creating a dvd cover

[bobbylong]

i have some short films i never got around to making dvd covers for and now that i just finished my first wedding im trying to learn how to create a dvd cover.

if i make if in photoshop, what size does it need to be? any template i can use?

what should i save the file as to be printed in best quality?

and when i print it, is there a special paper i can buy that is the right size and works with most printers? or can i take the file to kinkos or somewhere and have them print it on the right size paper?

[Sad Max]

1) Create your file as a targa (.tga), TIFF (.tif) or other 'non-lossy' file type (formats like JPEG and BMP are 'lossy' - they utilize compression which makes for nice small files but lose image quality in the process).

2) The pixel dimensions of the file will be determined by the print size (measure a CD insert for the size, height by width and set your print resolution to around 300 dpi - although you ought to experiment with the resolution for best results; 300dpi may be unnecessarily high for your purposes)

3) If you are printing just a few copies, print to a standard sheet size (like 8.5"x11") and cut the inserts to size. If you are printing lots of copies, get quotes from a service bureau (Kinkos is usually the most expensive way to go; see if someone in your area offers lower bids).

[Taky]

I created a template for Photoshop. It works with Epson Inkjet printer with the borderless printing feature on regular letter size paper. So you only need to trim the right and bottom side of the photo paper. You can download the template here

http://lacolorshop.com/blog/view.asp?id=37

http://lacolorshop.com/blog/images/wingDVDcover.jpg http://lacolorshop.com/blog/images/wingDVDlabel.png

I also have the template for DVD label too. You can use it with Epson PrintCD software to print the DVD labels.

[milksac]

Using the DVD and Dolby logos without permission or payment to said companies is a bad idea. Especially when you're offering it up as a public download. Other than that Derrick & Wing's DVD cover is lovely.