Comic book art board

A comic book art board is the surface where artists create comic book pages, essential for the creative process and editorial production.

About this subject

A comic book art board is traditionally made of Bristol board or high-weight paper, typically in the standard size of 11x17 inches (28x43 cm). This format, called a two-page spread, allows the artist to draw two pages side by side or one page in detail. The surface must be smooth enough for pens and pencils but resistant to tearing and smudging.

Historically, art boards were the original support for pencil and ink drawings before digitization became popular. Artists like Jack Kirby and Will Eisner worked on paper boards, which were then sent to letterers and colorists. In Brazil, comic tradition also uses similar boards, with adaptations for A3 size, common in independent productions.

The creation process involves a blue pencil sketch (which doesn't reproduce in black and white scans), followed by inking. After completion, the board is scanned at high resolution and digitally colored. Original art boards are valuable to collectors, representing the artist's unique manual work. Modern studios often use graphics tablets, but the physical board remains a symbol of the traditional craft.

Interestingly, some boards are drawn on tracing paper overlaid for corrections, and others on black cardboard for lighting effects. Preservation requires storage in acid-free folders away from sunlight to prevent yellowing. In the collectors' market, an original board from a key issue can be worth thousands of dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The standard size is 11x17 inches (28x43 cm), known as the two-page spread format. In Brazil, A3 is also common.

What materials are used to draw on an art board?

Artists use Bristol board or high-weight paper, blue pencil for sketches, India ink for inking, and technical pens. The surface must be smooth and durable.

How can I preserve an original comic art board?

Store in acid-free folders, in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid folding or handling with dirty hands. Many collectors use pH-neutral protective sleeves.