Comic book art board

A comic book art board is the physical medium where artists create original pages, typically on heavyweight bristol paper.

About this subject

A comic book art board, also known as a board or illustration board, is the traditional material used by comic artists to create original pages. Made from high quality bristol paper, usually white, it offers a smooth and durable surface that supports multiple layers of pencil, india ink, and even corrections. The most common dimensions are 11 inches by 17 inches, about 28 by 43 centimeters, but they vary depending on the publisher and comic format.

For decades, nearly every printed comic book was drawn on physical boards. The process involved the penciller sketching the page, then the inker applying black ink over the lines. The original board, with the inked artwork, was then sent to the publisher, where it was photographed and reduced for printing. This workflow dominated until the widespread adoption of digital tools in the 2000s. Many fans and collectors value original boards as unique works of art, which can fetch high prices at auctions, especially from famous artists or historic covers.

The typical weight of a professional quality board is 200 to 300 grams per square meter, which prevents ink from bleeding through. Artists like Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko worked on boards that were later colored separately. Today, despite digital art, many illustrators still prefer hand drawn lines on board, and brands like Strathmore and Canson produce paper specifically for comics. The texture of the board, visible in macro shots, is part of the charm of original art.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard size of a comic book art board?

The most common size is 11x17 inches (28x43 cm), but variations like 10x15 exist for smaller formats.

Why are original art boards so valuable?

Because they are unique, hand drawn pieces, often by famous artists, making them collector's items. Auctions can fetch thousands of dollars.

Are physical boards still used in modern comics?

Yes, although digital is common, many artists still produce original paper art, and publishers like Marvel and DC accept both formats.