October 12, 2017

Tillie Walden’s (′16) latest graphic novel, Spinning, recently came out from First Second. In some of her other comics, she included a list of the tools she drew the comic with in the back. But she said it didn’t feel right for Spinning. So I asked her what she used.

What were the tools you used for Spinning?

I have to try and think on this! It was my thesis project which feels like ages ago, but now I’m recalling my desk in the senior studio, which was covered with Uni Pin Pens, size 3. They’re very simple fine liner pens. I had my see-through graph-style ruler as well, which was my constant companion; my Magic Rub erasers; my Kuru Toga mechanical pencil (these are literally the best in the world, in my mind); and I worked on this hilarious eco-bristol board (ed: Probably Strathmore). It was like “wind power” or something? It had a green cover, with a picture of a windmill.

How did these tools differ from your previous comics work?

I went a little more simplistic with Spinning. In the past I would often use fountain pens or incorporate brush pens, or really any pens that felt exciting. But with Spinning I kept it nice and simple and used pens I had a long history with.

Did you learn any new drawing techniques while working on Spinning?

I don’t know if I learned any new drawing techniques, but I did learn to use lines in a new way. I learned a lot about drawing movement and using lines in a looser way.

Interview with Angela Boyle (′16).