How to Hire a Book Designer

A book designer is someone who creates the cover of books. This person may supply a graphic or may put together the entire cover. Book designers typically have great artistic ability and can imagine a cover to show the feel of a book. Before you hire a book designer, read below to make sure you're spending your money on the right one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Ask around for suggestions. Writers' groups are a good place to ask. Check with local networking agencies, such as the Chamber of Commerce, if you want local designers. If you cannot find any suggestions by word of mouth, ask the designers you consider for references of past work.
2. See samples. Do not hire a designer without seeing samples of his work. While you do not have to see samples of the person's work on a book, you should have an idea of what to expect in terms of artistic ability.
3. Get quotes from several people. Ask no fewer than three people for quotes, especially if you think the first quote you receive is really high. Get an idea of how much you would expect to pay on average for your project.
4. Talk up your project. You need to get an idea of how the person sees your project. Perhaps you have a serious topic but the designer you are considering would take a more cartoon-like approach to your work. You need to know that before you hire her.
5. Take your time. Consider the proposals you get for as long as you want before making a decision.
6. Decline in writing. Let the designers you did not choose know that you picked someone else. Do not leave them unsure of the project's status.
7. Get a contract. Make sure to obtain a contract spelling out what you want, when, and the price.