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Manga Monday

Writer's picture: Mark NorthcottMark Northcott
Since manga is so widespread I've offered a generic sample of inked thumbnails here.
Since manga is so widespread I've offered a generic sample of inked thumbnails here.

thumbnails to triumph!

Welcome back to Manga Mondays, where your manga-making journey continues! Last week, we explored brainstorming story arcs and creating character-driven narratives. This week, we’re turning those ideas into thumbnail sketches—miniature versions of your manga pages designed to map out your story. Ready to bring those ideas to life? Let’s dive in!



Catching Up: Where We Left Off

Last week, we focused on:

  1. Developing your story arc: What’s the emotional core of your story?

  2. Crafting dynamic characters: Who are they, and what drives them?

  3. Roughly sketching your protagonist: Remember those bold gestures and quirky details?

Armed with your characters and story, it’s time to translate your vision into thumbnails. Think of these as your blueprint—tiny, quick sketches that capture the layout, flow, and drama of each page.




Step-by-Step: Creating Thumbnails for Your Manga

1. Set the Scene

Begin by thinking about your page layout. Is it an explosive battle sequence or a quiet, emotional exchange? Use your story beats to decide:

  • How many panels does your scene need?

  • Will you use large, dramatic panels or small, rapid ones?

  • Is there a focal point or key moment?

💡 Pro Tip: Start simple! Divide your page into rectangles to represent panels. Don’t stress over perfect proportions—just map out where things go.


Though this is an AI generated example it inspires me to create the story I proposed for myself. As a challenge see if you can tell me what the story is about in short from the thumbnails created!
Though this is an AI generated example it inspires me to create the story I proposed for myself. As a challenge see if you can tell me what the story is about in short from the thumbnails created!

2. Sketch It Out

Now it’s time to fill those panels. Use stick figures and simple shapes to sketch:

  • Characters’ positions and poses.

  • Background elements (loosely!).

  • Speech bubbles or narration placement.

Your goal isn’t to create perfect art—it’s to ensure your composition and flow work.


3. Add the Flow

Thumbnails are like a choreography for the eyes. Ask yourself:

  • Does the reader’s gaze naturally follow the story?

  • Are action scenes clear and easy to follow?

  • Do emotional moments have breathing room?

Play with overlapping elements, bold shapes, and dramatic angles to guide your viewer.


AI generated focus on story flow from panel to panel. What do YOU think? Does AI need a lot more explanation or not when it comes to "refining dynamic flow" of a story?
AI generated focus on story flow from panel to panel. What do YOU think? Does AI need a lot more explanation or not when it comes to "refining dynamic flow" of a story?


4. Test the Drama

If your page feels flat, amp up the drama:

  • Use diagonal lines and asymmetry for tension.

  • Create extreme close-ups for emotion.

  • Contrast large and small panels for rhythm.


Sample two page AI spread focusing on the juxtaposition of varying panel sizes influencing reading pace and details for the story.
Sample two page AI spread focusing on the juxtaposition of varying panel sizes influencing reading pace and details for the story.


Let’s Make a Page Together!

Here’s an example of a thumbnail workflow:

Scene: A hero confronts their rival on a crumbling rooftop.

  1. Panel 1: Establishing shot of the rooftop. The city skyline looms in the background.

  2. Panel 2: The rival smirks, holding a glowing sword.

  3. Panel 3: Close-up of the hero’s determined eyes.

  4. Panel 4: The rival lunges. Dynamic, diagonal lines show the movement.

  5. Panel 5: The hero blocks the attack with their shield, sparks flying.



Interactive Element: Share Your Progress!

This week’s challenge: Create thumbnails for a single page of your manga. Post your sketches and tag me so we can cheer each other on! Bonus points if you experiment with unique panel shapes or dramatic angles.




Final Thoughts: Why Thumbnails Matter

Thumbnails are the unsung heroes of manga-making. They let you experiment, fail, and refine—all without the pressure of perfecting your art. Plus, they’re a ton of fun!

Next week, we’ll take those thumbnails and start building the final pages, complete with inking tips and tricks. Until then, happy sketching—and don’t forget to have fun with it!

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