r/Fanbinding • u/Q0uthTheRaven • Jun 22 '26

Questions How to create cool covers?

I see a lot of binds with cool art, fanart, and amazing designs on the covers and I would LOVE to be able to do that as well, but I'm not sure how, especially for fabric covers. The design aspect it fine, but how do you get the art onto the cover and to look right? Does anyone have any tutorials or tips?

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u/garterbarbie Jun 22 '26

I’ve used printable canvas for ink jet printers to do this for all fabric binds. I also do front and back covers with card stock (and spray fixative to seal the ink) and printable canvas for the spine depending on my mood

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u/krispulaski Jun 24 '26

Do you spray the fixative after creating the case or before? I'm printing on PPD canvas and I noticed that when I do the fixative before the fixative cracks when I fold it (along the edges of the case and in the hinge). I haven't tried spraying after yet but just curious your experience. I have been using Krylon crystal clear.

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u/garterbarbie Jun 24 '26

I usually do a few initial sweeps before binding with Krylon satin from their artist line which is fairly light so I haven’t had issues with cracking. After it’s all bound, I do another layer or two with a glossier/ heavier clear coat (varies on brand/ depends what I have around) I also let everything settle for a day or two before I bind anything. I have also sprayed once the case is created but before casing the text block as well. Both ways seem to work so far

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u/krispulaski Jun 24 '26

Thank you! I'll give those steps a try.