STEP 1

CONCEPTUALIZE

Think about the general look, feel, and tone of your zine. What style and message do you want reflected? Use this time to create a space where you feel safe to think and explore. Look up examples of other zines to see what you gravitate towards.

Think of a title for your zine that communicates your zine concept.

STEP 2

ASSEMBLE

Use a single sheet of paper to create an 8 page mini-zine!

STEP 3

CREATE

You can fill the pages of your zine however you like. Here are some methods that you can use: Collaging, Doodling, Painting, Writing

If you are stuck, here are some content suggestions to get you started:
– Fill pages with images that help you to feel calm or give you hope.
– Create lists of things that you miss or that make you feel happy, thankful, overwhelmed etc.
– Record your thoughts everyday. Label it with the date and time. See how it changes or stays the same.
– Write supportive notes or tips for yourself.

Answer the following questions:
– What’s in your heart? Draw a heart and fill it with images and words.
– What is something new in your life?
– What have you learned?

STEP 4

SHARE

Zines are meant to be shared! However, it is okay to not share your innermost thoughts with everyone! But if you are comfortable with sharing your work, post it on social media or share it with your friends.

STEP 5

EXTEND

Just like your favorite cartoons or comic books, turn your zine into a series and make episodes every week or month!

WHAT'S NEXT?

Reflect. After you complete the activity, reflect on your experience:
– What did you learn during this process?
– What is something that surprised you about your outcome?

Dora Medrano Ramos

I am a Lead Maker Trainer at Maker Education Initiative where I develop and facilitate professional learning experiences for educators across the country.

Please Note

Your safety is your own responsibility, including proper use of equipment and safety gear, and determining whether you have adequate skill and experience. Power tools, electricity, and other resources used for these projects are dangerous, unless used properly and with adequate precautions, including safety gear and adult supervision. Some illustrative photos do not depict safety precautions or equipment, in order to show the project steps more clearly. Use of the instructions and suggestions found in Maker Camp is at your own risk. Maker Media, Inc., disclaims all responsibility for any resulting damage, injury, or expense.

Coping and Processing through Zine Making

30 min - 1 hour

TO COMPLETE

WHAT WILL YOU MAKE?

Zines (pronounced zeens) are homemade mini-magazines created through a collection of words and images pasted together.

Zines are typically used to share the author’s thoughts, ideas, musings, art, and/or information. Zines can be used as a tool for self-discovery and empowerment. The best zines are the ones that have personal meaning.

Through the activity of zine making, we can process the events and feelings that we have experienced — and learn to cope with and share our thoughts.

In this maker activity, your task is to create a zine that documents your: - Thoughts, feelings, and hopes - Events and activities - Anything you’d like to remember.

WHAT WILL YOU NEED?

Base materials: paper, assortment of writing utensils
Tools (optional): scissors, stapler
Connecting materials: glue, tape
Additional embellishment materials (optional): yarn, ribbon, post it notes, fabric, magazines, posters, assorted paper, paints, anything else you can find!