RATES
The price of a design greatly depends on the time required for idea development and production. It is very difficult to list a standard price for a project, so free estimates are offered after supplying basic information.

FREE ESTIMATES
The major factor in giving an estimate is the time it will take to complete, in addition to expenses. When requesting a free estimate, be as specific as possible. Please answer the following questions when submitting a CD cover quote request:

1. What is the band/musician name?
2. What does the music sound like? List similar bands if possible.
3. What is the title of the recording? List song titles if available.
4. Is there already a concept or idea for the art? If so, please describe.
5. How many pages the cover will be? (a single 2 sided square slipped in the jewel case would be a 2 panel cover, a cover with one fold has 4 panels)
6. Will a logo be needed, or will one be supplied?
7. Are any there any existing covers or images which can be used as a style reference?
8. Who is in charge of project approval? List all people involved in overseeing and approving project.
9. Will any other design services be needed, such as postcards, posters, etc.?
10. Has a printer or CD duplicator already been selected? If so, which one?
11. When does the project need to be completed by?
12. Any other comments about the project, or specific concerns?

UNDERCUTTING
In general, the tactic known as "undercutting" is considered unethical. Undercutting refers to the pricing of work below industry standards. Of course, fair market competition allows for a wide range of prices. But if a design job is priced very low, it is often a sign of an amateur. Another tactic that is used by unethical designers is to promise quality work for a low price, with the intention of raising rates later due to "unexpected design charges". While there are legitimate reasons for requesting approval of a project budget increase, designers that "lowball" make this a regular practice to lure in clients.

WORK ON SPEC
"Work on speculation" refers to the practice of doing design or illustration work with no guarantee of payment. The artist "speculates" that they will get paid for their work, while the client "speculates" whether they would like to purchase the rights to use the artwork after it is done. This practice is unprofessional. Artists or designers that work on spec are operating outside of nationally agreed upon ethical practices and should be avoided. This is not to be confused with free estimates.

CONTRACT CONTENTS
Your satisfaction is important! Contracts are provided to ensure everyone knows exactly what to expect and when to expect it. Efforts have been made to simplify contracts as much as possible. The information below explains some key points of the contract. General guidelines recommended by the Graphic Artists Guild for contracts are followed.

1. Designer Responsibilities: Covers what aspects of the project the designer is accountable for. This is to be sure there are no misunderstandings.
2. Client Responsibilities: Covers what you will be responsible for, such as the supply of text for the liner notes, project approval, etc.
3. Estimate: Efforts are made to give precise estimates. Sometimes, project changes increase, decrease cost, or dramatically change the project parameters. This section outlines the procedure for making revisions to the original estimate after a project has been started.
4. Copyright: The copyright portion of the details what rights are being given, and what rights have been obtained for use in designs.
5. Payment: Terms of payment are covered. Portions of this contract are designed for bands or small business owners. Established companies may be eligible for special arrangements.