Hi! So I stumbled across your blog, and I had some questions. I was just wondering how a person can get into book design. I am an undergraduate Art major and really want to get into designing book covers, etc. But have NO idea where to start. Do I get an internship with a publishing company first? Does my portfolio have to have book ideas in it already? Hope to hear from you soon!
If you’re just starting out, I’d recommend giving yourself an assignment. Re-imagine classic covers or a series like the Chronicles of Narnia. Play with genres and sizes: show examples of children’s books, business, self-help etc.
Getting a job with a publisher will be difficult, but once you get your foot in the door, you can make lasting connections that will keep you in the industry.
A friend who used to work for a Manhattan publisher said it was common to get postcard samples from book designers looking for work, so you could try that. Don’t forget about university presses or magazine/trade journal publishers if there aren’t any major publishing houses near you. Just be sure the publishing industry is where you really want to be, because you may find that advertising firms prefer someone with “agency” experience if you decide to switch industries later.
Social media makes it easier than ever to showcase your work and connect with other book designers, so if you’re committed, I have no doubt you’ll succeed. I’d be happy to look over your portfolio when you’re ready. Either way, let me know what happens, and good luck!
I always enjoy seeing the variations on a book cover when it goes global. Here’s a link to the many versions of Murakami Haruki’s novels, from Israeli to Spanish.
Mosey on over to the GrimcatProductions Etsy store if you’d like to own this particularly apt accessory for the e-reader experience.
One of my favorite blogs, brainpickings.org, has just introduced Book Pickings, a new “visual bookshelf,” and a better way to discover books in the Brain Pickings book archive.
Proving there is NO END to the things you can do with books, may I present: 12 Christmas trees made of books.
How to make simple pop-up Star Wars characters. Because it’s not like you have anything better to do.
