The Stages of Making an Illustration and the Freedom of a Hybrid Workflow

When creating an illustration, artists often follow a traditional workflow, executing each stage in the same medium, whether digital or traditional. However, this doesn't have to be the case. By combining multiple mediums for different stages of the illustration, we can create a hybrid workflow that offers a range of benefits and possibilities.

The Benefits of a Hybrid Workflow

One of the main advantages of a hybrid workflow is that it keeps the art-making process fresh and exciting. By switching between mediums, we can avoid the monotony of working in a single medium for an entire project. Additionally, there is no one "industry standard" for creating comics, and experimenting with different workflows can lead to the discovery of new techniques.

Example of a Hybrid Workflow

One example of a hybrid workflow is to start by penciling and inking with Microns on Bristol board, then scanning the artwork and executing final colors using Procreate on an iPad. This combines the traditional feel of Micron inks with the flexibility and precision of digital coloring. The possibilities are endless, and the freedom to experiment is what makes art-making exciting.

Digital Drawing Process

Procreate Stage

The digital drawing process begins with a loose, gestural sketch in Procreate to block in major composition elements. Procreate's intuitive interface and features, such as the "tap to switch" function of the Apple Pencil, make it an ideal tool for sketching. This stage focuses on general proportions and anatomy, without worrying about line quality or finish.

Refining the Drawing

The next stage involves tightening up the drawing, paying attention to structure and proportions. Procreate's selection tools make it easy to resize various parts of the drawing, ensuring that the base drawing is solid before moving on to the next stage.

Printing and Inking

The refined drawing is then printed on A3 paper and transferred to a drawing table, where Micron inking tools are used to create precise, stable lines with varying line weights. This stage adds a human and genuine feel to the artwork, with the friction of the paper, slight wobble of the ink line, micro bleeds, and tactile engagement all contributing to a more authentic look.

Traditional Inking Advantages

Traditional inking has several advantages over digital inking. The human touch and minor imperfections that come with traditional inking create a more genuine and authentic feel, whereas digital brushes can feel too slick and perfect. Additionally, traditional inking allows for a range of line weights, which can keep the viewer's eye engaged.

Scanning and Post-Processing

The inked artwork is then scanned at 600 dpi and sent to Clip Studio for post-processing. In Clip Studio, the line work is isolated by selecting and duplicating black lines onto a separate layer, and alpha locking the layer to color under the lines without a problem. This allows for easy addition of tone and gradients, mimicking traditional screen tones.

Combining Traditional and Digital Media for a Unique Artwork

Combining traditional and digital media can result in a unique and captivating artwork. The process involves creating traditionally inked linework, using Clip Studio's auto color feature to generate a layer of AI-generated color, organizing layers and exporting to Procreate, and finally, refining colors and adding final touches.

Step 1: Creating Traditionally Inked Linework

The first step involves creating traditionally inked linework on paper or a physical medium. This adds a human touch to the artwork and creates a sense of authenticity.

Step 2: Using Clip Studio's Auto Color Feature

The linework is then opened in Clip Studio, where the auto color feature is used to generate a layer of AI-generated color. This adds an extra layer of value variation that can be used lightly in the final piece.

Step 3: Organizing Layers and Exporting to Procreate

The layers are then organized in Clip Studio to prepare for export. The piece is exported in PSD format, which is compatible with Procreate, and jumped over to Procreate to start working on the piece.

Step 4: Basic Color Blocking and Rendering

In Procreate, big blocks of general color are created, followed by detailed rendering of the piece. This is the loosest and most fun part of the process, focusing on the feel of the image.

Step 5: Refining Colors and Adding Final Touches

Colors are added and removed in response to the established lines and tones, creating a unique and captivating artwork. The final image is refined, with colors mixed and remixed like a musical track, and final touches added to complete the piece.

Final Result and Conclusion

The final result is a unique and captivating artwork that showcases the benefits of combining traditional and digital media. The hybrid workflow offers a range of possibilities and opens up new avenues for creative expression. By experimenting with different workflows, artists can discover new techniques and push the boundaries of what is possible.