OUR PROCESS
CUSTOM BOOK COVERS
Last updated 03/09/2024
Step 1: PICK YOUR DATE
You took a look and decided that we're a great fit for each other! So exciting. You're probably here for some guidance on what to expect. Let's dive right in.
We've worked on a date that works for both of us and have discussed any deadlines. To secure your spot, we require a 30% non-refundable deposit.
Please, take a look at our Terms and Conditions as it has very important information about our business and how we operate.
Once we've received your deposit, your appointment is confirmed and now we wait until it's time!
Step 2: FILL OUT FORM
We will email you a link to this page and a form to fill out with your book's information and preferences. Make sure to fill out this form by your booked date because that's when we are going to start working on your design.
Don't fret if you're not sure about something, especially if you don't have the final page count or aren't sure about the paperback specs. Just type NA and we will get in touch if any info is needed to get started. You can also email me at gisel@neptunebookdesigns.com
Step 3: FIRST PROOF
Fun begins! I will start drafting our first concept with the instructions given in the form.
The first proof will be an UNFINISHED ebook version and its purpose is to ensure we're heading in the right direction.
Typography, layout, elements, coloring, etc.
Please, don't hold back and let us know what to change, add, remove, or tweak, give us references and any other type of guidance. We want it perfect for you!
Please, let us know if this concept is far from what you're picturing and if the artwork direction is not the desired one. This stage is when we can make all big and major changes before further design work is done.
Once we've received feedback, we'll get to work again!
Step 5: SECOND PROOF
Once necessary tweaks are made, we'll send a second proof. This one will be a lot more polished.
And again, feel free to keep sharing your thoughts but keep in mind that major changes past this point will incur an extra concept fee. So, keep sharing your thoughts and any additional info that might work for the design if something is missing.
Otherwise, we should be getting closer to the right design!
Step 6: FINISHING UP
We'll tweak and polish it until you say "IT'S PERFECT!" and both of us will probably be VERY excited, but it's time to move on to the full wrap.
I'll start designing the spine and back cover with the provided paperback specs (or placeholder in case we don't have that info yet) and send you more proofs for approval.
Step 7: PAPERBACK APROVAL
Once we're happy, it's time for your final approval!
With your final approval, the design process will be finished. If we were working with a placeholder for the paperback, we will wait for the final specs whenever you have them (no rush!).
I will move on to making renders, graphics, and any extras needed and previously discussed.
If you want to add anything else, like teasers, promo videos, banners, etc. I'm more than happy to add these to your order and I can start right away!
This is subject to availability but 95% of the time, I can accommodate all requests!
Step 8: FINAL PAYMENT
While we export all the final files, we will send an invoice for the remaining balance. Once we receive payment, we will send you all the final files!
We're almost done!
Note: If you need the book cover before we're done with the graphics, we can do that! Just let us know so we send the invoice sooner.
Or if you need the ebook and graphics to promote the book, but we don't have the final paperback specs, we can wait until you send us the final specs. We will invoice you, release all final files, and mark the paperback as pending until you're good to go!
Keep in mind we will not release any final files until the final invoice is fully paid.
Also, triple-check check the final page count, trim size, and all paperback specs provided are correct before sending that info over. We do charge a small fee for paperback resizing if the dimensions change as we have to redo all printing files.
Step 9: FINAL FILES
Once everything is ready to go, I'll share a Google Drive folder link to all final files compressed in a ZIP folder. This might be different depending on the package purchased, but it will typically include:
1. Ebook(s) JPGs
2. Paperback(s) PDFs and JPGs
3. Book Title's PNG
4. Author name's PNG
5. 3D render PNGs
6. Cover Reveal Graphic JPGs
IMPORTANT: Please, make sure to download all of these as soon as possible as these won't be available forever.
You will for sure have these files available to download for 120 days.
If for any reason you can't download these, we can email you the files.
We are here for any questions or concerns, so feel free to get in touch if you have any issues!
Step 10: DONE!
We should be all done! If you added any extras to your order we will finalize those but your pretty book cover is all done and ready to shine!
We cannot wait to see it everywhere! Make sure to tag us whenever you post it on social media, we would love to give you some support and love!
Instagram: @neptunedesignsl
Facebook: Neptune Designs
