How To Make a Mini-Zine

A zine (short for magazine) is a self-published DIY collection of works that we can all make at home. Whether you like to draw, tell stories, write poetry, keep a journal, or need a place to doodle, zines are the perfect place to make that happen. They are also a great way to beat boredom — and if anyone else is doing the Winter Challenge right now, zines are the perfect new activity that you can try. 😉

I made GHOST, the zine in the video below because I thought of a funny story one day and really wanted to draw it out (shout-out to my colleagues Debbie and Lynne for the character inspiration, opens a new window). This was also the first time I had tried making a mini-zine. When I finished and realized how fun it was to make, I thought it would be a great idea to show you all how to make one as well!

Below is a video on how to make a single-sided, 8-panel mini-zine using a single sheet of paper. Not only are these zines super easy to make, but since its content is all on the same side of a single sheet of paper, the zine can be easily scanned, copied and distributed to friends and family.

How to Do It Yourself

What you’ll need: one single sheet of paper (any color you want!), scissors and something to write with.

So now that you’ve mastered how to make a mini-zine, it’s time to fill it full of art (or maybe your grocery list). Whatever you do decide to do with it, share your creations with us by tagging @SMCLibraries on Instagram, opens a new window or Facebook, opens a new window — we’d love to see them!

Want to Learn More?

Here are some books and eBooks on zines you can check out from us:

Whatcha Mean, What's A Zine?

Stolen Sharpie Revolution 2

Zine Scene

Make A Zine!

Start your Own Zine

 What will your mini-zine be used for? Let us know in the comments below!