How do Manhwa and Webtoon Artists make Backgrounds images?

Beginners often mistakenly believe that every background in webtoons or Korean comics is hand-drawn. The truth? Many South Korea webtoon artists use premade 3D models. They also use manga background images, stock photos, and digital assets. These tools help them create their detailed backgrounds quickly and efficiently!

I’ll explain how webtoon creators with some of the best manhwa art styles use these tools. These tools have a free download choice. I’ll also show which programs are best for making backgrounds, especially if you’re just starting out.

Premade 3D Models and Image Assets: A Time-Saving Solution

Many professional webtoon artists, including myself, use premade 3D models and photo assets for backgrounds. Why? Webtoon creators are often on tight weekly or monthly deadlines, and manually drawing complex environments can be time-consuming.

Programs like Clip Studio Paint and ibisPaint offer built-in filters. They also supply 3D models. These features make creating dynamic backgrounds much easier. In fact, many Korean manhwa artists use these assets, and it’s completely normal! You can use stock photos. You can create custom 3D models. You can also drop in ready-made assets. These tools can help you keep consistency in your comic’s style. They can also speed up production.

Popular Tools for Webtoon Backgrounds

Here’s a breakdown of some of the top tools for creating webtoon backgrounds:

• Clip Studio Paint 3D Assets: Clip Studio Paint has a massive library of 3D model backgrounds. You can easily drag and drop these into your scenes. Its perspective ruler feature also lets you align extra details to your backgrounds, ensuring everything follows the same perspective. I love using it because of its easy modification features. Their terms of service are very clear about using these assets for both personal and commercial webtoons. A lot of times they do have fun events on their site where you can earn free clippy tokens. 
• IbisPaint Anime Filters: If you’re working on mobile, ibisPaint offers great tools. It includes an anime background filter. This tool lets you turn real photos into comic-style backgrounds. This is perfect for those who want to use their own photos or stock images as a base for backgrounds. It’s also ideal for those who struggle to blend their main character into the background. Just apply an anime graphic style filter, tweak the colors, and voilà—you have a ready-made webtoon background. IbisPaint does have a free plan. There are many amazing features available as part of their plan bonuses within the paid version like cloud storage, premade manga backgrounds, custom brushes and much more.
• ACON3D for Webtoon-Specific Models:ACON3D is a go-to source for Korean manhwa artists, providing 3D models specifically designed for webtoons. These models can be imported into programs like SketchUp, where you can further customize them. If you’re looking for ready-made backgrounds that match the style of popular manhwa, ACON3D is a great place to start.
• SketchUp and Blender for Custom Backgrounds: For those willing to invest more time, programs like SketchUp and Blender allow you to create completely custom 3D environments. While these programs have a steeper learning curve, they provide full control over your backgrounds. SketchUp also integrates with Clip Studio Paint through .skp file formats, so you can design in one program and import into another.

Enhancing Your Backgrounds with Filters and Effects

Even with premade 3D models, there’s a lot you can do to blend the background seamlessly with your webtoon. I often use color balance and blur effects to help the background fit better with my art style. Combining a subtle gradient overlay can also add depth and make the background appear less “stiff.”

I’ve created a YouTube video where I show exactly how I use Clip Studio Paint to make backgrounds using these 3D models. You can watch it here: How I Make Webtoon Backgrounds.

Tips for Beginner Manhwa Artist

Creating webtoon backgrounds doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By using premade 3D models, stock photos, and a few clever filters, you can produce professional-looking backgrounds in no time. With the right tools and a little practice, you’ll have more time to focus on what matters most: telling your story!

If you’re new to creating webtoons, here are some tips to help you use 3D models effectively:

• Don’t feel guilty about using 3D models. Many professionals do it, and it doesn’t make your work any less creative. Think of it as a way to focus on the parts of the story and art that matter most to you.
• Start with simple programs. Tools like Clip Studio Paint are beginner-friendly but still have all the features you’ll need as you grow more comfortable with digital art.
• Mix 2D and 3D assets. Even if you use premade 3D backgrounds, you can add your own flair by painting over them or adding hand-drawn details.

Ready to Start Your Own Webtoon?

If you’re feeling inspired to create your own webtoon but don’t know where to start, check out my eBook, “How to Start a Webtoon.” In it, I go over everything from the hardware and tools you’ll need to a step-by-step breakdown of the process. You’ll also find tips on how to incorporate 3D backgrounds and other time-saving tricks.

If you’re into wholesome romance webtoon with a twist, check out my webtoon Catch Me! Fight Me! Love Me! — a fake marriage trope with an AMBW Mix Race Romance spin. It’s available now and perfect for readers who love a mix of drama and romance.