Hello! This guide was made for people who are new to the online zine or collaborative project community. This is good for people looking to be apart of projects, want to buy a zine, or simply want to learn more. This guide was made with physical, for-profit zines in mind but has tips that also apply to charity, digital-only, and free zines. This guide is not intended for people looking to mod for the first time, but for first-time contributors or buyers.What is a "Zine"?
There are some variations of zines. In this context, a zine is a physical or digital self-published book that is available for a limited amount of time. Physical zines may vary in binding (saddle-stitch, perfect-bound, spiral-bound) or material (paperback vs hardcover).Most zines in this community have a small window of when it will be available—you will not be able to get the zine after the window is closed. Although zines can be produced and shipped by one person—this guide is made with application-based collaborative projects that feature a group of moderators and contributors in mind.The Risk Factor
Please note that every project is different and it's important to use your best judgment on the risks you are willing to take. Everyone will measure and consider risks differently. Note that all physical projects have risks. This is a reality, some may not be fulfilled due to a lack of sales.In addition to risks there are just some unavoidable events and delays that happen in projects ranging from; illness of team members that can delay progress, communication delays due to timezones, lost or misplaced packages, manufacturing errors...etc, that you should consider as it could affect your schedule or availability in the event that the schedule needs to be shifted.What does "joining a zine mean"?
It means contributing to the project, hence being called a "contributor". As a contributor, the expectations are that you
1. communicate with your moderators about any delays or problems you may face
2. adhere to the schedule by meeting deadlines
3. assist in marketing the project so it's successful
4. in return a contributor is typically rewarded with any digital products and (if sales are successful) a physical copy of the project.What is a moderator?
A moderator is someone whos is in charge of the project. A leadership role. Somewhat of a manager.How old do you have to be to join a zine?
Please read the project FAQ as this is determined by a moderator.
On average, most zines will set an age limit of 16 years or older. Some zines will specify 18 years or older for reasons such as payout and address collection for compensation practices, age-restricted content, or to create an adult-only space.Derivatives and Deviations
Not all projects are explicitly marketed as "zines". Although some may vary in end product, the process and target audience is typically the same

art book (art only)
anthology (writing focused, but can still have art)
Calendars & Planners
Poker/Playing Cards
Tarot Cards
Trading Card (TCG)
Cookbooks
Merch Box
Advent Calendar

What would you like to learn about?

1. The Basics	types of projects, typical zine timelines & structures, mod credibility & roles
2. Applications	what to know before applying, contributor expectations, portfolio tips
3. The Checklist	The things you should know before applying to a zine

Disclaimer: Every zine is different. These are just tips and some general information about zines. They aren't guaranteed to help you find successful zines or get accepted into zines.

So... you found a cool zine. Now what?

Research. Research. Research. Any zine shared by a zine retweet/reblog account does not have an automatic green check of approval for being credible. Take your time to research the zines you choose to dedicate time to and support. Please do not blindly invest yourself in something you know nothing about and hope that everything will just turn out okay in the end.So, where should you start? When it comes to researching zines, the most important things to consider is "What do I know about the zine?" and "Who are the mods?". The goal is not to encounter a displeasing surprise.

1. The Basics	This is the bare minimum of what you should know about the zine. Zine concept, content restrictions — or lack of them —, timeline, compensation.
2. Mod Credibility	The people are the face of the zine. They control the project. They're responsible for sharing news about the zine, looking over contributor applications, and making decisions for the zine. You want someone you can trust in this role.
3. Mod Roles	What exactly are the mods doing? What do these roles entail?
;tldr	Just need a refresher? Here's a summary

The Basics

Types of ProjectsThere are three categories that zines fit into: Free, Digital-only, and Physical. Each category has a different level of commitment and responsibility. This resource was made primarily with Digital-Only and Physical zines in mind due to the higher stakes and responsibility that come with it.

