Guides for artists who sell music in person

• Album cover size

  Sizes for CD, vinyl, cassette and streaming art, each with its source and the day we read it.

  For artists getting art ready for print or upload.

  Check your cover art in your browser

• How to choose download cards

  Ten questions to ask any download-card service. We answer each one ourselves, weak spots included, and say where Slappcard is not the right fit.

  For artists comparing services before a print run.

• Music QR codes

  How small a code can print, why distributors reject codes on cover art, and static against dynamic codes.

  For artists putting a code on a poster, sticker or insert.

• Sell music at shows and build an email list

  A merch-table routine, what the fan sees at the email step, what you can export afterwards, and what a card does not do.

  For artists who hand music to people in person.

• Album release party checklist

  The format, the room, what guests take home and the day-after email, with a printed card as one option.

  For artists planning a show or a listening party.

A download card is a printed card with your artwork on it and a QR code that opens a private listening and download page. Start with how it works, then see packs and cost, or read the short explainer on the home page. For a card that plays your music when you meet people at shows or studio sessions, see music business cards for musicians and DJs.

Figures from other companies link to the page that publishes them, with the date we read it. Numbers we work out ourselves are labeled, and where we could not verify something we say so. Found a mistake? Email contact@slappcard.com.