The Secret to Good Book Cover Design: Do’s and Don’ts for Success
Are you in the process of publishing a book? If so, you’ve undoubtedly put some thought into what your cover will look like. Even if you are publishing electronically, you’ll still need an interesting and engaging cover design to bring in readers and make your title stand out among the many others available.
So, how do you design a great cover? Good book cover design starts with partnering with the right company. A professional can help you choose elements that look great together and avoid common mistakes in the world of self-publishing. However, it’s still important to know the basics of good cover design, so that you can contribute to your cover’s finished look.
Here are a few do’s and don’ts for creating the perfect cover:
Do: Include Important Information
When your readers pick up your book or see it online, they want to know what it’s about from the first glance. No, you don’t have to give away the secrets of your pot, but your reader should be able to know a few key elements just from glancing at your cover. Good covers include:
The title
The author’s name
Either an image, subheading, promotional blurb, or quote that will grip the reader’s attention – or some combination of these
You can have a great cover with more than just those bare bones elements, but those are the necessities to get people interested in what you have to share.
Don’t: Include Too Much Information
While it may be tempting to add every word of praise or intriguing quote you have to share about your book, the cover is not the place to do it. The more information you share, the smaller the words will have to be - and the harder they will be to read. When you want to make your cover aesthetically pleasing yet informative, keep information to a minimum. There are always the inside pages for sharing more, if the need arises!
Do: Use Imagery to Your Advantage
Good book cover design starts with great imagery. This means something different for every author and every book. What works for one cover won’t work for another.
Some authors use blank space and simple colors to make a grand statement on their covers. Others choose bod, simple imagery. Still others might opt for patterns. What you choose should be based on your book’s content and the message you’re trying to spread.
Don’t: Kill Your Cover with Imagery
Again, there is a fine line between great use of imagery on a book cover and way too much. Unreadable words are a no-no, so choose images that don’t distract from your text. Finding balance will make for a better-looking cover and a reader that’s more likely to pick it up.
Still need help creating your cover? That’s okay! At Original Book Cover Designs, our expert staff helps many writers just like you take your ideas and make them into great covers. Let us help you through the process of creating a cover you’ll love – and that your readers can’t help but notice! Contact us today to find out more.
