How to Make an Album Cover
- 1). Brainstorm ideas based on the album title, lyrics and sound. For example, John Lennon's "Plastic Ono Band" was a laid-back confessional record and featured Lennon on the cover sitting by a tree, a calming picture. If your album is titled "Songs about Food," it would make sense to feature food items on the cover.
- 2). Contact a printing company and ask them what size the cover design needs to be in order to be properly manufactured. For example, the standard size for a CD album cover is 4.75 inches by 4.75 inches. A vinyl LP cover is 12 inches by 12 inches.
- 3). Open a graphic design program, like Corel Draw or Adobe Photoshop. Use a simple paint program if you don't have a professional graphic design program.
- 4). Set a template size for your album cover depending on the format you are working with, most likely 4.75 inches by 4.75 inches or 12 inches by 12 inches.
- 5). Choose a background image or color for the album cover. This could be simple, like a solid color, or more complex, like a picture of a skyline.
- 6). Choose a font and size for the lettering, making sure it is representative of both the band's image and the album itself. For example, the lettering for an album called "Death" would most likely be different for a heavy metal band versus an indie rock band. Make sure the band name and album title are clearly visible.
- 7). Layer design elements as you see fit, using ideas you brainstormed earlier. Now is the time to include images that convey the album's vibe and title.
- 8). Save the file.
- 9). Be sure to let all of the band members see the album cover design and make suggestions. Take note of any necessary changes and make corrections, if needed.
- 10
Submit the album cover design to the printing company you decided to work with.