- 1). Determine the underlying message and symbolic elements present in the book by examining its characters, setting, plot points and content. Consider images that would accurately express these ideas in a quick, direct manner to the proper target audience. Simple, attention-grabbing images work well because they create a focal point for the eyes.
- 2). Use a color wheel to experiment with different combinations of colors for the background, text and images on the book's cover. Keep in mind that legibility and clarity should take precedence over the esthetic value of the cover, though reaching a balance between the two is ideal. Contrasting color schemes, such as any two colors opposite each other on the color wheel, make for a striking combination that will grab the viewer's attention.
- 3). Prepare your images for print by opening them in a digital imaging program and setting the color mode to CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow and black). Make alterations to the color and composition of the images according to your design plan. Use the program's selection tool to remove the background from images where only the subject is needed.
- 4). Save your images when finished.
- 5). Create a new document in a page layout program. Set the dimensions of your document according to the size specifications of the final printed book. Include enough space for the back cover and spine of the book, as your cover will wrap around when printed.
- 6). Place your images and text within the document according to your design plan. Use your color scheme to set the background and text colors.
- 7). Save your document.
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