What do I use?
Here are the tools and gear I use myself, why I use them, and where to get them.
Some links are associate links. This means if you buy after clicking the link, the author gets a bigger % of the sale.
Writing and Publishing
1. MS Word & Excel -notes, outlines, and writing
(google docs and sheets would work fine too)
These two are my work horses. I outline and take notes in my spreadsheets (including pictures), then write in word.
Are there better options out there for other people? Definitely. For me, thanks to a lifetime in corporate USA, probably not.
Honorable mention to Scrivener for organization.
2. ProWriting Aid -quality checker
I use this software primarily to check for grammar, consistency, repetition, and a variety of other options. Highly recommend, though it's usefulness is limited when you start speaking in goblin.
3. Vellum - final formatting
It's mac only, but it has the perfect balance between being so basic I can't do anything I want, and so complex that the learning curve isn't worth it. It took less than an hour to 100% format a novel the first time I used it, learning curve included.
4. Canva - social media and fast formatting
If it's quick and dirty for social media posts, or just minor tweaks, Canva is a good option with low cost. Just watch close for AI images.
5. A good artist! (In my case: Cristina Tănase)
Great art is worth it! Hire an artist to do the covers, maps, and paid ads. (I send my artist the templates from the sites I publish on to make sure the details and ratios are perfect).
6. Inkarnate - rough maps
Making maps is hard, so I get mine part of the way there for my artist first. I use this software for getting the positions right and to give my artist a rough idea of the terrain, rivers, and other topography will look. Then she turns it into something visually unforgettable.
In Person Events
Tent
A 10x10 canopy that breathes and can easily be set up by one person is critical. Look for one with a vent on top, wheels on the storage bag, and a locking mechanism in the center (instead of on each individual leg). Note: I rarely use the side flaps, but I don't have many events with bad weather.
Tables
I've tried several, but for now 4'x2' fold up is my favorite. Many options out there, but so far I like these as they leave a lot of space underneath. (I rarely use the shorter height)
Table Cloths
Say it with me. Spandex. No ironing. Fits like a champ quickly. My only caution is get one's that have an overlapping slit instead of perfect fit, as using the area under the table for storage is huge.
Book Stands
Great art is worth it! Hire an artist to do the covers, maps, and paid ads. (I send my artist the templates from the sites I publish on to make sure the details and ratios are perfect).
Fatigue Mat
Great art is worth it! Hire an artist to do the covers, maps, and paid ads. (I send my artist the templates from the sites I publish on to make sure the details and ratios are perfect).
Pop up Stool
I'm still waiting for this thing to collapse under me, but there's something to be said for how portable this is. Besides, it looks like an alien ship. (Note: for longer events, I'd still advise something with padding and back support)
Banker Boxes
Warning: These are NOT WATERPROOF. Be mindful of your local weather (and get a tarp).
Standardizing your bin sizes is a lifesaver for hauling. Try to match the wagon you choose to use.
Dolly Wagon
Little beach wagons can work, especially early on. Many people go low on the budget for their solution here. But after having a budget dolly-wagon break and drop everything in the rain, this is an area I went big. Currently testing the Rock-n-Roller multi-cart and while there are several issues, it's hauling capability is top notch. Now if only it folded up better.
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Fold up Bookshelf
Not always needed, but these are great when booth sharing or once you have several series to display.
Grid Wall
Artwork gets more attention at my booths than anything else. While I'm still perfecting the best method to display it all, these little panels make it far easier to take advantage of vertical space. Best of all, it's a highly flexible solution. Note: consider getting reusable zip ties for stability, and allow some extra time for construction.
Dice Tower
This little gem was designed by Creations by Kira, 3d printed by Fishbowl Studio Prints, and painted by Commander Kobold Gaming; all small businesses like myself.
(Special thanks to Mystic-Con for gifting it to me after being part of a panel on world building)