Dstlry Creators Express Concern Over Publisher's Pause

Dstlry responds, promising to regroup and get books to readers soon

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Creators of comics published by boutique publisher Dstlry have expressed concerns over the company's recent decision to pause its entire publishing slate. Many creators learned of the pause through media reports rather than direct communication from Dstlry, leading to a breakdown in communication. Issues with late payments, shifting distribution, and investor questions have plagued Dstlry since 2024, and some creators doubt their projects will ever see the light of day, while others continue to put faith in the company's founders.

Why it matters

The Dstlry situation highlights the challenges facing creator-owned comics publishers, where breakdowns in communication and financial issues can jeopardize the livelihoods of creators who have entrusted their work to the publisher. The pause in publishing raises questions about the long-term viability of Dstlry and the fate of the many high-profile comics projects it had in the works.

The details

Dstlry, a creator-owned American boutique comic book publisher founded in 2023, had solicited a slate of titles from high-profile creators, including Gone by Jock, Somna by Becky Cloonan and Tula Lotay, and The City Beneath Her Feet by James Tynion IV and Elsa Charretier. However, the company has faced issues with late payments to creators, a breakdown in its relationship with distributor Lunar Distribution, and questions from investors. This has led to Dstlry's decision to pause its entire publishing line, which many creators learned about through media reports rather than direct communication from the company.

  • In 2022, Dstlry founders David Steinberger and Chip Mosher held meetings with comics talent at Thought Bubble in Harrogate, laying the groundwork for the publisher's launch.
  • In late 2024, Dstlry quit Lunar Distribution to go exclusive with Diamond Comic Distributors, two months before Diamond declared bankruptcy.
  • Around a year ago, a number of Dstlry creators stopped receiving payments for their work.

The players

Dstlry

A creator-owned American boutique comic book publisher founded in 2023 that aimed to redefine creator-owned comics by blending high-quality physical editions with digital collectables.

Chip Mosher

Co-founder of Dstlry and one of the company's leaders.

David Steinberger

Co-founder of Dstlry and one of the company's leaders.

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What they’re saying

“We know DSTLRY fans and creators are frustrated, and so are we. This pause gives us the space to regroup, and we're focused on getting these books into readers' hands as soon as possible.”

— Chip Mosher and David Steinberger, Co-founders, Dstlry (Bleeding Cool)

“You've seen the announcement from DSTLRY, that's why White House Robot Romance #3's release date hasn't been announced. I wish them all the best because they've had a lot of rough luck last year.”

— Rachael Stott (BlueSky)

“Barry Windsor Smith's art always makes me happy – finding this was a much needed lift after a bloody awful week.”

— Marc Laming (Twitter)

“A MISCHIEF OF MAGPIES is: The most beautiful thing we've ever made. Three issues long. 97% complete. Delayed. We're as bummed by that last point as anyone.”

— Si Spurrier (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.