Are you considering self-publishing your novel and curious to learn more about the art of book cover design?

If yes, then tune in to episode 20 of The Write It Scared Podcast!

Listen on Apple, Spotify, or your preferred platform.

I know this isn’t exactly a craft topic, but I was incredibly curious about this side of the publishing industry and had the opportunity to sit down with Katia Balabaieva from Miblart, a professional book cover design company. Miblart specializes in creating marketable covers for indie authors and publishers, and their mission is to turn book covers into an author's prime marketing tool.

I’ve grown to know Katia through her social media and have always been impressed by the value and education she provides to her audience, and I can say the same of Miblart. Their website, blog, and newsletter have a host of incredible resources to help authors think about how to approach target research, marketing strategies and more. And nope, I’m not an affiliate, just a fan.

We talk about the importance of having a finalized manuscript before commissioning a cover, the types of book covers available, pros and cons of each, when you should start thinking about your cover design and so much more!

Katia also shares insider tips on how to effectively collaborate with designers, manage costs, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

No matter where you are in your writing journey, this episode has valuable insights to help you create a compelling cover that reflects your story and captures readers' attention.

Here are some of the major takeaways from our discussion:

Before commissioning someone for book cover design, it is crucial to ensure that you understand your book's conflict, characters, and world because it allows you to clearly communicate the book's essence to your designer.
Search for a book cover designer as early as possible. For stock image covers, start at least three to six months before your book release. For illustrated covers, a lead time of six months to a year is advisable.
Types of Book Covers and Pos/Cons:

DIY Covers: Ideal for those with graphic design skills. While it can be fun and educational, the cover must still resonate with readers.
Premade Covers: These are more affordable and quick but may lack the personalization that a custom cover offers.
Custom Covers: Working with a designer ensures a tailored, marketable cover. While more expensive, it's a worthwhile investment to get exactly what you want, though it will take longer to create.

The cost of premade covers typically range up from $50 to $300, while the price of custom covers can vary depending on the project. A custom cover from a popular designer will often exceed $1,000.
Proper budgeting and research are crucial to avoid overspending in the early stages and neglecting other essential aspects like marketing.
Do your homework to understand the market standards and train your eye to recognize genre-specific elements.
When collaborating with designers, provide references and clear feedback to help them create a cover that accurately represents your book.
For series, consistency is key. The first cover sets the direction for the series, so any significant changes later can be costly. Make sure your designer is aware that you are writing a series.
One major pitfall is a cover that doesn't accurately reflect the book's content, confusing readers and leading to disappointment.
Always ensure clear, detailed feedback and establish milestones for the project when you begin with a designer.
Remember: while a striking cover is crucial for grabbing attention it's not the only factor in a book's success. Quality content, effective marketing, and positive reviews are equally important.
A well-designed cover should attract readers but remember, it’s the book’s content that keeps them hooked.
By planning ahead, understanding market standards, collaborating effectively with designers, and budgeting wisely, you can ensure your book cover sets the right tone and attracts your target audience.