A Tangle of Knots
CASE STUDY
The process of illustrating and designing a middle-age fiction book cover.
OBJECTIVES
"[A book cover] must grab a reader’s attention, and at the same time, in visual shorthand, communicate the book’s essence. In this project, you will learn how to design a book jacket that inspires a reader to stop, look, and buy."
Moodboard
Stylistically, I wanted to replicate that textured, rich, and well composed feeling that these book covers had. Many of the author's book covers were also illustrated, so it was a matter of combining the feel of her current covers with my own style and inspiration.
Sketches
I really tried to explore my avenues with this cover. I'm very fond of book cover design and put myself in the shoes of a 12-year-old me when it came to designing this cover. Sometimes, you do judge a book by its cover.
Digital Drafts
I used these rough digital sketches to lay down color, composition, and type. While both ideas were interesting, I ultimately moved on with the first concept to differentiate myself from the original book cover's concept.
Final Cover
I loved illustrating this cover and using the vibrant magentas and greens to create a cohesive illustration. I struggled a bit with typesetting on the flaps of the book, but with some feedback I was able to create a pleasing design.