*	Free	Digital-Only	Physical
-	Low Risk, Low Reward	Low Risk, Med Reward	High Risk, No Guaranteed Reward
Timeline	shorter compared to other projects due to the lack of production.	a little longer than free zines due to their preorder phase	the timeline can be delayed by many things from manufacturing, shipping, and holidays.
Application Process	may vary. But typically open to anyone who signs up (aka free-for-all)	limited spots due to payout logistics. a portfolio with completed previous work will be needed.	The outcome of physical zines is all about the success (or failure) of preorders so the apps are cut throat
Recommended for Creators	+ new to the zines and want to learn more + are looking for something casual + prefer to have someone keep them accountable for deadlines + prefer projects with minimal restrictions	+ communicating with your moderator can be viewed similarly to working with a client for commissions + are into niche fandoms and ships + are looking to try something new creatively with some restrictions and curation	+ that enjoy the rush of being rejected 😔 + that can meet deadlines and have great communication skills. Contributors have the ability to delay or affect the timeline. + looking to challenge themselves creatively
Typical Payout	Digital PDF	Digital PDF Compensation if for Profit	Digital PDF (if standard project) a physical full bundle if profits allow compensation if for-profit & proceeds allow

Zine Timelines
Typically a zine will run from about 6 to 9 months depending on the size of the project—sometimes up to a year. It's broken up into a few parts:

Pre-planning - Preparing to launch the project by creating a team, planning out details, etc
Interest Check - to gauge what potential customers and contributors want from the project and how to move forward
Mod Applications - if a full team is not already formed
Contributor Applications - what most readers will be interested in
Creation Period - when content is being made; usually when spotlights go out
Preorders - this only happens once. Zines are typically run as single print & limited time. No reprinting . If you want the zine, mark it in your calendar multiple times.
Production/Shipping Period - when zines and merch are ordered and shipped to the shipping mod and then shipped to customers
Leftovers The absolute LAST time to get anything if you missed preorders. Oftentimes these pieces may include grade B quality and anything leftover. (This is mostly for merch since it is typically bought in bulk and not a specific amount)
PLEASE NOTE not all zines have leftover sales. DO NOT rely on leftovers if you are a consumer.

Zine Announcements
This is information typically shared as content throughout the zine period. It is in good practice that these things are shared for transparency for the project

Mod Info released before mod applications AND updated before contributor applications. See Mod Credibility for more
Contributor List typically released within two weeks of emails being sent, at the LATEST. Sometimes zines do need time to correspond with potential contributors as well as collect information, create the graphics, and correctly tag 30-40 contributors. Although it is a simple task, it is time-consuming.
Is typically posted BEFORE the first check-in.
Contributor Spotlights vary from zine to zine, their purpose is to give you an idea to what type of content can be inside the zine. Some zines may not have spotlights. You can inquire about them if you want.
If not both, there should be at least a contributor list or contributor spotlights. Knowing who the contributors are can help potential buyers know if they'd like the style of content in the zine.
Zine Previews are typically released throughout preorders, but could also start before. This gives you an inside peek at what is inside the zine. Usually, previews are posted by the contributors and reblogged/tweeted to the zine accounts.
Charity Donation Typically this is the last post from a zine account, concluding the project. Some projects will let you know what charity the project is supporting before pre-orders begin. The zine has to be a charity zine.

Information you should pay attention to:Mod Information Availability
Oftentimes, moderators will wait for a full team before announcing who is on their team, but this is a red flag to potential moderators. Mod information should be available if the project is public. Mod applicants should know who they could be working for.
TIP: Do not apply to a zine if there is NO mod information available. You have the right to know who you will be working with. Do not go in blind. If they are asking you for information about yourself (usually via application), they should provide information about themselves first.Tone
There should be some professionalism from the zine. How do they reply to questions, are they courteous or rude?Some zines have a "voice" like how Wendy's is sarcastic. Although some may not appreciate it, this is fine. (As long as they still reply to important things with actual information.)Check out the FAQ
Oftentimes it has answers to most of the information you need. Usually, it should be in an easy-to-find space — usually, the zine Tumblr or carrd will have a link easily accessible.TIP Do NOT go straight to the ask box or Curiouscat with your questions. Check out the FAQ and social media pages to see what information they provide to the public without needing to be prompted. It's important to know what they are sharing and overlooking.
Note: Not having the information available does not automatically mean they're trying to hide things.Deadlines
Keep track of deadlines if you wish to apply or preorder!TIP for Mods: Make the deadline easy to see if you're advertising something! Type it out in text area as well as having it in the image, especially if you have it in a gif and it is not always present!Accessibility
How easily accessible information is? Can you easily find the information or do you have to dig for it? If the information is easily available, the mods are showing themselves as communicative and organized. Two traits that you want from a Moderator, especially as a contributor.What to look for in the FAQ:

