what's your genre?

An email inquiry from an author

I received an email inquiry from an author for my book cover design service. Jeff’s book had originally been published by CreateSpace. “The covers were made a while ago when it was common for authors to use CreateSpace’s Covercreator,” he explained.“These covers need an update. So, I’m contacting designers who might be the best fit for this…

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Goodbye old portfolios

I said goodbye to our old portfolios this week. My partner, Gary, and I were cleaning out the office closet. There were four portfolios filled with past printed samples. We had used them to show potential clients our work, hopefully, to win a client over, and to sell our creative services.  The portfolios were filled…

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Publishing a children’s book and using a book designer

Why you need a book designer for your children’s book Publishing a children’s book? Use a book designer to make it visually appealing and easy to read before the artwork begins.   Case study: Channon, a first-time author, hired an illustrator who had little knowledge of book design. How did I know?  1) The artist/illustrator (?) did not leave adequate space for the story…

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A designer’s dream project

Working with artist Susan Zimmerman was a designer’s dream project. I was referred to Susan by printer Tim Malott of HF Group.  Susan is a ceramicist and photographer. I met with her to discuss her book, The Light in the Kiva and wrote an estimate for book design. I have always wanted to design an art book! “The Light in…

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extra steps in book design

Extra steps in book design

Many first-time authors have never published a book before, and they are unaware of the extra steps involved in the process. My primary focus is book design, but taking extra steps such as guidance and suggestions, will help authors reach their goal.  Extra steps for “Anne,” a first-time author  •  Was Anne going to do an ebook or print book? She intended to…

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Privacy policy and email

As a graphic designer, I subscribe to a lot of stock illustration and photo websites and I trust them to keep my contact and other information safe. But, sometimes, despite your best efforts and the faith you put into online service providers, you get a surprise. For example, this week, I got an email from…

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