Riso Printed Zines
A Guide to Super Good Zines and Riso Printing
There’s something super good about zines — the little imperfections and the tangible energy and passion each artist puts into their creation. When you print a zine with a Riso Duplicator, that super goodness only multiplies.
ZINE+RISO=DOUBLE THE SUPER GOODNESS!
Riso printing, short for Risograph printing, combines the best of digital convenience with the tactile beauty of traditional printmaking. It’s a process that embraces imperfection — every print comes out a little different, with rich textures, bold colors, and subtle misalignments that make each page feel alive.
At Stumpt Workshop, we love using Riso for zines because it brings character to every project. Whether you’re printing a comic, art series, or collaborative publication, Riso offers a unique, low-cost way to produce vibrant, small-batch works that stand out from anything printed on a standard digital press.
Why Riso Is Perfect for Zine Printing
Distinctive Color and Texture: Riso uses soy-based inks layered through stencils, producing soft tones and unexpected overlaps — similar to screen printing.
Eco-Friendly and Efficient: Riso printers use plant-based inks and minimal energy, making them a favorite for sustainable studios.
Affordable for Small Runs: Ideal for short-run zines — whether you’re making 20 copies or 200.
Beautiful Imperfection: Every copy varies slightly. Those quirks are part of the charm. WE LOVE CHARM!!
Tips for Designing Your Riso Zine
Think in Layers: Each color in your design requires its own pass through the printer. Overlapping layers create surprising hues.
Choose the Right Paper: Uncoated, textured paper helps Riso ink sit beautifully without smudging.
Plan for Variation: Embrace Riso’s unpredictable side — it’s what makes each piece special.
Featured Zine: Barfy Zine
One of our favorite examples of Riso’s creative potential is our Barfy Zine — a one-of-a-kind collaboration with Toys on Tap and Bootleg Toy Co.
Each Barfy Zine (5.5” x 8.5”) is made entirely from test prints of the original Barfy Print project. That means no two copies are alike — every zine captures the unpredictable layers, ink textures, and experimental spirit that define Riso printing.
Limited availability: once they’re gone, they’re gone. Grab your Barfy Zine here →
Make Your Own Riso Zine
Inspired to make your own? Whether you’re collaging, illustrating, or curating words and images, Riso printing invites you to share boldly.
If you’re new to Riso, browse more Riso-printed zines in the Stumpt Store. Each one tells a story of color, collaboration, and creativity — proof that small-scale publishing is alive and thriving.