Content Rating - SFW (13+) or NSFW (18+)
Content Warnings and Restrictions - no shipping, only shipping. Gore? Smut? Violence?
Zine Specs - how big the zine is (A5, Letter, etc), is it digital or print?
Project Size - how many contributors are they planning on accepting?
Proceeds - where does the money go? Charity or Profit? Maybe it's a free zine. If it's for profit, how are the profits being divided?
Charity - some zines begin with a charity in mind while others wait till around preorders to announce. Some zines may wait and allow their contributors to vote on it since they're directly contributing.
Compensation - some zines promise a free printed version of the zine, while some only promise a digital copy and a physical copy ONLY if the preorder permits. Merch artists are sometimes only compensated with the merch they designed.
The information you receive WILL vary depending on what stage the zine is at. (i.e. before Interest Checks vs Preorders)

Mod Credibility

Here are some things you may want to consider when looking up moderators. If you were thinking of becoming a moderator it helps to build up your credibility as well.Measuring Credibility
As mentioned before, all zines have risks and sometimes you may find them in a mod team. Every person will weigh risk differently. Some people may not care how many projects a person is in, or how old their mods are, but some might.The goal of this research is not to become overly familiar with the moderator team but to determine if they have provided enough information to seem sincere and/or credible enough to take a risk and embark on a 9 month to 1 year project with them.Red Flag If a mod refuses to give information about themselves "before a full mod team is assembled" do not pass go, do not collect $200, and do not apply to the zine. You deserve to know who you will be working with.Social Media
A social media link is like putting a name to a face. So many people share the same name, it's important to know who they are as an individual on the internet. This does NOT mean needing to be overfamiliar with them, but more to gauge if their online persona is human-like, genuine, and hopefully trustworthy.Red Flag Refusing to share profiles, newly made, or empty profiles.
This can indicate hiding a past wrongdoing.Age
Not required on the zine page, but should not be hard to find if looking into the mod team. Age is extremely important if the zine has NSFW content even as a side zine — all mods should be over 18. In good practice, any zine with any NSFW content should have all team members be over 18.Red Flag: A finance mod should be over the age of 18. Most prefer an older mod as they are typically seen as more knowledgeable about taxes and budgeting.Note Age is not always a sign of maturity or knowledge.Experience
Often, online experience is the best form of experience as it can be looked up. Most zines look for past zine mod experience, but overall, something that shows the ability to commit to a long-term project is a good experience. For example, experience moderating events like Big Bangs or fan weeks/months is applicable. Contributor experience in zines, as well as Bigbang participation, are also applicable.Note Sometimes...experience is not a reflection of ability.Past Projects
Have they completed projects already and how did they turn out? Look up the zines to check them out. If you know people from their past projects, don't be afraid to ask about how they were on the project.Red Flag: Being in too many ongoing zines at once. Consider the schedule of each zine as well as their job.

Mod Roles

A mod team is very important, some roles maybe more important to you. Here's some more information about teamsMod Size
Most mod teams average around 5 people to help balance the responsibilities and roles that are needed to make the project run smoothly.
Red Flag: Watch out for bigger zine teams, oftentimes it allows the opportunity for people to just "hang out" without any tasks or responsibilities.Tip: Watch out for zines that have multiple people with the same role or "empty titles". Oftentimes it is just a glorified title for "didn't really do anything".Mod Intern
Interning is a way to get some experience as a mod. Typically Interns help with organization and communication.

these roles are often accompanied with another role and sometimes not specified

Head Mod

started the project
is not and should not be a stand-alone role.
It is a RED FLAG if this is their ONLY role. As it could be an "empty title" as no responsibilities or tasks are specifically expected from this role
Typically makes the "final call" on big decisions

General Mod

usually a combo of organization and communication mod
A general mod is not needed if an organization & communication mod is listed (unless it is a big project)
Note: this title is often an "empty title" as no responsibilities or tasks are specifically expected from this role

Organization Mod

aka the project manager
usually knows what's happening and needs to be done
keeps things organized: spreadsheets, Google Drive, inquiries
usually manages the discord server
typically handles the check-ins if no art or writer mod
is often also the organization mod

Communication Mod

aka the Communications Manager
usually knows what's happening
typically talks to the contributors and helps draft messages for socials, emails, and contributors
is often also the organization mod

Art Mod

in charge of artists—giving feedback and managing check-ins
usually has more say in artist assignments and applications

