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CD Packaging: What Makes a Great CD Packaging

April 2nd, 2010
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CD packaging may seem less significant than the actual CD inside it but nevertheless, it still plays a very important role in promoting your album. It is one of the best ways to advertise your music and it could greatly affect album sales. A really eye-grabbing CD packaging can even convince customers to buy the album even if they do not really know the band. Some would buy it merely for the amazing CD packaging and some are somehow persuaded to buy it because they associate good CD packaging to good music. A kick ass CD packaging is highly necessary if you are still new and if you want to have a good impression.

If you are thinking of a CD packaging design of your upcoming album, here is a checklist of what I personally think constitutes a great CD Packaging.

The CD packaging should protect your CD
First and foremost, a CD packaging should be able to perform its basic function. Its primary purpose is to store and protect the CD from scratches, dust, liquids, and other elements that could damage the disc. There are many CD packaging designs nowadays that try too hard to be unique that the functionality is compromised. This should be the first consideration when thinking about a creative concept for your CD packaging. Try to be creative without sacrificing the CD cover’s main function.

The CD packaging should be easy to ship
When planning the design of your CD packaging, always consider how it will be shipped. Choose materials that do not consume too much space and can easily be stacked. This may mean that you choose regular shaped containers over irregular ones. You should also consider the weight of the CD packaging. Try to make sure that the materials for your CD packaging is not too heavy to minimize hassles and additional shipping costs.

The CD packaging should grab attention
The tough competition in the music retail industry calls for a really eye-catching CD packaging. With the increasing popularity of piracy and the Internet, the CD packaging is one strategy to convince the consumers to buy the actual album. Think out of the box and find creative ways to make your CD packaging standout. There are thousands of ways to do this! You can use a different material like cloth or foils instead of the usual jewel cases. You can use shiny paper, big images, freebies; whatever you think attracts the buyer’s eye.

The CD packaging should reflect the musician’s personality
The design of the CD packaging should somewhat reflect, if not showcase, the musician’s personality and style. If you are a new artist who’s still trying to build your name in the music industry, it is one great way to show your character so the buyers would love to know you more. If you’re band plays psychedelic pop music and you all love neon colors and pop culture, show this quirkiness in your CD packaging.

The CD packaging should be eco-friendly
This is not a must but you would be doing something good to the industry, and to the whole world, by promoting green CD packaging. Imagine if all musicians produce eco-friendly CD packaging, then the world would be a much better place. Musicians influence a lot of people thru their music and style and maybe by producing eco-friendly CD packaging, they could convince others to be more aware of the environment. You can use recycled paper instead of jewel cases, you can use stickers instead of shrink-wraps, and you can use soy-based ink instead of petroleum-based ink. There are tons of ways to produce an eco-friendly CD packaging! The downside of choosing this path is that it could cost a bit higher but just consider the few cents as your contribution to the world.

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Unified Manufacturing is a custom CD/DVD and Vinyl Manufacturing facility based on both sides of the US. Our clients range from indie artists to major label artists such as Stevie Wonder, Sheryl Crow, and Ringo Starr. If you need an Instant Quote on a project AND you want FREE SHIPPING ( free shipping on all quotes from the blog) – Then CLICK HERE.

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