Kickstarter for Graphic Novels

Crowdfunding has become a major way for independent comic creators to fund and sell graphic novels. A campaign lets readers pre-order your book — often with special editions and extras — and the money raised pays for printing. Here's how it works.

Each platform sets its own fees and rules — check the current terms before you launch.

Why crowdfund a graphic novel

• Funds a print run before you pay for it.
• Proves demand — you know how many copies people want.
• Special editions — hardcovers, signed copies, art prints — that fans love.
• Builds community around your work.

Know your numbers before you launch

Add up everything:

• Printing (often an offset print run for crowdfunded books)
• Rewards (prints, bookmarks, stickers)
• Shipping and packaging — often the most underestimated cost
• Platform and payment processing fees
• A buffer for surprises

Set your funding goal so that, if you just reach it, you can still deliver everything you promised.

Rewards people want

• The book (digital and print)
• A signed or special edition
• Add-ons: prints, original sketches, previous books
• Keep the number of reward tiers manageable — every extra item adds work and shipping cost

Build your audience first

Campaigns succeed mostly because of people who were already following you. Before launching, grow your email list and social following, and gather people who say they'll back the project on day one.

During the campaign

• Launch strong: tell your list and followers on day one.
• Post updates — art, progress, stretch goals.
• Thank backers publicly.

After funding: deliver

Communicate regularly about production and shipping, and deliver what you promised. Your reputation for delivering is what makes your next campaign succeed.

Then sell it everywhere

After backers receive their copies, the book can go to Amazon, your own store, and conventions.