Overview
Welcome to my Reedsy profile!
As an experienced Creative Director and Book Designer, I have collaborated with major publishers and authors across a wide range of subjects including fiction (thriller, crime, romance, young adult) and non-fiction (travel, essays, cookbooks, advice).
Here's a breakdown of my Cover Design Process:
Sketches:
Upon receiving your requirements and a summary or full text of the book, I begin by delving into the details that are crucial for a cover designer. Sometimes, elements that may not immediately stand out to the author can greatly enhance the cover design. I typically create 3-5 different cover design options using preview stock images, based on the brief. While I often stick to the agreed plan, I also offer my own suggestions as creative solutions. The brainstorming process can yield unexpected and exciting results!
Development:
Together, we select one or two drafts for further development. If necessary, I acquire full resolution images, which the client needs to purchase and license for their cover due to rights issues. In cases where stock images are not utilised, I employ my own resources to finalise the design or illustration.
Chosen design:
Based on the selected design, I prepare a complete jacket and provide a set of front cover, spine, and 3D images for promotional purposes.
Printing:
I meticulously prepare the jacket for printing, adhering to the specifications provided by the client's chosen printer.
Pricing:
Rather than charging by the hour, my pricing is based on a per-project basis. To obtain a personalised quote, please reach out to me. The cost depends on the estimated workload, and once we agree upon a price, it remains fixed, as long as there are no extra requirements in the meantime.
Starting rates for a photo- or illustration-based design begin at EUR 400. Feel free to request a quote specific to your book and situation.
Rest assured, client satisfaction is my top priority. I value open communication and want to ensure that you are delighted with the work we produce together.
Services
Non-Fiction
Fiction
Languages
Awards
- Tate Library Book Arts Collection Acquisition
Certifications
- BA Book Design
- MA Book Arts, University of the Arts, London
Work experience
Self-employed
Freelance book designer, working with major European publishers. In my years of professional practice I designed hundreds of book covers as a freelancer, not counting the ones included in full-time employment. This always included arworking to print-ready pdf files for various print houses and often preparing promotional material - banners, ads etc. I also designed quite a few logos and branding solutions. In addition to book covers, I designed layouts for dozens of books - front to back - ranging from cookbooks to catalogues to memoirs. All of these required extensive knowledge of the book production process including print techniques and ebook creation.
Foksal Publishing Group - a group of companies
I managed a team of designers and artworkers in a variety of imprints within the publishing group. I commissioned design and artwork assignments to external providers, making sure in-house procedures were adhered to and standards were maintained.
In-house studio I managed was responsible for sourcing illustration, graphics, cover designs, branding updates, production and artworking to final print and web output.
Świat Książki - part of Bertelsmann Publishing group
I led a team of designers/artworkers in providing the publishing house with covers for the Polish market.
Sage Publications London
Designing book and journal covers for this leading academic publisher with offices in London, California and India.
Creating a visually strong image within the competitive market, working closely with editors, marketing managers and production teams to prepare layouts attractive to the very specific readers this publisher attracts.
Portfolio
Chris has 7 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Sarah S.
Jul, 2024
PinnedAaron T.
Feb, 2024
PinnedEdward T.
Oct, 2023
PinnedRebecca R.
Oct, 2024
Aireen Fe L.
Aug, 2024
Sign up to read more reviews
Create a free Reedsy account to connect with Chris and thousands of other publishing professionals on Reedsy.