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How to Print CD Packaging

If you've made a CD (of your favorite music, for instance), then you may wish to create personalized inserts for your CD box. This packaging can be made relatively easily. There are software packages available just for this application. However, you can create your own templates fairly easily using image-editing software. All you have to do is print your back tray insert and the front card insert in the dimensions of a CD box.

Things You'll Need

  • Cardstock
  • Printer
  • Image-editing software
  • Paper cutter
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Instructions

  1. Making a Front Insert

    • 1

      Open a file in your image-editing software that is 9 3/4–by–4 3/4 inches large. This is the opened-up size of the front case insert. This insert is typically folded in half so that the front half (which shows through the case) has your cover art, and the folded back half (which shows inside the opened case) has additional information like track listings.

    • 2

      Arrange images and text on the RIGHT half of your file for the FRONT of the CD cover. Arrange images and text on the LEFT half of your file for the INSIDE of the CD insert.

    • 3

      Print the image on cardstock to make it more durable than regular paper.

    • 4

      Use a paper cutter to cut out the insert to the file's original dimensions. Using a paper cutter ensures that your cuts will be straight and even.

    • 5

      Fold in half and insert into the CD's lid.

    Making a Tray Insert

    • 6

      Open a new file that is 6–by–4 3/4 inches. This is for the tray and the two narrow sides. You'll designate 1/4-inch strips along each edge (vertically) for the sides of the tray.

    • 7

      Center any image and text desired on the file. Remember that the vertical edges will be folded and fit into the sides of the tray, so leave them clear.

    • 8

      Rotate your image by 90 degrees, placing one of the vertical regions horizontally so you can print text for the side of the CD insert. Place your CD title text in this area. Rotate your image 180 degrees to place text on the opposite edge.

    • 9

      Print the insert on cardstock; then cut it out to the original dimensions with a paper cutter.

    • 10

      Fold back the two edges 1/4 of an inch. Remove the plastic CD holder from the case and insert the tray liner. Replace the plastic holder. Your CD packaging is complete.

Recording Music

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