The time has finally come: you can now pre-order the first issue and a 1 year subscription of Squid & Ink, due to be published early 2007. The first issue contains comics from over 25 authors, as well as articles and features, all in full colour on glossy paper.

Those who subscribe will also get access to PDF versions of back issues, so even if you lose the print issue, you'll be able to download a digital copy from the website.

As an added incentive, the first 1000 people to pre-order a 1 year subscription will also receive Squid & Ink merchandise, while supplies last. That means the first 5 subscribers will receive stuffed squid — hand-made by the Squid & Ink editors. The first 10 subscribers will receive squid t-shirts. The first 50 subscribers will receive 8.5 x 11" posters of the issue 1 cover. The first 100 will receive copies of the first issue signed by the Squid & Ink editors. The first 200 will receive postcards from Duncan the squid. And the first 1000 subscribers will receive stickers. So if you're one of the first 5 subscribers, you'll get everything.

We also have merchandise for sale. So far it's only a stuffed Duncan squid, but we'll soon have other stuffed squid, as well as t-shirts, stickers, posters, and postcards. Here are some of the squid we've been working on that are, or will soon be, available.

If you'd like to see products that we don't have, or plan to have, available please send your suggestions to letters@squidandink.com.

We had planned to publish the premiere issue in time for Christmas, but a few weeks ago I had not one but two catastrophic computer failures. Fortunately, I had backed up Squid & Ink data, but it did delay progress on the first issue.

Don't interpret this as an excuse, however. Like the deadbeat dad archetype I referred to in a previous blog entry, the first issue might be late for Christmas, but we're making up for it by giving you more gifts to go with it.

I just hope the release doesn't get delayed any further so I don't have to buy you all ponies.

Check this space in the future for announcements about the Squid & Ink magazine release party.