Letterers in comic books are often the unsung heroes of the industry. Despite the fact that their work is an important part of the final product, they are often overlooked and are not as well-known as comic artists and writers. Lettering is an art form, and there are a variety of paths one can take to become a letterer. A passion for comics, as well as a good visual sense, are both essential requirements for becoming a letterer.
Lettering has undergone significant changes. Because letterers used to letter comics by hand, they needed to have excellent handwriting as well as a keen aesthetic sense. Many people nowadays use computers for lettering, which necessitates technology skills in addition to the traditional skills of typesetting, laying out lettering in an aesthetically pleasing manner, creating special effects with lettering, and understanding how the letter affects the overall look and feel of the piece. Some letterers who traditionally worked by hand had fonts created from their handwriting to preserve their signature style, while others who work on the computer create their own fonts or use fonts that are available for purchase.
Apprenticeship has been recommended by some comic book letterers as a way to break into the industry. Someone who wants to work as a letterer in this way should start by applying for jobs in the lettering department of comic book companies. The trainee’s job might start out as more supportive and administrative, but as time goes on, the trainee will be allowed to work on lettering projects and eventually advance to a senior position in the department. She or he may choose to stay with the company or become a freelancer after completing the training.
Attending art school and concentrating on graphic design and typography is another option. Some art schools specifically offer programs in comic book production and lettering in general, which can provide excellent training opportunities. When applying for jobs as a letterer, a degree can help, but it’s also a good idea to supplement it with experience from internships and summer jobs.
Some letterers are well-known in the industry and among serious comic book fans. Their distinct graphical styles are often associated with the series on which they work, and they are in high demand. Someone who wants to become a well-known letterer should consider working for a company that values graphic design and aesthetics, as this will allow the letterer to grow artistically while lettering comics.