Newleaf Design is not a large company. Actually, it's just me, Matt Strieby. So when you deal with Newleaf, you're dealing with the "person in charge" at all times. I offer exceptional personalized service and I strive to always be as communicative as possible about your project.

Completion time depends on a number of factors, but mostly it is governed by three things: 1) the size and complexity of the design, 2) how quickly you send necessary materials (text, liner notes, images, etc.) to Newleaf Design and 3) how quickly you respond and make corrections to proofs sent to you from Newleaf Design. Generally speaking, you should plan on about three to four weeks for the design phase (please note that this does not include the time it takes to manufacture your CDs).

Some people come to me with very specific ideas about what they want, others have a few pictures, but no real ideas, and yet others want me to come up with everything. I can start a design from scratch or take what you have and go from there. Just remember, starting from scratch means my fee will be higher because the concept development phase takes longer.

You will be receiving up to three proofs of your art as part of the design process. The first proof is generally a concept design. Since this is a fairly rough draft design (often without some the text and other design elements) significant changes to the design can be made at this point. The second and third proofs are more refined versions and changes to these should be more minor.

Again, it depends on what point we are at with the design. I strive to deliver your art at the price I quote you. The review of the first proof will usually iron out most of the major design issues. If you request significant changes to the design at the second proof, I may need to charge extra. I will always inform you if I think any additional charges are necessary and let you know exactly how much they will be.

I charge 50% of the total price of the artwork to first-time clients. The deposit assures me that you are serious about the project. The remaining 50% is due when I have completed the artwork to your satisfaction- which assures you that I am serious about your project, too.

No. I am a graphic designer, not a printer or CD manufacturer. Generally, you the client make the decision about where to manufacture the CDs and handle the business arrangements with the CD manufacturer. I will send the art files to whomever you choose. I can also recommend several reputable CD manufacturing firms to you.

It's best to have the manufacturer chosen before design of the art starts. Different manufacturers have different art templates and specifications for printing, and I like to know what those are before I do any major design work. Additionally, if you changed manufacturers in the middle of the design phase, I would have to charge you for changing templates, and I don't want to do that.

It depends on the manufacturer. You will need to ask that question when you contact the manufacturers. I have noticed, however, that three weeks seems fairly average.