Writing/beta Mod

aka the editor
in charge of writers —giving feedback and managing check-ins
usually has more say in writers assignments and applications
betas fics for zine

Production Mod

should be 18+
often also the shipping mod
can also be the finance mod
knows of manufacturers
usually makes templates
prepares merch for printing based on communications with manufacturers
should have experience making merch

Discord Mod

often the general mod
or the organization mod
or the communication mod
should not be a stand-alone role
a team does NOT need more than one discord mod

these roles are often more time consuming

Social Media Mod

aka the Marketing Manager
runs all the social media accounts: twitter, tumblr, instagram, carrd, curiouscat, email
sometimes works with the graphic mod to plan social media events
probably should know some html/css for tumblr or at least how it works
has the most time sensitive job as posts usually go up at specific times of the day
social media pages typically run in their timezone

Graphics Mod

requires time management and organization skills as well as technical skills
should have knowledge in basic design practices and typesetting
knowledge in design software of choice
designs all the social media graphics: contributor list, mod list, spotlights, banners, preorder graphics, store graphics
usually does chunks of work at a time then waits until needed again
sometimes works with an illustrator to make the cover
typically designs the tumblr and carrd layouts
is often also the layout mod

Finance Mod

aka the accountant
needs to be 18+
budgeting skills
manages storefront with shipping mod
manages the Paypal and project funds
needs to be knowledgeable in taxes
can also be the production mod

Shipping Mod

in charge of fulfillment
should be 18+
should have experience shipping packages
must be able to pack and ship orders
can also be the production mod

Layout/Format Mod

the person who's putting the zine together
works with the production and/or shipping mod to make the zine and determine the specs
knowledge in printing, designing for print, and bookmaking (if in a printed zine)
knowledge in Indesign or software equivalents
basic knowledge of typesetting (if there are fics, it's important)
can make templates
is often also the graphics mod

What roles are most important to the team?
Not to say that the other roles aren't important, but these are arguably the biggest impact roles and are front-facing. If they are not doing their job properly, it will show.Finance — know who is in charge of the money.Shipping — know who is in charge of fulfillment. It may be important for some people to know where orders will be shipped from due to shipping restrictions.Social Media — know who's in charge of giving the public their answers.Formatting — They're in charge of putting together the project! Make sure you like their work.

;tldr

Overall, here are the basics you should know about a zine before applying for it. Although some this information is not important when buying zines, look for this information anyway. If this information is not available by preorders it reflects badly on the mods.Mod Information
Social Media links - Do not apply to anything without this information
Roles
Past ExperienceThings to know before applying as a contributor
General zine information: Theme, Schedule, Number of Contributors, Zine Rating, Compensation
Application RequirementsThings to know before preordering
Where are the proceeds going? - If its a charity zine, what is the charity?
Contributor listDeep Diving Into Zine Research
Check out our beginner's guide to zine research for more guidance.

Continue to Part 2: Applying to Zines

Getting Ready to Apply

This section is going to revolve around applying as a contributor.This can be broken up into two parts 1. What do I need to know before applying and 2. How to make a portfolio.

What to know before applying?

Read the FAQ. Every zine is not the same, often time contributors are disappointed because of this expectation.What is a guest contributor?
A guest is someone who was invited into the zine, thus skipping the application process.What is a pinch contributor?
A pinch is someone who can come into the zine during the creation period and cover for a contributor who had to drop out.Compensation - what you get for the time you put into the zine.
Some zines promise a free printed version of the zine, while some only promise a digital copy and a physical copy ONLY if the preorder sales permit. Some zines will split any remaining profits equally amongst team members.Deliverables what you're submitting to the zine.
Often times it's one illustration or a fic.
Tip if you are an artist applying to a print zine, make sure you have the resources to create art at 300 DPI in CMYK. Not all art programs support CMYK.Schedule
Check the schedule and make sure it works for you. Contributors are expected to follow the schedule and meet all the check-ins. It is good contributor etiquette to communicate with the mods if you need an extension.
Note while check-ins can be flexible, you do not want to be asking for an extension on the final due date.Portfolio Expectations (Check the FAQ)
Most zines will list their expectations in the FAQ. How many pieces of work, a word count, etc. Not following these expectations usually reflects poorly on applicants since it shows an inability to follow directions.
See: Tips on making your portfolio for more Be vigilant until the end
DO NOT check out of a zine after submitting your final piece. Stay up to date with the zine until the project has concluded completely. There are zine previews to look at, and often times a compensation form. Zines may also offer the opportunity to buy extra items at a production price.Typical Contributor Expectations Zine Etiquette

