What is a ZINE? A clear explanation of its meaning, origin, differences from doujinshi (self-published works), and how to create one.

"What is a zine?" "How is it different from a fanzine?" "Can I make one myself?"

In recent years, "zines" have become increasingly common in bookstores, at events, and on social media. Many people may be interested in them but still not quite sure what they are.

In conclusion, ZINEs are"A self-published booklet that compiles things you love in a free and unconventional way."is.
The greatest appeal of a zine is that you can freely express what you want to express, without being bound by publishers or established rules.

This article clearly explains the meaning and origin of zines, how they differ from fanzines and little presses, what kinds of zines exist, where to buy them, and the process of creating your first one.

What you will learn from this article

• What is a ZINE? (Meaning, pronunciation, origin)
• The appeal of zines
• Differences between doujinshi and little presses
• What kinds of zines are there?
• Where can I buy or read zines?
• The process of creating your first zine

What is a ZINE?

A zine is a self-published booklet created by an individual or a small group of people.

The word "ZINE" is generally explained as an abbreviation of "fanzine." Fanzine is a combination of "fan" and "magazine," and originally referred to magazines created by fans themselves.

There are no set rules for creating a zine.

• Even just a photo is fine.
• Even just an illustration would be fine.
• Even just text is fine.
• You can combine them all.

You can freely decide everything, from the number of pages and size to the paper and printing method.

A notable characteristic is that many people start not with the goal of "creating a bestselling book," but with the goal of "creating something they want to create."

The History of Zines

The origins of zines are said to be in the 1930s in America, where fans of science fiction novels created "fanzines." They would make and exchange booklets to discuss their favorite works.

Later, in the 1970s, handmade booklets containing band and live performance information, as well as opinions and messages, became popular in the punk music scene. The "DIY" style of zines, where they are printed on photocopiers and stapled together, is strongly associated with this era.

Nowadays, the themes and creation methods have become even more flexible, and zines are being made all over the world as a platform for personal expression, including photographs, illustrations, essays, and diaries. In Japan, bookstores that carry zines and events themed around zines are now being held in various places.

The appeal of zines

You can make it freely

There is no single right answer when it comes to zines.
Even if a theme or style of expression is difficult to achieve through commercial publishing, you can bring it to life if you want to create it.

for example,

• A collection of photos taken during travels.
• I'll introduce my favorite plants.
• Documenting life with cats
• I'm compiling the illustrations I drew every day.
• Writing an essay

The theme is open to all.

Can be produced even in small quantities

"I don't know if I'll even sell 100 copies..."
There's no need to worry about that.

These days, there are many services that allow you to print in small quantities, so it's not uncommon to produce just 10 or 20 copies.
Some people create just one copy, either for themselves or as a gift for a friend.

Being able to express yourself in your own way

The texture of the paper and the binding method all become part of the artwork.
The ability to express even the "experience of turning the pages" is one of the unique charms of a zine.

The difference between a zine, a fanzine, and a little press.

They are similar words, but each has slightly different characteristics.

However, there is no clear boundary.
In reality, self-published works are sometimes called zines, and the line between them and little presses is also blurred.

What's important is not "what to call it," but "how you want to express it."

The differences between them are explained in detail in this article.

What kinds of zines are there?

There is no fixed genre for zines.

Typical examples include:

• Photo ZINE
• Illustration ZINE
• Essay ZINE
• poetry collection
• comics
• Design Portfolio
• Collection of collage works
• Recipe collection
• travelogue
• diary

These are some examples.

You can combine multiple genres.
For example, many people create a book based on their own unique theme, such as "travel photos + essays," "plant illustrations + cultivation instructions," or "recipes + photos."

The characteristics of each genre are introduced in this article.

Where can I buy or read zines?

ZINEs can be obtained mainly from the following places:

• ZINE events and sales eventsThe appeal is being able to buy directly from the creator and hear about their work.
• Bookstores and general stores that sell zinesSome independent bookstores have a section dedicated to zines.
• Online shopping siteSometimes the creators open their own online shops to sell their products.

If it's your first time, I recommend going to an event. You can pick up and compare many works all at once.

Ziiine features information on ZINE events across Japan.
Find ZINE events

How do you make a zine?

There are six basic steps.

1. Choose a theme
2. Choose a size
3. Determine the number of pages.
4. Design
5. Print and bind
6. Sell and distribute

It might seem difficult, but if you take it one step at a time, even beginners can definitely complete it.

Each step is explained in detail in this article.

• How to choose a theme for your zine
• How to choose the right size for your zine
• How to decide the number of pages in a zine

If you'd like to know the entire production process from start to finish, please click here.

If I'm making it for the first time, where should I start?

For your first book, aim to complete it.

My recommendation is,

• A5 size
• Pages 16-24
• My favorite theme

is.

Starting with familiar topics such as "my favorite coffee shop," "travel photos," or "daily sketches" will make the process enjoyable from start to finish.

Rather than aiming for an elaborate piece from the start, the experience of completing one book will lead to future works.

From the Ziiine editorial team

With zines, it's easier to get a sense of what's inside by looking at the actual artwork rather than reading a written explanation.

Ziiine features zines in various genres, including photography, illustrations, essays, and design.
Just by looking at "what kinds of works are available," you might find a theme or method of expression that you'd like to create yourself.

View the ZINEs featured here

FAQ

How do you pronounce "ZINE"?

It's pronounced "Jin".

Can I create just one copy of a zine?

Yes. You can also create just one copy for yourself. You can print it on your home printer or use a printing company that handles small print runs.

Can a zine be made by hand?

Of course you can make one. There are many zines that are created using analog methods such as handwriting and collage.

What is the minimum number of pages required to create a zine?

There are no strict rules, but for a first-timer, 16 to 24 pages is a good and easy length to create.

Where can I sell my zine?

You can sell your zines at events like the Literary Flea Market and COMITIA, as well as through online sales services like BOOTH and BASE. You can also have your completed zine published on Ziiine for free.

summary

A zine is a self-published booklet that compiles your favorite things and things you want to share in a free and unconventional way.

There are no set rules or correct answers.
That's why, whether it's a photograph, illustration, or writing, you can express yourself in your own unique way and turn it into a finished work.

If you're thinking about making a zine, start by looking at various examples and thinking about "what kind of zine you'd like to create."