For about a decade, I have been offering low-cost design to bands, authors, software companies, and many other clients.

The way I work is simple. I want to know what your vision is--whether you have an album you've just recorded, a book you've written, software you've just coded. You know better than anyone else what would complete your vision. Even if you aren't entirely sure, I want to know what your expectations are.

From there, I begin creating several designs and send you examples. If you're not satisfied, I create more. When you are satisfied, we perfect it. The entire process involves an open line of communication.

Most designers charge a ridiculous up-front cost, like $800, or charge by the hour. $22/hour might not seem like a lot until they've put 40 hours into it! On the other hand, I have a very basic, flexible pricing solution:

I charge a flat fee of $100, plus $90 per element. What is an "element"? Say you want a book cover. Both the front and back design would be an element. Say you want album art. The front cover, the CD, the back cover, and each page of the booklet would be a separate element. Using this system, you will never pay for more than you receive, and because I work until you're happy, you will receive exactly what you want.

This system is much more efficient! Most designers will offer only one or two designs, at the cost of nearly a thousand dollars.

Of course, anyone can offer you something at a wonderful deal. In the last 10 years I have worked for countless bands, on both indie and major labels. I have worked authors, software developers, and designed creative for product packaging. I have even worked with Microsoft through a partnership with Byteaudio to create application skins for Windows Media Player.

The best part? I give you unlimited copyright ownership over the work. I ask that I may display the work as my own, in my own venues. If you do not want what I've created displayed on the Internet or in my studio, that's your call, and there's no charge.

If you're interested, I urge you to check out my portfolio and simply send an email to mattspire@gmail.com, and ask for a quote. Describe what you need done, and chances are we can begin collaborating right away!