Smudge (comics)

In comics, the term "smudge" generally refers to an area of unwanted or unintended ink or color that has been unintentionally applied to the artwork. This can occur during the printing process, particularly with older or lower-quality printing techniques, or due to accidental handling of the original artwork itself.

A smudge might appear as a blurred or indistinct mark that obscures details or negatively affects the overall aesthetic appearance of the panel. Smudges are typically considered undesirable, and comic book collectors often factor the presence and severity of smudges into the overall grade and value of a comic. Professional restoration efforts may sometimes attempt to remove or minimize the appearance of smudges, depending on their impact and the value of the comic. The term can also sometimes informally describe the blurring effect of certain inking techniques used for shading or creating atmosphere, although this is not the primary or intended meaning.