Use the Discord Server
Follow The Schedule
Communicate with your mods if you need accommodations
Do not share your work until the mods allow you too (typically during leftovers)
Typically contributors reserve the rights to their work, but are giving the project exclusivity to the work for a while. Allowing you to share your work after the project is wrapped.
Do not use the askbox meant for the public to ask the mods questions you have as a contributor. Instead, use the designated channel in the discord or DM a mod.
Put your name on the files you submit

Tips on making your portfolio

Your portfolio is important as this might be the first look at your workKeep your portfolio SFW
Unless the zine you're applying to is explicitly NSFW, it is in good practice to keep your portfolio SFW. Check the FAQ and application guidelines to see if the zine will allow NSFW content. If they do not specify, and you wish to share NSFW content, send them an ask.
Some moderators may not be comfortable with NSFW content and not all of them may be of age to view explicit content.Curate your portfolio - only showcase what you believe is your best work to make the best impression. You do not want to be remembered by your weakest piece.
Tip Try to include at least one piece from the fandom the zine is in. Especially if you're a writer, it's hard to read about characters you do not know.What should go into your portfolio?
Look at the application requirements and expectations. A lot of zines have them. But here are some general tips:
Artists: Most zines look for 6-10 examples of completed work that showcase an understanding of anatomy, composition, lighting, color, and perspective. Include pieces with backgrounds that set a scene!
Writers: Most zines look for 3 examples of work between 2-4k. Unlike art, reading a fic is more time-intensive so try to keep within their word count.
TIP "One shots" are better than excerpts, as you will need to write a short fic for the zine.What platform to use:
Artists:
The goal is to easily show the bulk of your work in 2 seconds. You do not want them to dig for your art amongst sketches and memes (that you did not draw).
Portfolio websites Carrd, Cara
File Sharing Websites Google Drive, Dropbox, sta.sh
Tip Try not to use websites like Twitter/Tumblr which can mix your art with other content, or require viewers to scroll a lot.
Tip Try not to hide your work within multiple folders that require viewers to search for your work.Writers
Pay attention to your formatting as well. If your fic is terribly formatted, it is distracting. Pay attention to your margins, the space between your paragraphs, and your font size.
File Sharing Websites Google Drive, Dropbox, sta.sh
Writing Websites Archive of our own.
Tip Try staying away from writing websites like Wattpad which is littered with ads or fanfiction.net which is banned in some countries.
Tip Try not to submit fanfiction from genres outside of the fandom to the zine you're applying to. Often time fanfiction relies on the reader already knowing the characters—and the moderators may not be familiar with the fandom you chose.Remember to check your Google Links
Check the settings on your google links to "anyone with the link can view". Some mods will skip your application if they can not view your portfolio.Put your name on your portfolio
It's generally a good idea to include your name on your portfolio. It's a pretty standard practice when submitting applications outside of zines—like for job or school applications.Portfolio reviews are subjective
Your acceptance into a project is not a direct reflection of your skillset. A zine is a curation of work—some styles, characteristics, or "vibes" are more versatile than others.

Continue to Part 3: The Zine Research Checklist

The Zine Research Checklist
Everyone considers different pros and cons before committing to a project. To get yourself started, here's a small list of important things you may want to know before applying.

Where is the money going?
Free Release
Charity (Which charity?)
For-Profit (How are the profits divided?)
Half Charity/Half Profit
Pay-For-Production
What are you getting for contributing?
The bare minimum is typically the digital products for free and the promise of whatever they can fulfill physically depending on the outcome of sales and the ability to purchase items at production value.
Who's On The Team? What do you know about them?
A mod team can make or break a project. You don't need their life story, they just need to have enough of a social presence to feel like a reliable person
Is this project worth the risk/time for you?
Some people are willing to take the risk.
When it comes to free zines, some people don't think they're worth the time.

Deep Diving Into Zine Research
Check out our beginner's guide to zine research for more guidance.Looking for more resources?
Check out atozines for more fandom zine related resources.
We have a whole list of community made resources from guides, tips, and templates. As well as a list of community accounts to find new projects to join.