General FAQ
Do you only design romance book covers?
Nope! I design a little bit of everything. That said, many of my clients come from the romance community so there are many romance books in my portfolio.
Do you take your own photos?
No, I use licensed stock photography for covers.
Where do you get your images from?
I use licensed stock photography from a variety of sources. The exact site doesn’t matter as much as making sure the images are high quality and properly licensed for book covers. If you already have a preferred stock site or image in mind, just let me know. I’m flexible and can work with most platforms.
After I’ve ordered a cover, do you find the images or do I need to provide them?
Either works. If you already have something in mind, send me the link – it speeds up the process. If not, I can provide a set of image comps based on the details you give me in the cover art request form.
What happens after I’ve requested a cover?
I’ll send you my cover art request form to complete. This helps me get a clear idea of what you’re envisioning before I start.
What if I have a specific font in mind?
If I already own it, no problem. If not, I just ask that you either provide the font file or cover the cost so I can license it.
What if I approve specific images, then change my mind halfway through?
Once images are approved, I purchase them. If you decide to change directions, I ask that you cover the cost of the already-purchased images in addition to any new ones.
Can I have a cover that looks just like one you designed for another author?
Short answer: No. Long answer: Each design I create establishes a unique brand for that author. While I’d love to help you build your own branding—especially if you’re planning a series—it would be unethical to replicate someone else’s.
Do you offer premade covers?
Yes! I have a small selection of premades available for purchase. They’re a great option if you need something quick and affordable, while still getting a professional design.
Do you offer revisions?
Yes! I include a set number of revisions with each project (outlined when we start). Additional rounds beyond that may be subject to a fee, but my goal is always to make sure you’re happy with your cover.
Can you design for a whole series?
Definitely. We’ll establish consistent branding (fonts, layouts, and style) so your books are instantly recognizable as part of a series.
Can you design audiobook covers, box sets, or promotional graphics?
Yes! I can adapt your main design into audiobook covers, box sets, or promo graphics like social media banners, ads, bookmarks, and more.
What if I don’t have my final page count yet?
That’s okay. We can still work on the ebook cover and work on the print design later. Or i can even mockup a design for print before you have the page count. I’ll need your final formatted page count before I deliver the print-ready file, since spine width depends on it.
What if you don’t provide a service I need?
Just ask! If it’s design-related, there’s a good chance I can help…or possibly point you in the right direction.
How quick is your turnaround?
If my schedule isn’t packed, I usually have a mockup to you within 48 hours of selecting images. Timelines can vary depending on complexity and workload, but I’ll always keep you updated.
How do I pay you?
I send invoices through PayPal. You don’t need a PayPal account to pay as credit and debit cards work just fine. I also can accept Zelle or Venmo or even check/money orders. Let me know if you would prefer that method.
What if I need to cancel my project?
If work hasn’t started, there’s no charge. If I’ve already begun, you’ll be billed for my time.
Do I own the cover once it’s finished?
Once final payment is made, you receive the rights to use the cover design for your book and related marketing materials. However, the design itself remains my copyrighted work and may not be altered, edited, or resold. If you need changes in the future (such as resizing, adding award seals, or updating text), please contact me and I’ll handle those adjustments to ensure the integrity of the design is maintained. Stock images and fonts remain under their individual licenses.
I’m planning a cover reveal. Can you keep my cover private until then?
Absolutely! Just let me know the date of your reveal. If you don’t, I’ll assume I can post it the next time I update my portfolio.
I’ve had other designers quit - are you planning to stick around?
Yes. Sweet ’N Spicy Designs is my full-time business, and I plan on being here for the long haul (barring death or serious injury!).