Who knew making a book cover could straightforward and, dare I say it? Fun. I’m using an app called Canva to test out different styles and colours for my book project. It is the perfect tool for experimenting with a palette of colours and photos because nothing is set in stone. You can tinker to your heart’s content until you’ve found ‘the one look you want.’ It’s simple, fun, and if I can use it – you can too.
How the Book Cover Began
I am writing a story about Toulouse (Touly) and his tabby friend Bear. Bear starred on his own blog with mom Katherine, as a cheeky and demanding tabby adored by everyone. He talked back to his mom like a typical teenager. I chatted to Kat a long time ago about an idea for a two tabby adventure but, sadly, sweet Bear passed before I could begin. Now, I have the outline of a story ready to start work and honour his memory with a smile and an adventure.
Initial Inspiration
I always tell photographers to look at their images before they delete. Why? Because the under exposed picture of Touly (above) was taken as I almost lay down on the grass and, at first glance looks terrible. Crooked yes, but look closer to see a lovely striding tabby capture.
I ran my cat photo through Luminar Neo to sharpen, lighten and straighten the image. You can see the tools I used in this screenshot. (Develop, Enhance Dodge & Burn) Now you can clearly see the determined stride and the serious look.
But, the story is about two tabbies, a cat hotel and diamonds so the grass had to go. Canva has a special tool, the ‘Background Removal Tool’ and, as I was playing with ideas, this was a quick and easy option. Now you can see the figures of Bear and Touly, a title, author’s name and text.
Hmmm? I like the two tabbies but maybe I need to change the background? See how easy it is to change your mind>
When I have a final idea, I can edit my cat figure in my software package or I can approach a cover designer with my idea for improvement. For my ideation stage Canva gave me cat figures ready to kick start my inspiration.
Now I had better get started on the first proper draft of my two tabbies adventure.
That’s a great photo and purrfect idea for a novel!
What a fun project!!! I’m super excited about this. I keep thinking Mudpie needs to be the star of her very own book too.
All you need to do is make a start!
How exciting. I can’t wait to read the book. XO
Mee-yow wow Miss Marjorie you are a Whizzard with fotoss!!
Toulouse lookss furabuluss!
Guud Luck on yore book two.
~~~head rubss~~~BellaDharma~~~ an (((hugss))) BellaSita Mum
I have been meaning to try out Canva for some time. Maybe when a couple of the Open University courses I’m taking end later this month, I’ll find the time finally.
Looking forward to reading the book.
That cover will be awesome in its final rendition, thanks to your skills!