Describe the book before the artwork
A cover brief explains the book’s reader, genre, mood, exact text, and intended format. You do not need to solve the design yourself. Give the designer enough information to propose a relevant direction and enough boundaries to avoid an expensive misunderstanding.
1. Supply the exact cover text
Start with the final title, subtitle if any, and author name as they should appear. Include a series name or volume number when relevant. Check spelling and capitalization before the layout begins. A long subtitle can change the composition, so do not treat it as an optional detail to add at the end.
If the title is still being developed, say so in the brief and ask whether a later change will count as a revision or additional work.
2. Define the reader and genre
“A book for everyone” gives a designer little direction. Explain who is most likely to read it and why. A practical guide for first-time business owners, a quiet contemporary romance, and a picture book for preschoolers need different visual signals.
Write a short summary that describes the central subject or conflict. For fiction, mention the setting and emotional tone. For nonfiction, explain the reader’s problem and the book’s approach. Avoid promising that a cover alone will create sales.
3. Choose a visual direction without copying
Share a few reference covers and explain what you like: readable lettering, restrained colors, an illustrated style, or a particular mood. Also list elements to avoid. “I like the quiet atmosphere and strong title hierarchy” is more useful than “Make it exactly like this bestseller.”
References are a discussion tool, not permission to reuse another designer’s artwork. Identify any supplied images, fonts, illustrations, or logos and confirm that their intended use is authorized. Ask the designer to explain the licensing arrangements for assets they propose.
4. Separate a front cover from a print wrap
A front-cover design covers the front-facing artwork and text. A complete paperback wrap also includes a spine and back cover. Those additional panels need separate content and production details. Tell the designer which edition or editions you intend to produce before choosing a package.
If you need a print wrap, ask what information is required, such as final trim size, page count, paper choice, back-cover copy, and the current template from your printer or publishing platform. Confirm current production specifications with that provider; do not assume a front-cover image is a complete print-ready wrap.
Interior layout is another task. Our guide to eBook and paperback formatting explains why the inside of a book needs its own preparation.
5. Agree on deliverables and revisions
Ask how many initial concepts and revision rounds are included, what file formats and dimensions will be delivered, and whether editable source files or promotional mockups are part of the package. Confirm the timeline after the brief and required assets are ready.
When reviewing a concept, combine your feedback into a clear list. Explain the problem instead of prescribing every adjustment: “The subtitle is difficult to read at a small size” is easier to evaluate than several unrelated font-change requests. Ask how a major change in direction is priced.
A cover brief you can copy
- Exact text: Title, subtitle, author, and series details.
- Book: Genre, short summary, reader, and emotional tone.
- Edition: Front cover only or complete print wrap; intended publishing format.
- Direction: Reference covers, what you like about them, preferred colors, and elements to avoid.
- Assets: Authorized images, logos, illustrations, and relevant licensing information.
- Delivery: Required files, deadline, concepts, revision rounds, and budget.
What does RDP’s $19 cover offer include?
Royal Digital Publishing’s introductory offer is $19 USD for front cover design only, with one concept and one revision. Supply your title, author name, and design brief. Spine, back cover, interior formatting, and publishing assistance are quoted separately. The featured offer artwork is an illustrative design; confirm any additional deliverables before ordering.
This can provide a defined starting point when you need a front cover. If your project needs a print wrap, custom illustration, or additional versions, describe those needs first so the scope and quote can be agreed.
Review before you approve
Check every word, inspect the cover at a small size, and compare the mood with the book’s actual content. Confirm the agreed files and permissions. If print production is part of a separately scoped project, follow your printer’s proof process before authorizing a print run.