The Art and Craft of Zine Printing: Bringing Creative Visions to Life with Ex Why Zed
An informative 5 minute read.
At Ex Why Zed, we understand that printing a zine is more than just producing a publication—it’s about bringing a creative vision to life with precision, quality, and a deep understanding of the message it conveys. Zines are unique, personal expressions of art, culture, identity, and activism. Whether you’re aiming to self-publish a zine, create a perfect bound zine, or produce an eye-catching stapled zine, we are here to guide you through the journey, from the first spark of creativity to the final printed masterpiece. Our expertise lies not just in the technical aspects of zine printing, but also in helping creators preserve the essence of their vision, ensuring it resonates through every page.
To help you make informed print choices when you self-publish a zine, we’ve analysed and dissected a series of recent zine printing projects that highlight how different binding methods, paper choices, and design considerations come together to create exceptional zines. Whether you are producing an A5 zine, exploring perfect binding for a polished finish, or opting for a stapled zine for a raw, DIY feel, the following case studies will offer valuable insights into how you can elevate your zine with thoughtful, expert printing. From bold political statements to dynamic art and music explorations, each project reveals the creative potential of zine printing and how Ex Why Zed brings these ideas to life with care and craftsmanship.
Zine Printing Ideas
Let’s dive into the journey of these incredible zines and discover how we helped each project achieve its unique impact through expert printing solutions.
Burnt Roti Issue 5: Provocative Design with a Political Edge
The journey with Burnt Roti Issue 5 was a testament to the power of zine printing in delivering a bold, unflinching narrative. This zine tackles complex issues surrounding British-Asian identity politics, combining fierce political commentary with striking design elements. The cover alone—a vivid, provocative illustration featuring prominent political figures—sets the tone, while the choice of perfect bound zine ensures that the publication has a durable, professional finish while staying true to its rebellious spirit.
From the matte lamination on the cover to the 115gsm silk inner pages, Burnt Roti Issue 5 offers a tactile contrast that enhances the experience. The distressed typography and high-quality full-colour illustrations speak volumes about the zine’s theme of defiance against the status quo. The perfect binding method, paired with Ex Why Zed’s precision in colour printing, allowed for a premium finish that didn’t dilute the raw energy of its content. This project highlights how thoughtful paper and binding choices—coupled with technical advice and collaborative spirit—bring out the zine’s full potential.
Read the full Burnt Roti Issue 5 Zine case study here ›
So Young Magazine Issue 50: Celebrating Music and Culture
When So Young Magazine reached its 50th issue, Ex Why Zed was there to support them in producing a perfect bound zine that not only celebrated the magazine’s milestone but also showcased the energy and vibrancy of the independent music scene. Featuring dynamic photography, bold typography, and an eclectic mix of artists, this issue was designed to resonate with music lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
The vibrant A5 zine format combined with perfect binding made this publication both compact and substantial, inviting readers to experience its content up close while maintaining a sleek, professional look. The use of full-colour images, interspersed with vivid neon hues and typography, perfectly captured the magazine’s essence. By advising on cost-effective paper types and ensuring the content maintained visual consistency, Ex Why Zed helped So Young Magazine deliver a publication that truly stands out in the world of music journalism.
Read the full So Young Issue 50 Zine study here ›
Cunning Folk Magazine: An Efficient, Fast-Paced Print Journey
For Cunning Folk Magazine, a publication that blends mystical and folklore-inspired content, the challenge was not only the tight turnaround time but also the need for precision and consistent quality. This A5 zine, produced on FSC-certified paper, needed a seamless stapled zine format that would offer both durability and a tactile, portable experience for readers. The use of digital printing for this short-run project ensured cost-effectiveness without compromising on the zine’s premium look.
Ex Why Zed’s customer-focused approach, along with guidance on digital versus litho printing for small runs, ensured that Cunning Folk Magazine was produced quickly and effectively. The tactile uncoated paper stock and stapled binding gave the magazine a DIY, approachable feel, while maintaining the quality of print, ensuring every page—whether filled with detailed illustrations or insightful text—was printed to perfection.
Read the full Cunning Folk creative writing zine case study here ›
Shooter Issue 17: Bringing Poetry and Design Together
Shooter Issue 17, a literary journal exploring 'The Unknown', exemplifies how design and content work together to elevate the narrative. Produced with perfect binding and using a premium 120gsm uncoated stock for inner pages, this perfect bound zine seamlessly combined the elegance of poetry with the raw power of visual art. The choice of pastel greens and minimalist typographic choices reinforced the theme of exploration while keeping the visual narrative clean and readable.
At Ex Why Zed, we worked with the editor to navigate technical challenges, from adjusting images for print to ensuring that each page of Shooter Issue 17 felt cohesive with the zine’s artistic vision. The perfect binding method not only preserved the tactile quality of the zine but also elevated its status as a collectible piece. The seamless integration of design and content showcased Ex Why Zed’s ability to handle intricate creative projects with expertise and precision.
