Fontella the Zine Machine

We’re excited to welcome Fontella the Zine Machine, now at Ballarat Library.

Fontella the Zine Machine, run by artists Siobhan Finn and Tegan Crosbie, is a vintage vending machine for zines, comics and stickers. In operation since 2023, it has recently found a new home at Ballarat Library.

This project aims to complement the existing Ballarat zine culture by providing a playful opportunity for creatives to share their ideas with the Ballarat community and build connections with fellow zinesters. A zine (pronounced “zeen”, like in “magazine”), is a DIY self-published publication, often hand-made and made for self-expression, not profit.

Zine makers are invited to apply to feature a title in the zine machine, much like participating in a curated group exhibition. Interviews with featured zinesters are featured on Fontella’s blog and social media. Additionally, the Fontella Team run makers mixers, workshops and participate in Zine Fairs accompanied by Fontella’s baby sister Dot, a tabletop zine vending machine.  

Follow their Instagram account @fontella_the_zine_machine to learn more about zines and keep updated on future callouts and events. The application process is exclusively digital, and notification of deadlines will be made via Fontella’s social media and blog. Library staff will not be responding to inquiries regarding submissions. 

Siobhan and Tegan look forward to sharing a range of wonderful zines with Ballarat Library visitors. Please note: Fontella is vintage and accepts $2 coins only. So start stockpiling your coins today! 

Fontella the Zine Machine can be found on Level 1 at Ballarat Library, near our meeting rooms and Young Adult book collection.