Web comics have changed the game for indie creators. They give artists and writers a way to share their stories without waiting for a publisher’s approval. And sometimes, when a series builds enough buzz, that passion project ends up in print.
Plenty of web comics have found success online—but a select few have crossed into bookstores, comic shops, and libraries around the world. These aren’t just popular web series. They’re proof that digital-first storytelling can lead to something bigger.
For fans, it’s exciting to see favorite comics on physical pages. For creators, it’s a reminder that an online following can lead to real-world results.
From Online Panels to Print Pages
Here’s what this post covers:
- Web comics that found success and became print editions
- What made these stories stand out to publishers and readers
- How fan support helped turn clicks into copies
- A look at the different types of web comics that made the leap
- Why these titles matter for indie comics and future creators
If you’ve ever thought about starting a web comic—or just want to support the ones you love—this list shows what’s possible when great storytelling meets community passion.
Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe
Originally published on Webtoon, Lore Olympus reimagines the story of Hades and Persephone with a mix of mythology, drama, and modern-day visuals. Its bold color palette, emotional storytelling, and stylish characters quickly attracted millions of readers.
What started as a scrolling digital comic is now a bestselling graphic novel series published by Del Rey. With multiple volumes in print, it’s become a must-have for fans of romance, mythology, and web comics in general.
The success of Lore Olympus helped open doors for more Webtoon creators to land print deals. It also showed that stories rooted in myth can still feel fresh and current.
Nimona by ND Stevenson
Nimona began as a Tumblr comic back in 2012. It followed a shapeshifting girl and her villainous mentor as they explored science, magic, and the gray areas between good and evil.
The comic’s smart writing, playful tone, and evolving style caught the attention of HarperCollins, who published it as a full-length graphic novel in 2015. It later went on to win awards and even became an animated film on Netflix.
ND Stevenson’s success with Nimona helped show publishers that web comics can become polished, professional books—and that new voices can bring fresh energy to the shelves.
Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu
Hockey, baking, and a lot of heart—that’s what made Check, Please! so special. Created by Ngozi Ukazu, the comic followed Eric “Bitty” Bittle, a former figure skater navigating life on a college hockey team.
It started as a web comic but quickly built a passionate fan base, especially in LGBTQ+ and sports fandom spaces. The print edition was picked up by First Second Books and released in two hardcover volumes.
What made Check, Please! stand out was its mix of slice-of-life storytelling, inclusive characters, and genuine charm. It became one of the most successfully Kickstarted comics of its time.
Heartstopper by Alice Oseman
Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper began as a quiet, sweet love story between two British schoolboys, Nick and Charlie. It quickly became one of the most beloved LGBTQ+ romance comics online.
Published first as a web comic on Tumblr and Tapas, it was later released in print by Hachette Children’s Group. Since then, it’s sold worldwide, translated into multiple languages, and adapted into a live-action Netflix series.
Fans were drawn to its honest look at identity, friendship, and love—all told through gentle pacing and expressive art. The print editions now sit alongside the best in young adult graphic fiction.
The Tea Dragon Society by Kay O’Neill
Wholesome, magical, and filled with soft colors and softer creatures, The Tea Dragon Society started as a web comic and quickly won over readers with its charm.
It follows a young girl who learns about caring for tea dragons—tiny creatures that grow leaves infused with memories. The comic’s warm tone and inclusive worldbuilding made it a favorite among readers of all ages.
The print version was published by Oni Press and went on to win multiple awards, including Eisners. It’s now part of a series, with The Tea Dragon Festival and The Tea Dragon Tapestry expanding the world even further.
Sarah’s Scribbles by Sarah Andersen
Sometimes short comics make a big impact. Sarah’s Scribbles is a web comic made up of relatable, funny, and often absurd slices of life—dealing with everything from social anxiety to laundry day.
Sarah Andersen’s expressive art and sharp humor helped the series build a massive following online. It later transitioned to print with several collections, including Adulthood is a Myth and Big Mushy Happy Lump.
The success of Sarah’s Scribbles proves that even gag comics and daily strips can find a home on bookshelves—especially when they strike a universal chord.
Stand Still, Stay Silent by Minna Sundberg
This post-apocalyptic fantasy takes place in a Scandinavian world years after a mysterious plague. With beautiful art, immersive lore, and a slow-burning story, Stand Still, Stay Silent built a steady readership through its official site.
The comic’s detailed world map, rich languages, and folklore-inspired visuals gave it a unique flavor. It was eventually collected into hardcover volumes and published by Hiveworks and other small presses.
This one’s a great example of how a niche web comic—rooted in culture and mythology—can still reach a wide audience when done with care and style.
What These Comics Have in Common
Even though each of these titles is different in tone, genre, and format, they all share a few things:
- A strong, personal creative voice
- A loyal online audience that championed the work
- Stories that feel genuine, not just marketable
- Art styles that connect emotionally with readers
They didn’t become popular overnight. Most creators spent years updating their comics regularly, building trust with their audience. That steady connection made publishers take notice—and helped fans support them in print.
Why This Still Matters
For creators, web comics are more than just a side project. They’re a way to tell stories on their own terms. And for readers, they’re a chance to support something from the ground up.
Seeing web comics in print isn’t just a win for one artist—it’s a win for the whole community. It shows that different voices, different styles, and different stories all have a place on the shelf.
So whether you’re creating your own comic or just love reading them, these success stories are proof that what starts online can grow into something even bigger.