Screentone manga texture

Screentone: the dotted texture technique that defines the look of Japanese manga, creating shadows and visual effects.

About this subject

Screentone is a printing and sequential art technique widely used in Japanese manga to add textures, shadows, and gradients without manual hatching. It consists of adhesive or digital sheets with repeating patterns of dots, lines, or geometric shapes, which are cut out and applied over original drawings. The term derives from the trademark "Screentone" by the American company Zipatone, but today it refers generically to any texture transfer.

Screentone gained popularity in Japan from the 1960s onward, when artists like Osamu Tezuka began using these textures to increase efficiency in manga production. Unlike Western art, which often uses crosshatching, screentone provides a clean, consistent finish ideal for mass-produced comics. There are hundreds of patterns: from uniform dots ("Letratone") to textures of wood, water, clouds, and speed lines.

Today, digital screentone has largely replaced physical sheets, with software like Clip Studio Paint offering adjustable texture libraries. However, many artists still prefer manual screentone for its handcrafted feel and unpredictability. The technique is so iconic that it has become synonymous with manga aesthetics, influencing Western comics and illustrations.

Fun fact: screentone patterns are measured in lines per inch (lpi). For instance, 60 lpi is common for skin tones, while 85 lpi is used for denser shadows. The choice of pattern directly affects the perceived texture and mood of the scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is screentone and what is it used for?

Screentone is a technique using sheets with repeating patterns (dots, lines) to add textures and shadows in manga. It speeds up the artistic process and ensures visual consistency.

How do you apply screentone manually?

Cut the desired area of the adhesive sheet, position it over the drawing, and press. Use a knife to trim excess. Body heat activates adhesion.

Is screentone still used in digital manga?

Yes, but in digital form. Programs like Clip Studio Paint offer brushes and textures that mimic physical screentone, allowing scale and opacity adjustments.