CD packaging options for an audio release can be a difficult decision when mulling over the details when pressing and manufacturing CDs. We always like to collect comments and thoughts from customers about it. It’s typically a situation where multiple things are being taken into consideration. If you’re touring – lugging 1000 or 2000 jewel cased CDs  around is cumbersome. There’s the environmental aspect, and trying to stray away from using plastic cases. There’s the desire by most bands and artists to create a physical version of their record that is as aesthetically pleasing and as well put together as possible.  There’s also an element of design distinctiveness that is important to most. On all of these fronts, the standard 2 panel digipak, 3 panel digipak, 4 panel digipaks, and 2 panel and 3 panel eco wallet products create compelling and attractive packaging for an audio release. They are the designers choice hands down, and with the introduction of custom dielines, and special folds, audio clients are creating non digital physical product of their music that can look amazing and command attention. The general consensus among our customers is that fans and consumers alike are expecting more elaborate packaging with releases.

Things to take into consideration if you’re responsible for the design of a project that uses a digipak or eco wallet template.

• The card stock is most typically printed 4/0 – meaning – one side is printed and one side is not. The common misconception here is that the inside of the packaging will be white paper. Not true. Digipaks and eco wallets are glued and folded. The unprinted surface area can only be seen on the inside of the package as the seams between panels, or the back of the exterior spine. You can see what we mean in the photo included at the beginning of this blog post.  You can have both sides printed to incorporate a design into the slim areas, but that is considered 4/4 printing – or full color both sides.
• Card stock by default is printed with an aqueous gloss coating. This is the most standard finish in the industry and is typical . A matte finish can also be applied to card stock for a different look.
• You have more visible panels in a digipak or eco wallet versus a traditional jewel case with print and traycards.
• Digipaks can utilize both clear and black trays – much like a jewel case set up – however, using a clear tray is recommend as you can introduce a design behind the tray that is visible once the disc has been removed.

Questions about card stock packaging? Contacts us or request a quote.