Glossary of Comic Terms
Your Beginner’s Guide to Independent Comics & Indie Comics Terminology
At 247 Comics, we believe great stories should be accessible to everyone — whether you’re a longtime collector or picking up your first independent comic. Comic books have their own language, and terms like “variant cover,” “creator-owned,” or “limited edition” can feel overwhelming at first.
This glossary explains the most common comic book terms in simple language, with extra focus on concepts important to indie comics and creator-led publishing. We’ve included links to our shop where relevant so you can see these terms in action with our physical releases.
Browse alphabetically or jump to a section:
- Formats & Editions
- Publishing & Ownership
- Covers & Collectibles
- Story & Production Terms
- Community & Retail
Formats & Editions
Comic Book (or Floppy)
A single-issue periodical, usually 20–32 pages, stapled together. These are the classic “floppies” you find at your local comic shop or in our online store. Many independent comics start as floppies before being collected.
Graphic Novel
A longer, self-contained story published as a single book (paperback or hardcover). Unlike ongoing series, graphic novels often tell a complete tale in one volume. Many creator-owned indie comics are released or collected this way.
Trade Paperback (TPB) or Trade
A collection of several single issues (usually 4–6) bound together in paperback form. Trades make it easy to catch up on a story arc without hunting down individual floppies.
One-Shot
A standalone comic book that tells a complete story in a single issue. No prior reading required — perfect for trying a new indie comic from 247 Comics.
Mini-Series
A comic series with a planned beginning, middle, and end (usually 4–12 issues). Many of our creator-led projects follow this format so stories feel focused and satisfying.
Limited Edition
A comic or collection produced in smaller quantities than standard runs. At 247 Comics, our limited editions often include special features and sell out quickly.
Bundle
A packaged set of multiple issues or volumes at a discounted price. Check our shop for volume bundles of popular independent comics.
Publishing & Ownership
Independent Comics (Indie Comics)
Comics published outside the major “Big Two” companies (Marvel and DC). Indie comics are often more experimental, diverse in genre, and focused on fresh storytelling. 247 Comics is proud to be an indie comics publisher dedicated to creator-led work in sci-fi, fantasy, action, and beyond.
Creator-Owned
A project where the writers, artists, and creators retain partial or whole ownership of the characters, story, and rights instead of or alongside the publisher. This model gives creators more control and a bigger upside upon success.
Creator-Led
Similar to creator-owned, this emphasizes that the original storytellers drive the vision from start to finish. We built 247 Comics as a home for creator-led independent comics.
Publisher
The company that handles editing, printing, distribution, and marketing. As an independent comics publisher, 247 Comics focuses on supporting misfit creators while delivering high-quality physical issues to fans and retailers.
Covers & Collectibles
Variant Cover (or Alternate Cover)
A special version of a comic with different artwork on the front. Variants are often drawn by guest artists and printed in limited quantities, making them popular with collectors. We frequently release beautiful artist editions and alternate covers for our titles.
Virgin Variant
A variant cover that features only the artwork with no logos, titles, or issue numbers — giving the image a clean, poster-like look.
Artist Edition
A comic or collection that highlights the work of a specific artist, often with higher production values or exclusive art.
Limited Edition Physical Issue
A physical comic produced in smaller print runs with premium features (special paper, foil stamping, etc.). These are highly sought after by collectors and a big part of what we offer at 247 Comics.
Story & Production Terms
Panel
A single framed image on a comic page that contains part of the story.
Gutter
The white space between panels. The way panels and gutters are arranged helps control pacing and emotion.
Splash Page
A full-page illustration, often used for dramatic moments or introductions.
Bleed
Art that extends all the way to the edge of the page with no border.
Speech Bubble / Thought Bubble
Bubbles that contain dialogue or a character’s inner thoughts.
Caption / Narrative Box
Text boxes that provide narration, setting details, or time/place information.
Arc (Story Arc)
A multi-issue storyline with a beginning and end within a larger series.
Continuity
How events and characters connect across issues or series. Indie comics often have more flexible continuity than big shared universes.
Crossover
When characters or storylines from different series meet in one comic.
Community & Retail
LCS (Local Comic Shop)
Your neighborhood comic book store. We love and support LCS retailers and encourage fans to shop with them whenever possible.
Kickstarter
A crowdfunding platform many independent comics publishers (including us) use to fund new projects and offer exclusive rewards to backers.
Back Issue
Any comic issue that is no longer on the current release schedule.
Pull List
A list of upcoming comics your local shop sets aside for you each week or month.
Reading Order
The recommended sequence for reading a series so you don’t miss important story beats.
Why This Glossary Matters at 247 Comics
We didn’t just want to list terms — we wanted to help new readers feel confident exploring creator-owned or creator-led independent comics. Whether you’re hunting for stunning variant covers, diving into a bold sci-fi limited series like Evermind, or discovering the next action-fantasy epic like Bladesmyth, understanding these terms makes the experience more enjoyable.
Our mission is to make high-quality physical indie comics accessible and exciting for everyone.
Ready to Dive In?
Now that you know the lingo, explore our latest releases:
Have a term we missed or a question about one of our titles? Reply to our newsletter or reach out on social media — we love hearing from the community.
All who dare are welcome.