Simple Animation: Making a Flick Book
By Paula Briggs
This resource is part of the #BeACreativeProducer series of resources.
One of the simplest ways to make an animation is to make a flick book, and then film it on your phone.
In the video below, Alex, member of the #BeACreativeProducer team, shares how to make a flick book. Thanks to #BeACreativeProducer’s Rowan, Immy and Amelia for the artwork, and Alex for the music. Thanks to Lluis for leading the flick book workshop at Cambridge Junction.
Flick Book Animation Tips!
- Use Flash Cards (or Index Cards) to make your flick book. You can secure the pages with an elastic band or a bulldog clip.
- Start with the last drawing in your sequence. You might like to make 4 or 5 cards with the same image on, as when you flick the pages it takes the eye 4 or 5 pages to register the first image.
- Lay a blank card over the last drawing, and vary your drawing very slightly. You might want to hold your cards up against a window or lightbox to help you see your last drawing.
- Aim for 20 or more drawings. The more the better! But keep your storyline simple.
- When you flick your book, including extra blank cards at the end will help you flick the book.
- Ask a friend for help in filming your animation on a phone camera, or use a small tripod.
