Articles: digipack

Card changes the way somebody receives a disc. A plastic case sits on a shelf and rarely makes an impression. A folding sleeve printed across its whole surface reads more like a release than a data carrier, which is why bands, audiobook publishers and companies preparing materials for clients keep coming back to it.

Card or plastic

The decision usually comes down to three things: how the packaging should look, how much room you need for content and what happens to it afterwards. Card takes print across every panel, weighs less in transit and goes for recycling with the paper. Plastic copes better with a disc being taken out and put back every day, so it suits discs in constant use. For keepsake releases, gifts and materials handed out at events, card tends to win.

How many panels and where the content goes

A panel is one page of the folding sleeve. More panels mean more room for a description, photos and a track list, but also a larger piece overall.

• Two panels - front and back with a tray or pocket inside; the simplest and handiest version.
• Four panels - an extra page for the track list, a short description or photos of the band.
• Six panels - room for longer text, more photographs or a second disc.
• A version with a booklet pocket - when you want to include lyrics, instructions or extra material.
• Finish - matt film calms the colours down, gloss lifts them, and Soft Touch gives a velvety feel.

Before choosing a version, take a plain sheet of paper and write down what belongs on each side. If it all fits comfortably, the simpler form is enough. If things start to feel cramped, add a panel rather than shrinking the lettering.