Choosing Your Design Partner for Self-Publishing
Fantastic! If you’re looking to craft a book that’s a visual masterpiece, you’ll want to draw inspiration from the best in the business. Here are ten top-notch design agencies, graphic design companies, and iconic designers specialising in book design. Let’s delve into the unique selling points, pros, and cons of each of these agencies and designers:
Dexigner’s Book Design Companies
https://www.dexigner.com/directory/cat/Book-Design/Companies
- USP: A comprehensive directory of book design companies.
- Pros: Wide range of companies listed, diverse styles, and easy navigation.
- Cons: Overwhelming choices, no direct reviews on the platform.
It’s Nice That: Five Designers and Studios
https://www.itsnicethat.com/articles/five-book-covers-graphic-design-170822
- USP: Showcases five designers and studios creating beautiful book covers.
- Pros: Curated list, high-quality designs, and in-depth articles on design processes.
- Cons: Limited number of designers, focuses mainly on covers.
Reedsy: 100+ Designers For Hire
https://reedsy.com/design/book-designer
- USP: Lists over 100 book designers available for hire in 2023.
- Pros: Extensive list, direct links to portfolios, and vetted professionals.
- Cons: Requires account signup, potentially higher costs.
Book Publicist: 50 Book Cover Designers
https://book-publicist.com/50-book-cover-designers-to-create-your-best-selling-cover/
- USP: A list of 50 book cover designers to create your best-selling cover.
- Pros: Extensive list, variety of styles, and potential for high-quality results.
- Cons: No direct links to designers’ portfolios, focuses only on covers.
Mayfly Design
https://mayflydesign.com/
- USP: A book design and formatting agency.
- Pros: Comprehensive design services, professional team, and tailored solutions.
- Cons: Limited to their in-house style, potentially higher costs.
The Book Designers
https://bookdesigners.com/
- USP: Specialises in book design from cover to cover.
- Pros: Full-service design, experienced team, and custom solutions.
- Cons: Limited to their in-house style, potentially higher costs.
Kindlepreneur: Best Book Cover Software, Designers and Services
https://kindlepreneur.com/book-cover-software-designers-services/
- USP: Offers a list of best book cover software, designers, and services.
- Pros: Comprehensive resources, reviews on software, and diverse designer options.
- Cons: Overwhelming choices, not exclusively focused on design services.
99designs: Book Design Services & Solutions
https://99designs.com/book-design-services
- USP: Provides book design services and solutions.
- Pros: Competitive design process, multiple design options, and tailored solutions.
- Cons: Quality varies, design contests can be hit or miss.
BookBaby: Professional Book Design Services
https://www.bookbaby.com/book-design
- USP: Offers professional book design services.
- Pros: Full-service design, print and distribution services available, and experienced team.
- Cons: Package-based pricing, limited customisation options.
Each of these platforms and designers brings something unique to the table. Depending on the specific needs and preferences, one might be a better fit than the others. It’s always a good idea to research and reach out to multiple options before making a final decision. ?✨
FAQs
Q: What if I want to self-publish my book?
A: Self-publishers are welcomed by most of these agencies. They understand the unique requirements and challenges that come with self-publishing a book and provide all necessary support. Many agencies also offer services like ebook conversion and print-on-demand, which are often essential for self-publishers. Once your design is complete, you’ll need to upload the files to Ex Why Zed using WeTransfer.com (it’s super easy, you don’t need an account and it is free). In the comments box, do remind us of the print spec you are going for, the number of copies and the best address for us to deliver to. We will then give your artwork a free preflight check to highlight any potential issues and will email any recommendations before going to production. If you need us to chat to your designer at any stage of the process then do feel free to pass on our contact details: hello@exwhyzed.com or 01206 766647.
Q: What does it mean to design a book for print?
A: Designing a book for print is the process of creative and technical tasks such as cover design, layout, typography, font selection and print management. It’s about making a book visually appealing and conveying the right message to attract the target audience. It’s integral to the publishing process as it ensures the final product, whether it’s a paperback, hardcover or ebook, is stunning and engages readers.
Q: Why do I need a design agency to create my book’s cover?
A: A design agency has a team of experienced freelancers and graphic designers who focus specifically on book cover design. They have mastered the art of creating timeless and creative covers that promote the essence of your book and appeal to readers. They understand how to use creative and innovative imagery to catch a viewer’s attention.
Q: Can these agencies also help with the layout of my book?
A: Yes, many of these agencies offer a range of services including layout design. They ensure the interior layout is visually attractive and reader friendly in both digital and print formats. This can also include the selection of relevant fonts, copyright and ISBN placement, and number of pages determination.
Q: Is it essential to create an innovative cover design?
A: Definitely! An innovative cover design can significantly influence a reader’s decision to select your book. It is what your readers will see first and it needs to convey the feel and content of your book. A creative and bold cover design can enhance your book’s appeal and promote its success.
Q: How long does it usually take to design a book for print?
A: The timeline can vary greatly depending on the extent of the services you require, the agency’s workflow, and your own responsiveness. However, many agencies aim to deliver the book design in a timely manner without compromising on the creativity and quality of the design.
Q: Can these agencies provide designs for academic books?
A: Absolutely! These agencies tailor their services to meet the needs of all types of authors, including those who write academic books. They can produce designs suitable for such publications, ensuring that the design is relevant and effective for the target audience.
Q: Will the agencies help me to promote my book?
A: While the primary role of these agencies is to create compelling book design and layout, many also offer promotional services. This could include creating promotional material like promotional imagery, book’s features, newsletters, etc. You can contact them directly to learn more about their promotional services.
Q: How do I begin working with a book design agency?
A: You can initiate the process by reaching out to the agency via their “contact us” feature. After learning more about your book and your specific needs, they will tailor a contract and a unique approach for your project. Communication is usually seamless, ranging from traditional email communication to inbox messaging on various devices.
Q: Can I update my choices even after the book design process has started?
A: Most design agencies are flexible and will allow you to update your choices throughout the process. However, it’s essential to communicate effectively and in a timely manner to ensure that changes can be made seamlessly, and the final product meets your satisfaction.