At SleepyCat Studios, we specialise in atmospheric, symbolic covers that tell a story through mood, texture and subtle meaning. Our designs lean into visual story-telling, evoking emotion and inviting interpretation, perfect for fiction, literary works and stories with rich themes.

We believe your vision is essential. Our process is highly collaborative, with key stages where you will share your ideas, preferences, and feedback to ensure the final design feels like an extension of your world.

We specialise exclusively in illustrated covers, crafted to match your story’s atmosphere and themes. We don’t use stock images or pre-made graphics, every cover is a bespoke visual piece, designed to capture the unique soul of your book.

Our process is highly intentional and tailored to each story. Most projects take between 4 to 8 weeks from concept to final delivery, depending on complexity and scope. We begin with a creative direction phase that includes moodboards, client alignment, and deeper narrative discovery. Your timeline will be clearly outlined at the start, but we don’t offer rushed services, great design takes time to unfold.

Each package includes a set number of revision rounds, agreed upon at the start. We align early through a creative brief and concept phase, so revisions are usually minor. Major changes outside the original scope may require an additional fee or redesign phase to keep the project on track.

Once you submit your project form and we confirm your spot, you’ll receive an invoice by email. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to begin the design process, with the remaining 50% due upon approval of the initial draft—before final files are delivered.

You’ll collaborate with a Creative Director who serves as your main point of contact throughout the project. They interpret your vision, guide the creative process, and oversee the team—ensuring your cover is cohesive, intentional, and fully aligned from concept to final delivery.

Every package includes a set number of revisions to ensure your vision comes to life. If additional revisions are requested, they can be added for an additional fees.

Due to the bespoke nature of our work, all payments are non-refundable once the design process has begun. However, we are committed to ensuring you’re happy with your final design, and we offer multiple opportunities for feedback and revisions along the way.

We prioritise thoughtful, high-quality design over speed. If you’re on a deadline, let us know early, we may be able to offer an adjusted timeline, but we don’t offer rush services.

You’ll own full rights to the final approved design and can use it across all book formats, marketing, and promotional platforms. SleepyCat Studios retains the right to showcase the work in our portfolio and studio promotions.

Our timelines are carefully scheduled to protect the creative process. Pausing a project once it’s underway may require rescheduling and could incur a restart fee to account for lost time and recalibration. If you anticipate needing a delay, let us know as early as possible, we’ll always try to find a solution that respects your vision and our production schedule.