How to Draw a Manga Speech Bubbles Tutorial

How to Draw a Manga Speech Bubbles Tutorial

How to Draw Manga Speech Bubbles – Speech bubbles in manga are more than just containers for dialogue; they play a crucial role in setting the tone and mood of the conversation. Different shapes and styles can suggest emotions, volume, or context. Here, we’ll explore twelve common types of manga speech bubbles and their uses.

1. Basic Bubble

Description:

• The basic bubble is typically egg-shaped and is the most common form for standard dialogue in manga and comics.

Usage:

• This bubble is used for regular conversation. Its simplicity makes it versatile and easy to read.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw an oval or egg shape for the bubble.
• Add a “tail” pointing towards the speaker’s mouth or sound source.

2. Standing Bubble

Description:

• A vertically elongated version of the basic bubble.

Usage:

• Ideal for narrow panels or when space is limited horizontally.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw a taller, narrow oval.
• Ensure the tail still points accurately to the speaker.

3. Multiple Bubbles

Description:

• Consists of two or more connected bubbles.

Usage:

• Used to indicate a pause or a split in speech, such as hesitations or interrupted thoughts.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw a primary bubble with a secondary one connected by a small bridge.
• Use this to break up dialogue or show pacing.

4. Internal Pointer “Tail”

Description:

• The tail is directed internally within the panel.

Usage:

• Used when the speaker is off-panel or the dialogue is directed internally within the scene.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw the tail pointing towards the general direction of the speaker within the panel.

5. Jagged Bubble

Description:

• Features a jagged, spiky outline.

Usage:

• Conveys shouting, screaming, or loud noises.

Drawing Tips:

• Create sharp, angular edges around the bubble.
• Ensure the tail is similarly jagged to emphasize volume.

6. Wavy Bubble

Description:

• Characterized by a wavy outline.

Usage:

• Indicates weak, tired, or faint speech.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw undulating lines to form the bubble shape.
• The tail should also be wavy to match the bubble’s instability.

7. Dashed Line Bubble

Description:

• Composed of dashed lines.

Usage:

• Often used for whispered speech or gossip.

Drawing Tips:

• Use short, evenly spaced dashes to form the bubble.
• Ensure the tail maintains the dashed style.

8. Broadcast Bubble

Description:

• Resembles an explosion or starburst.

Usage:

• Used for broadcasted messages, such as radio or TV announcements.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw a starburst shape with many points.
• The tail can be simplified as a straight line if needed.

9. Tail-less Bubble

Description:

• A simple bubble without a tail.

Usage:

• Represents thoughts rather than spoken words.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw a simple, smooth oval or circle.
• Position it near the character’s head to suggest internal dialogue.

10. Cloud-like Bubble

Description:

• Soft, fluffy edges give it a cloud appearance.

Usage:

• Often used for dreamy or whimsical thoughts.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw rounded, fluffy edges.
• Use this for light-hearted or imaginative scenes.

11. Rectangular Bubble

Description:

• Rectangular with sharp or rounded corners.

Usage:

• Typically used for narration or captions.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw a rectangle with or without rounded corners.
• Position it strategically in the panel to avoid distracting from the main action.

12. Inverted Bubble

Description:

• Inverts the typical bubble shape.

Usage:

• Used for negative emotions or sarcastic remarks.

Drawing Tips:

• Draw an inverted or reversed shape, sometimes with a pointed tail.
• This can convey an unsettling or ironic tone.

Conclusion

Understanding the use of various speech bubbles in manga can greatly enhance your storytelling by visually conveying the tone and context of dialogue. Consistency in style throughout your work helps maintain clarity and immersion for readers. Experiment with these different styles to find the ones that best suit your narrative needs.