limited quantities at a low cost, so that they may be sold cheaply or given away for free. A zine can be about anything—personal experiences, politics, poetry, fiction, art, music, food, pop culture, or the most recent sandwich you ate. Zines can be anything. Zines are for everyone. And the best part is that you can make one too, right now, with whatever is around you!
There are so many reasons why zines are important. Here are just a few…
- Historically, zines have been a way for marginalized creators to share their work and have their voices be heard.
- Zines allow people to share content that doesn’t fit neatly into the mainstream, whether it’s art, fiction, poetry, or essays.
- Zine making is empowering! When you make a zine, you’re giving yourself permission to publish. It doesn’t matter if it’s perfect or if someone else thinks it’s good. Zine making is all about creating something and sharing it with others.
Want to learn more? Here are some of my favorite resources about zines and how you can make your own. Just click on the title!
The Bindery – What is a Zine?
What exactly are zines? What purpose do they serve? It can be somewhat difficult to describe because there are no rules to zine making. The Bindery provides a succinct definition that captures the spirit of zine-making.
Mental Floss – A Brief History of Zines
How long have zines been around? Chloe Arnold delves into the history of zines and provides a snapshot of where this creative form originated.
The Modern Met – How to Make a Zine
In this article by Emma Taggart you’ll find a brief introduction to zines, as well as a tutorial for how to create an 8 page mini zine using only a pair of scissors and a single piece of paper. Doesn’t get easier than that!
The Creative Independent – How to Make a Zine
This is the most comprehensive resource about zine making I’ve found. It outlines topics other articles don’t always cover, such as printing, distribution, and advice on how to give your zine its own signature look. A must-read!
