Tip #1: Use Text Boxes

It's true, this little known Word feature will save you hours of layout time and will truly awe you with the power it wields. Text Boxes are floating boxes that are moveable and shapeable in virtually any direction, shape, size, or location. As such, using a Text Box when designing DVD or CD labels and jewel cases will only make your results mpre spectacular.

To insert an image, WordArt, text or whatever you have in mind into your CD or DVD Label, start by selecting Insert from the top menu bar in Microsoft Word. Click Text Box next. Now, draw your text box to your specifications -- it's ok if it's not perfect at this point. Next, click on the border of the text box and drag it to the location of your choice. Now, click inside of the text box. You can then type text, insert objects (again use the Insert menu), or add pictures. When you're all done adding elements and positioning the box, then right-click on the text box's border and then click on properties. From there you can change the border color (or get rid of it all together), change the fill color, and change it's size to something more exact if you'd like. You can then add more text boxes as needed. When all your design work is done, be sure to save your document and then print a test copy on plain paper.
>> Discuss your results in our CD Label and DVD Label Design Forum

Tip #2: WordArt - The Designer's Secret

What is WordArt? WordArt is a neat tool included with Microsoft Word which allows you to apply eye-catching text effects to your labels and cases. In order to use WordArt, be sure that your Microsoft Word was installed with the WordArt option. If you go to Insert from the menu (in some versions you will need to go Insert Picture and then select WordArt) and you see the WordArt option, you should be fine. If the WordArt option is not there, then you may need to reinstall Microsoft Word.

To use WordArt, go to Insert, then find the WordArt option. Select this, and WordArt will start. You can enter any text you'd like i.e. "My Family Photos" or similar, and then use WordArt's various options to make your text really pop. You'll be amazed at the kind of professional results that you will get.
>> Discuss your results in our CD Label and DVD Label Design Forum
 

Tip #3: Scanned Photos

Did you know Word includes a handy tool to scan in your photos and designs? Click on the Insert menu, then find Picture. Next click on Camera or Scanner, select your scanner, and then you can scan right into a CD label in Microsoft Word.
Super Tip: Often, once a scanned picture is part of a document, you can cut and paste it into a text box for even more flexibility.
>> Discuss your results in our CD Label and DVD Label Design Forum

Tip #4: Google Images

Google is just one of the many search engines out there that provides you with a way to search through the web's vast array of images. If you go over to http://www.google.com/imghp you can enter the type of picture, graphic, or image you are looking for and Google will find it for you. You can then use these images in your CD Labels, DVD Labels, or Jewel Cases. Just be sure to check the owner's site to ensure you can use the images at no charge. Sometimes you need to obtain permission to use images on the web. Always check before you use them.
>> Discuss your results in our CD Label and DVD Label Design Forum

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