Read the full Shooter Issue 17 case study here ›
In A Flash: A Zine That Captures the Spirit of Sports Fans
Tyler Dolph’s In A Flash, a zine that captures the fervor of Columbus Crew FC’s passionate fans, is an excellent example of how the A5 zine format can bring to life a dynamic, high-energy project. The perfect binding technique used for this project ensured that each page—a stunning collection of full-colour images and bold typography—was beautifully presented and durable enough to withstand heavy handling by fans.
By using uncoated silk stock and providing guidance on high-quality full-colour printing, Ex Why Zed helped Tyler create a publication that was as much a collectible piece of art as it was a celebration of sport. The A5 zine format was perfect for this type of project, offering just the right balance between portability and visual impact.
Read our perfect bound photography zine case study ›
Meat Magazine 8: Crafting a Raw and Eco-Conscious Zine
Meat Magazine 8 is a prime example of how stapled zines can be used to create visually impactful publications that reflect a unique and raw aesthetic. Printed on recycled paper stock, the magazine aligns with eco-conscious values while presenting cutting-edge design. The stapled binding allows the zine to maintain its zine-like quality while still offering a professional presentation that engages readers through its bold typography and experimental layouts.
Ex Why Zed's expertise in choosing the right materials for the project—FSC-certified recycled stock—ensured that Meat Magazine 8 not only delivered visually but also aligned with sustainable publishing practices. The stapled zine format offered the perfect solution for an indie publication that needed to reflect its DIY roots while maintaining high print standards.
Read the case study of the first zine we ever printed ›
A-Z Lookbook 24 by Zeros Art: A Visual Masterpiece
A-Z Lookbook 24 by Zeros Art blends the worlds of pop culture and artistic illustration in a stunning A5 zine format. The perfect binding and use of FSC-certified silk paper ensured that the finished product was both luxurious and tactile. The bright and contrasting colours of the illustrations jump off the pages, while the minimalist typography ensures the art takes centre stage.
Ex Why Zed's input in choosing the right paper stock and providing expert guidance on print quality ensured that every detail—from the vivid colours to the crispness of the typography—was faithfully rendered. This perfect bound zine showcases how powerful design and quality production come together to elevate a creative vision.
Enjoy the case study of our creative industry zine printing ›
Phantasmag Issue 1: Horror and Art in Perfect Harmony
Finally, Phantasmag Issue 1—a zine that merges horror, music, and art—was printed with precision to reflect its bold and evocative content. The perfect binding of this A5 zine allowed for a professional finish that didn’t compromise the raw energy of the design. The restrained use of colour, with black-and-white illustrations punctuated by flashes of pink, sets the tone for this dark exploration of horror culture.
The collaboration between Ex Why Zed and Phantasmag ensured that the technical aspects—colour conversion, paper choices, and layout adjustments—were all executed seamlessly, resulting in a visually cohesive publication that aligned with the zine’s unique themes.
Read the perfect bound zine printing case study here ›
Peak Magazine Issue 4: Pushing Boundaries with Large-Scale Printing
Peak Magazine Issue 4 pushes the boundaries of traditional zine design with its oversized A3 format, making it an immersive publication that highlights urban and natural landscapes with stunning visuals. The unbound, nested format enhances the tactile experience, inviting readers to fully engage with the content. The use of vibrant hues, combined with sleek typography and spacious layouts, creates a perfect balance between the text and images. The dynamic layouts, full-page spreads, and bold imagery allow each spread to breathe, while still guiding the reader through the magazine’s visual narrative. The oversized format elevates the storytelling, enabling readers to fully appreciate the detailed photography that captures the urban grit and natural beauty featured throughout.
The design choices in Peak Magazine Issue 4 reflect its adventurous ethos, pairing experimental design with a refined layout. The combination of muted greyscale photography with bursts of primary colours injects energy into the pages, while the simple yet bold typography ensures the message remains clear. The use of negative space throughout the magazine amplifies the dramatic effect of each image, giving each element room to breathe without overwhelming the reader. This careful attention to layout, coupled with high-quality printing, allows the magazine’s eclectic design to shine through, creating a visually stunning publication that reflects the spirit of exploration and urban culture.
Read the case study of this impressive A3 zine here ›
Still Listening Issue 9: A Music Zine Like No Other
Still Listening Issue 9 combines dynamic design with a celebration of emerging music talent. The zine's experimental approach to typography and its juxtaposition of bold, full-bleed images with clean body text creates a visually engaging experience. With two alternate covers and a strong sense of individuality, this project highlights how A5 zines can reflect the energy of music and subcultures while still maintaining a clear visual identity. The uncoated paper stock adds a tactile dimension to the zine, creating a matte finish that allows the vibrant illustrations and images to shine. The design choices—ranging from bright colour contrasts to a minimalist layout—capture the raw energy of the indie music scene, making it both a collector's piece and a visual feast.
The typography in Still Listening Issue 9 is a standout feature, with its mix of bold sans-serif headings and playful script fonts. The script on the cover adds a personal, handwritten touch, enhancing the indie zine vibe while maintaining readability. Inside, the careful balance between large images and white space ensures that the zine doesn’t overwhelm the reader, despite its bold design. This interplay between text and imagery invites the reader to slow down and fully absorb the content, whether it’s an interview with an emerging artist or a feature on a new music genre. The A5 zine format complements this design, making it both portable and visually compelling—perfect for music enthusiasts and zine collectors alike.
