
Design For Visual Narrative
Applications for our Emerging Author Creative Direction Fellowship are Now Open!
Our Services
We craft concept-led book covers and creative direction packages for literary works across genre.
Our process draws directly from your manuscript, its tone, architecture, and emotional weight, to create visual systems that serve the story, not just the shelf.
From full creative direction to single-title design, each tier offers a distinct level of engagement.
Reflections on the Studio
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Reflections on the Studio .
Editorial Partner
“The visual direction was fully aligned with the manuscript’s tone. The process was clear, collaborative, and deeply respectful of the story, one of the most seamless creative experiences I’ve had.”
Literary Author, Studio Client
“Every part of the process felt aligned with my story. It was thoughtful without being overwhelming. The end result wasn’t just beautiful, it felt right.”
Debut Author
“This was my first time going through the cover design process, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. The studio made everything clear and collaborative, and the final result felt so aligned with the story, it was even better than I imagined.”
Freelance Illustrator, Creative Circle
“Clear briefs, realistic timelines, and open communication. It’s rare to feel this respected and supported as a freelancer.”
FAQs
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We specialize 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.
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We believe your vision is essential. Our process is 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.
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We specialize in conceptual, mixed-media covers designed to reflect the emotional and narrative texture of your book.
Rather than relying purely on stock images or pre-made elements, each cover is built from scratch, whether it’s illustration, collage, photography, or type-based art.
Every piece is bespoke, driven by your story’s tone, rhythm, and inner world.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.