How to Start Drawing Manga: A Beginner’s Guide to Becoming a Mangaka
So, you’ve decided you want to draw manga? That’s awesome! Whether you’re dreaming of creating the next Naruto or just want to tell your own stories through art, this guide is here to help you take your first steps into the world of manga. Don’t worry if you’re a total beginner—every legendary mangaka started with a single sketch. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Get Inspired (and Start Reading Manga!)
Before you pick up a pen, you need to know what manga is all about. Start by reading your favorite manga series. What do you love about them? Is it the dynamic action scenes, the emotional storytelling, or the quirky characters? Take notes on what makes them special.
But don’t just stop at reading—analyze them. How do the artists use paneling to build tension? How do they convey emotions through facial expressions? Pay attention to the little details, like how speed lines make action scenes pop or how screentones add texture.
Pro Tip: Create a “manga inspiration journal.” Jot down your favorite panels, character designs, and story moments. This will help you develop your own style over time.
Personal Anecdote: When I first started drawing manga, I was obsessed with Death Note. I loved how the artist, Takeshi Obata, used shadows and dramatic angles to create a dark, intense atmosphere. I spent hours trying to replicate his style—and failing miserably. But those failures taught me so much about shading and composition!
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
You don’t need fancy equipment to start drawing manga, but having the right tools can make a big difference. Here’s a quick list of essentials:
Pencils and Erasers: For sketching your ideas. A mechanical pencil with a fine lead (0.5mm) is great for clean lines.
Inking Pens: Like Micron or G-Pen for clean lines. Start with a set of different thicknesses (0.1mm for details, 0.8mm for bold outlines).
Paper: Manga manuscript paper (or any smooth paper). If you’re serious, you can buy pre-printed manga paper with panel guidelines.
Ruler: For those crisp panel borders. A clear, flexible ruler is a lifesaver.
Digital Tools (Optional): If you’re going digital, try software like Clip Studio Paint (a favorite among mangaka) or Procreate. A drawing tablet like Wacom or Huion is a great investment.
Fun Fact: Some mangaka still use traditional tools, while others have gone fully digital. It’s all about what works for you!
Actionable Tip: Start small. You don’t need to buy everything at once. A simple pencil, eraser, and sketchbook are enough to get started. Upgrade your tools as you grow.
Step 3: Learn the Basics of Manga Art
Manga has its own style, but don’t stress about being perfect right away. Start with the basics:
Faces and Expressions: Practice drawing different angles and emotions. (Check out my Sketchflix video on drawing manga faces for tips!)
Start with the classic “circle and cross” method for drawing heads.
Experiment with different eye shapes—big and round for a cute look, sharp and narrow for a serious vibe.
Body Proportions: Learn how to draw characters in motion.
Use stick figures to map out poses before adding details.
Practice drawing hands and feet—they’re tricky but essential!
Paneling: Manga is all about storytelling through panels. Experiment with different layouts.
Use large panels for dramatic moments and small panels for quick actions.
Play with unconventional shapes, like diagonal or circular panels, to add visual interest.
Challenge: Try drawing a simple 4-panel comic strip. It’s a great way to practice storytelling!
Personal Anecdote: When I first tried drawing manga, I struggled with hands. They always looked like lumpy potatoes! But after weeks of practice (and a lot of frustration), I finally got the hang of it. Now, hands are one of my favorite things to draw.
Step 4: Create Your Characters
Your characters are the heart of your manga. Start by brainstorming their personalities, backstories, and goals. Then, design their look.
Outfits: What do they wear? Is it casual, futuristic, or fantasy-inspired?
Use Pinterest or fashion magazines for inspiration.
Think about how their clothing reflects their personality.
Hairstyles: Manga characters often have wild, unique hairstyles. Have fun with it!
Try combining different shapes and textures—spiky, curly, long, short.
Accessories: Glasses, weapons, or even a cute pet can make your character stand out.
Pro Tip: Keep a sketchbook just for character designs. You never know when inspiration will strike!
Actionable Tip: Create a “character profile” for each of your main characters. Include their name, age, personality traits, and a short backstory. This will help you stay consistent as you draw them.
Step 5: Write Your Story
Manga isn’t just about art—it’s about storytelling. Start with a simple idea and build from there.
Plot: What’s the main conflict or goal?
Keep it simple at first. For example, “A young ninja must avenge his village.”
Characters: How do they grow and change?
Give your characters flaws and challenges to overcome.
Pacing: Manga is fast-paced, so keep the action and dialogue moving.
Use cliffhangers at the end of chapters to keep readers hooked.
Fun Exercise: Write a one-sentence summary of your story. If you can’t explain it simply, you might need to refine your idea.
Personal Anecdote: My first manga story was about a girl who could talk to animals. It was… not great. But it taught me the importance of planning. Now, I always outline my stories before I start drawing.
Step 6: Practice, Practice, Practice
Here’s the truth: becoming a mangaka takes time and effort. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—every sketch is a step forward. Set aside time to draw every day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes.
Motivation Boost: Share your work online or with friends. Feedback can help you improve and keep you motivated!
Actionable Tip: Join a manga art challenge, like #MangaMarch or #Inktober. These are great ways to stay consistent and connect with other artists.
Step 7: Join the Manga Community
You’re not alone on this journey! Connect with other aspiring mangaka online or at local events. Share your work, ask for advice, and learn from others.
Shameless Plug: Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Sketchflix, for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration!
