Sometimes you just need a space where you can play. Not perform. Not impress. Just create something because it feels good to do so. That’s what I found in zines.

What Is a Zine?

Pronounced “zeen” (like magazine), a zine is a small, handmade booklet filled with anything you want—art, stories, thoughts, quotes, memories, or even a collection of your favorite doodles. Zines are free-form and deeply personal. They’re less about perfection and more about expression.

A Bit of Zine History

Zines have been around for nearly a century. They first took off in the 1930s within the science fiction community, where fans used them to share their own stories and artwork. Then came the punk scene in the 1970s, and later feminist and activist circles in the ‘80s and ‘90s, who used zines as a way to share ideas that didn’t always have space in mainstream media.

Zines were (and still are) a way to speak your truth without needing permission. They're powerful, messy, creative little things that have always lived at the edges—in the best way.

How to Make a Simple One-Page Zine

1. You don’t need fancy materials—just a single 8.5 x 11" sheet of paper and a little time.

2. Fold the paper in half lengthwise (hot dog style), then unfold.

3. Fold it in half widthwise (hamburger style).

4. Fold each end to the center fold so it’s now divided into 8 rectangles.

5. Unfold and refold widthwise.

6. Cut a slit halfway along the center fold.

7. Open up the paper and pinch the sides inward to form a cross shape.

8. Fold it into a little book—and you’ve got your zine!

Once you get the hang of it, it becomes this magical little form you can fill up however you want.

What Can You Put in a Zine?

Absolutely anything. This is your space. You could include:

• Affirmations

• Collage art

• Painted pages or watercolor swatches

• Random thoughts

• Stickers and pressed flowers

• A comic or poem

• A playlist or mood board

• Journal entries

• A story you want to tell, no matter how small

Zines are like a snapshot of your inner world. What you choose to share can be loud or quiet, colorful or simple, detailed or abstract. There are no rules.

What Can You Do With a Zine?

Keep it for yourself as a reminder of a certain time in your life.
Gift it to a friend who could use a pick-me-up.
Trade it with other artists and creatives.
Leave one in a public place for someone to find.
Turn it into a collection or a series.
Use it as your creative warm-up when you’re feeling stuck.

Zines can be private or shared, loud or subtle. You decide.

My Example: A Place Where You Can Just Play

What makes a zine so special is that it gives you space to explore without pressure. No expectations. No right or wrong way. You're not creating to check a box or get a "like"—you’re creating because it feels good.

In my latest zine, I made a small affirmation booklet. On the outside, I designed it like a letter I might send to a dear friend. When you unfold it, it reveals little painted pages, each holding a message I needed to hear that day:

• “You are loved.”

• “Keep growing.”

• “You can do this.”

I made it on a quiet afternoon when I really needed those reminders. And it ended up becoming the exact kind of message I wish I could carry in my pocket on the hard days. Now I can.

Whether you’re looking to heal, play, or simply try something new—zines are a beautiful, approachable way to reconnect with your creativity. You don’t need to be an artist. You just need to be willing to show up with a sheet of paper, some scraps, and a little curiosity.

Let it be messy. Let it be fun. Let it be you.

I’d love to see what you create!
If you decide to make your own zine, please share—it would truly make my day to see what you come up with. If you post it on social media, be sure to tag #createwithmata so I can cheer you on.

And if you’re looking to have a custom zine made just for you or as a heartfelt gift, check out my shop—I’d be honored to create something special.