General FAQ

Do you only design romance book covers?
No, I design a little bit of everything, although it is true that most of my clients are from the romance community, since that it what I typically read and write.

Do you take your own photos?
Not at this time. That’s in the plans for the future, but at this point, I use images from stock photography websites.

Where do you get most of your images from?
When I search, I use Depositphotos mostly because the prices are low and quality is high, and I try to keep my clients’ costs down as much as I can. Although I often use other sites like Shutterstock, iStockphotos, Canstock, 123RF, Big Stock, Dreamstime, Period Images and Hot Damn Stock. It’s really up to you where the images come from.

After I’ve ordered a cover, do you find the images or do I need to provide them?
Either way works. If you have an image in mind already, send me a link. It makes the process move quicker. If you would like me to provide some comps, I need a general idea of what you’re looking for, which you can include in the description section of my cover art request form.

I’ve put in a request for a cover – what now?
I will send you a cover art request form to complete so I can have a general idea of what you have in mind.

What if I have a specific font in mind for my cover?
If I own it, that’s not at all a problem. If I don’t, I do ask that you either provide the font file or that I am reimbursed for the cost of the font.

What if I have you design a covers with specific images, then decide I want to change the format halfway through?
Once the approval has been given for photos, I do purchase them. If you choose not to use them and want something else halfway through, I do ask that you pay the cost of the photos I’ve already purchased in addition to the new photos.

You designed a cover for “insert author” and I really like the design. Can I have one just like that?
Short-answer: No. Long-Answer: For each design I do, I establish a unique brand for that particular author alone. While I’m perfectly happy to help you establish your own branding for a book series, it would be unethical of me to give you someone else’s branding.

What if you don’t provide a service I need?
There’s no harm in asking. There’s a good chance I’ll be able to provide it.

How quick is your turnaround?
If I’m not too busy, I try to get a mockup to you within 48 hours of picking out images.

How do I pay you?
I send invoices via Paypal, unless other arrangements have been made. You do not have to have a Paypal account in order to pay via Paypal.

I’m planning a big cover reveal for my design. Is it possible for you not to post my cover on your site until after the reveal?
Of course, but don’t make me guess when that’s going to be. Let me know. If you don’t, it’s being added to my portfolio the next time I update my site. Also, I do ask that you let me know what date I can put your design on my site.

I’ve had three cover designers quit designing. Do you plan to continue designing for a long time? I’ve had the hardest time finding a dependable cover artist.
Sweet ‘N Spicy Designs is a full-time design company and this is my full-time job. Barring death or serious debilitating injury, I plan to be around for a long time.