How to make a book cover

What to check

1. Write the title, subtitle, author, genre, tone, and one-sentence visual promise before choosing art

Write the title, subtitle, author, genre, tone, and one-sentence visual promise before choosing art.

2. Build the title as editable typography over text-free art and check the design at both full size and thumbnail size

Build the title as editable typography over text-free art and check the design at both full size and thumbnail size.

3. Only assemble the print wrap after trim, paper, binding, and final page count are known

Only assemble the print wrap after trim, paper, binding, and final page count are known.

Use the final production inputs

Calculate from the final formatted page count, not the manuscript estimate. Select the exact trim, binding, interior type, and paper stock before creating the cover sheet. If any of those values change, regenerate the dimensions and compare the exported PDF against the printer's current template.

Artwork, type, spine, and back-cover copy remain editable when the print setup changes.

Sources: Amazon KDP cover preparation. Recheck the current printer template before export.

Frequently asked questions

What should I decide before choosing artwork?

Write the reader promise, genre, tone, title hierarchy, and one dominant visual idea first.

When should I build the print wrap?

After the interior is formatted and the final page count is known.

How do I check genre fit?

Compare the finished cover at thumbnail size beside current books for the same readers.

How to make a book cover that works online and in print