Patreon and the iOS app

Comic Lab

Apple has initiated a plan to take 30% of all transactions made through the Patreon iOS app. That has caused creators to panic, spreading misinformation and making poorly thought-out claims. Many people trying to explain the situation to their backers got their facts wrong, hurting their own revenue. Dave and Brad sit down and sort out the facts from the friction.

On today's show:

• Dave's Comic-Con report: 5% drop in sales after a 38% rise in the previous year
• Patreon and the iOS app
• UPDATE: Kangaroo wieners
• Hand lettering tips

Summary

In this episode, Dave and Brad discuss their recent experiences at Comic-Con and other conventions. They talk about the success of their booths, the impact of new products, and the excitement of meeting fans. They also touch on the importance of maximizing booth space and creating a visually appealing display. The conversation segues into a discussion about the National Cartoonist Society and the potential for future convention appearances. Overall, the episode highlights the joy and satisfaction of participating in conventions as creators.

In the next part of the conversation, Brad and Dave discuss Patreon's payment system for iOS users and share tips on traditional lettering. Brad recalls using an Ames lettering guide, while Dave explains his process of using a digital font that resembles his handwriting. They emphasize the importance of clarity and readability in lettering and suggest techniques such as flipping the artwork to identify and fix issues.

Takeaways

• Conventions like Comic-Con allow creators to connect with fans and sell their merchandise.
• Maximizing booth space and creating an appealing display can enhance the overall experience for attendees.
• New products and exclusives can generate excitement and boost sales at conventions.
• The National Cartoonist Society offers opportunities for members to showcase their work at conventions.
• Meeting fans and receiving positive feedback can be a rewarding experience for creators. San Diego Comic-Con is a fun event, but exhibiting there can be expensive and may not be recommended for everyone.
• Patreon has announced changes to its payment system for iOS users. New memberships purchased through the iOS app will now be subject to Apple's 30% fee.
• Creators have the option to eat the cost of the fee or encourage new subscribers to join through the desktop version of the Patreon website.
• The conversation takes a humorous turn as Brad and Dave discuss kangaroos with multiple vaginas, highlighting the fascinating and sometimes bizarre aspects of biology. Confusion over a scene in a movie can lead to humorous conversations.
• Traditional lettering techniques include using an Ames lettering guide or a reference font.
• Clarity and readability are key in hand lettering
• Developing a personal style in lettering takes time
• Supporting Comic Lab on Patreon helps sustain the show

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.