Comic Strip Character Design
Design original comic characters and tell a story in 6 panels. Links art, creative writing, and character development. Highly engaging for reluctant writers who will willingly write dialogue and story through visual form.
Drawing
Ages 6–1160 minsEasyIndividual
Watch on YouTube
Search: "how to draw comic strip characters kids tutorial easy" — video tutorials from popular craft channels
What you'll need
- A3 paper pre-ruled into 6 panels
- Pencil
- Black fine-liner or felt tip
- Coloured pencils or markers
How to do it
- Discuss what makes a good comic character: a look, a superpower or quirk, a clear expression range.
- Sketch the main character first — practise different expressions (happy, scared, angry, surprised).
- Plan the 6-panel story: panel 1 = setup, panels 2-5 = problem/action, panel 6 = resolution.
- Lightly pencil in each panel.
- Add speech bubbles and thought bubbles.
- Ink over pencil lines with fine-liner.
- Add colour.
💡 Tips
Show examples from published comics (Beano, Asterix, Tintin) as inspiration. Discuss how artists communicate emotion through expression without words. The comic format removes the intimidation of blank-page writing.
Books and materials
Convenience links for everything mentioned above. We link to Amazon — LessonKind may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Comic art books
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H How to Draw Superheroes and Cartoon Characters — Christopher Hart
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M Making Comics: Storytelling Secrets of Comics, Manga and Graphic Novels — Scott McCloud