This updated guide reviews three main approaches to creating eBook covers - template-driven generators, scanned hand-drawn art, and layout programs - then outlines modern tools, file-format considerations, licensing cautions, and when to hire a professional. Always confirm current platform specs for resolution and aspect ratio before exporting.

Three practical ways to create an eBook cover

Writers still use three basic approaches to make eBook covers: 1) use an eBook cover creator or template-driven design app; 2) hand-draw a cover, scan it, and convert to a digital image; or 3) create the cover in a drawing or layout program and export it to the format your distributor requires.

Each route works. The right choice depends on your design skill, budget, and how many books you plan to produce.

Modern tools and what they solve

Template-based tools (for example Canva, Adobe Express, BookBrush, and Amazon KDP's Cover Creator) give fast results for non-designers. They include templates, stock-photo access, and export options. Layout apps like Affinity Publisher or InDesign give greater control if you have design experience or need a custom layout for multiple formats.

Hand-drawing still has value when you want a unique, illustrated look. Scan at high resolution, clean the image in an editor, then export in the required file type.

For multiple books or a series, invest in a workflow: a master template, consistent typography, and batch-ready assets. That saves time and keeps branding consistent across covers.

File formats, colors, and resolutions

Ebooks typically use JPEG or PNG covers delivered in RGB color. Print covers require CMYK and print-ready PDF files. Platform requirements vary, so always check the distributor's current specs before exporting. Aim for a high-resolution image (longest side commonly between 1,600 and 3,000 pixels), but confirm the exact pixel or DPI guidelines for your platform first.

Also confirm whether a platform enforces aspect ratio (many use roughly 1.6:1 for portrait covers) or a minimum pixel dimension. 1

Cost, licensing, and practical trade-offs

Cover-creation apps range from free-tier templates to subscription services. Stock-photo licenses vary - some free (Unsplash, Pexels) and others paid (Shutterstock, Adobe Stock). Verify the license allows commercial use and, for covers, modification and distribution.

If you only need one simple cover and you're comfortable with basic editing, a free or low-cost template service is often enough. If you plan multiple books, work with a designer or buy a robust tool to control branding.

When to ask a pro

If you want a competitive, genre-appropriate cover, consider hiring a cover designer or getting feedback from published authors. A professional can help with typography, composition, and market expectations - all factors that affect discoverability.

Bottom line

Choose the method that balances your budget, time, and the number of titles. Use templates and modern cover creators for speed and consistency, hand-draw or hire a pro for unique visuals, and always verify format and licensing requirements before final export.

  1. Confirm current recommended pixel dimensions and aspect ratio for major platforms (Amazon KDP, Apple Books, Kobo) and replace [[CHECK]] placeholders with exact numbers.
  2. Verify whether major eBook retailers enforce specific minimum pixel dimensions or aspect ratios for covers and cite the exact values.

FAQs about Ebook Cover Generator

Do most eBook platforms accept JPEG or PNG covers?
Yes. Most eBook retailers accept JPEG or PNG in RGB for cover images, but exact size and aspect-ratio requirements differ by platform. Check the distributor's current guidelines before exporting.
When should I hire a professional cover designer?
Hire a professional if you want a genre-competitive cover, need custom illustration, or are publishing multiple titles and want consistent branding. A pro helps with typography, composition, and market expectations.
Can I use free images from sites like Unsplash for covers?
Some free image sites allow commercial use and modification, but licenses vary. Always confirm the image's license explicitly before using it on a commercial book cover.
Are template cover generators good for series or multiple books?
They can be efficient for series if you build a reusable template and consistent visual system. For higher control over layout across formats, a dedicated layout program or designer may be better.