Read our music zine printing case study here ›
Worldie 23/24 Lookbook: Showcasing Style and Sport
The Worldie 23/24 Lookbook is a visual celebration of artistic expression and football culture. The perfect binding in this A5 zine format elevated the experience, providing a sleek and professional finish while still capturing the vibrant energy of the street football community. The use of vivid colours, combined with sharp typography, helped to make this publication an immersive journey into the style and spirit of Worldie FC. The mix of street fashion photography and dynamic graphic design embodies the fluid, energetic world of football culture, offering a bold contrast between athleticism and style. Each page is carefully designed to draw attention, making the lookbook as much about the art of football as it is about fashion.
Beyond the visuals, Worldie 23/24 Lookbook conveys a deep sense of community and inclusivity, which is reflected in both the design and content. The interplay between full-colour spreads and minimalist text gives the publication a unique rhythm, allowing the reader to be absorbed in both the visuals and the stories. The decision to use FSC-certified materials reinforces the brand’s eco-conscious stance, aligning with the values of sustainability in football culture. The A5 zine format complements the need for a publication that’s accessible, portable, and packed with punch, making it a perfect blend of style, art, and activism.
Read the perfect bound zine case study here ›
The Dyke Express: A Bold Zine with a Powerful Message
The Dyke Express is unapologetic, loud, and proud—just like its message. With its hand-drawn, bold typography and powerful illustrations, this zine creates a compelling narrative of lesbian identity and community. The A3 unbound, nested format made it easy to engage with, allowing the bold statements and evocative visuals to dominate the page. The large-scale design choices reflect the raw, unfiltered voice of the zine, with each page demanding attention. The black-and-white colour scheme, complemented by illustrations of diverse faces and bold typography, reinforces the message of unity within diversity, capturing the strength and power of the lesbian movement. This unbound design invites readers to freely interact with the publication, reinforcing its grassroots, DIY ethos.
The design of The Dyke Express goes beyond just aesthetics—it serves as an act of rebellion and a call to action. Each page is deliberately minimalist, allowing the powerful illustrations and typography to speak for themselves. The hand-drawn lettering, with its angular strokes, offers a raw, personal touch that mirrors the rebellious spirit of the lesbian community.
By choosing a black-and-white colour scheme, the zine amplifies its bold, uncompromising messages without distraction. The rawness of the design complements the rebellious tone of the content, making it a powerful statement piece for LGBTQ+ activism. The unbound, nested layout further emphasises the zine’s intent to be shared, passed around, and consumed by as many as possible—creating a communal experience of pride, anger, and empowerment.
Get inspired to print a large format zine, with the full case study ›
Why Ex Why Zed is Your Partner for Zine Printing
We hope this selection of winning zine styles has helped you visualise what can be achieved with zine printing at Ex Why Zed. They were curated to give a wide spectrum of print choices.
Whether you are looking to self-publish a zine, create a perfect bound zine, or explore stapled zine printing, Ex Why Zed’s expertise and commitment to quality ensure your zine project is in expert hands. From the A5 zine to larger formats, every publication benefits from our personalised approach, ensuring that your creative vision is brought to life with precision, care, and high-quality craftsmanship.
Our dedication to sustainability, attention to detail, and expert advice means that we are not just a printer—we are a partner in your creative journey.
14 Reasons to Print your Zines with Ex Why Zed
🌟 Accessible, Expert, Friendly Advice. If you haven't done this before, don't worry, we have!
👩💻 Free File Check and Preflight. We aim for perfection and will let you know if anything needs changing.
💃🏻 We Talk the Talk, But We Also Walk the Walk. ⏰ Replies in minutes from print experts, not days or weeks.
🌲 All Papers are FSC Certified. Sustainable printing guaranteed and we also use vegetable inks for litho jobs.
🚀 Fast Turnaround. Zine delivery in 3 working days. Perfect bound zine delivered in 4.
🏆 Finest Digital and Litho Print. HP Indigo and Heidelberg Litho - the best possible quality for short, medium and long print runs.
🖨️ Professional Printing process. Best industry practice, not a Mickey Mouse website where you throw JPGs at the screen then keep your fingers crossed.
🛠️ Flexible Custom Options. The answer is "Yes", now what is the question?
🖼️ Enjoy 500 Case Studies in our Portfolio. Not made-up CGI nonsense like the other sites have 🤣
😍 A Solution For Every Budget. We always quote for a range of quantities to help hit your target price.
🎁 FREE Paper Samples. Make the best possible choice from our extensive print options.
🌍 FREE UK Delivery. Your print will arrive by tracked courier, the day after it leaves us.
🌍 Worldwide Shipping at cost price from a network of couriers.
✅ Transforming Your Ideas Into Print Since 2006.
Ready to make your zine a reality?
Start a conversation with us today on hello@exwhyzed.com or 01206 766647 and see how we can transform your idea into a beautifully printed publication that speaks to your audience.