Raquel is truly a diamond in the rough. As someone who has worked with many designers, I know firsthand that it can be a difficult and nerve-wracking experience. Yet, every so often, you find a professional who blows you away with their work and professionalism to the point that you forget all the bad experiences you had before.
Raquel is that professional. Her designs vastly exceeded my expectations, she understood exactly what I was asking for. Do yourself a favor and hire her before her schedule fills up!❞
Raquel is truly a diamond in the rough. As someone who has worked with many designers, I know firsthand that it can be a difficult and nerve-wracking experience. Yet, every so often, you find a professional who blows you away with their work and professionalism to the point that you forget all the bad experiences you had before.
Raquel is that professional. Her designs vastly exceeded my expectations, she understood exactly what I was asking for and communicated clearly every step of the way. Do yourself a favor and hire her before her schedule fills up!❞
❝Once you find a professional in this industry who is as impressive as Raquel, you don't let them go.
❝Once you find a professional in this industry who
is as impressive as Raquel, you don't let them go.
Nick Schlager - Former NCAA D1 Wrestler, Trainer Coach, Author
- A world-class book or journal that's entirely yours
- Have your vision and goals truly heard
- And share a story that truly lands
for the first time. Maybe you've chosen self-publishing because you know that with the right guidance, you can create:
- How do I bring all these pieces together?
- When will I get to hold the book in my hands?
- And what will it all look like?
Paper types, formats, cover finishes, style, images, KDP requirements, and the list goes on.
Keeping up with all of it can feel overwhelming.
And making the wrong decision can cost you time, money, confidence, or worse, result in something that doesn't reflect you at all.
You're left wondering:
Bringing the Book to Life
Completing the manuscript
after many months of writing
is a huge achievement.
But finishing that chapter also means opening a new one:
Completing the manuscript after many months
of writing is a huge achievement.
But finishing that chapter also means opening a new one:
3 ways I can help you:
services
Interior Design
Creating the best reading experience
Great writing deserves to be experienced, not just read.
cover Design
Don't judge a book
by its cover? HUGE LIE
I condense hundreds of pages into a single striking, powerful image. A cover that grabs attention, builds credibility, and makes your readers think: This is my next read.
journal Design
Where reading meets pen, presence and purpose
All starts with the right guidance
Cover Design
Don't judge a book
by its cover? HUGE LIE
That split second is the difference between a book that sells and a book that sits on the shelf unnoticed.
I condense hundreds of pages into a single striking, powerful image. A cover that immediately grabs attention, builds credibility, and makes your readers think: This is my next read.
Journal & Workbook design
Where reading meets pen, presence and purpose
You're asking more of your readers because you know that real transformation doesn't happen just by telling; it happens when they take the time to stop, reflect, and apply.
That's why every layout is crafted to guide the journey and hold that space.
All starts with the right guidance
— Dr. Shantel Scott
Educator, speaker, Author
As a new author navigating the self-publishing process. Raquel exceeded every expectation. My vision for the book included fun design elements and specific places for journaling, and Raquel brought these to life so creatively. She didn't just follow instructions; she truly listened to my ideas and used her talent to create something polished and professional. If you are looking for a designer who is as reliable as they are imaginative, I cannot recommend Raquel highly enough."
"I was looking for a designer who could offer both technical structure and high-level creativity, making what could have been a daunting process feel seamless.
— Paula Stefany
Speaker - Psychologist
- Caregiver Advocate - Author
I truly appreciated her guidance and expertise every step of the way. I am extremely pleased with my book design.
She really understood my vision and brought it to life beautifully and thoughtfully.
It is exactly what I hoped for. Raquel went above and beyond, and I highly recommend her to any author looking for exceptional design work and a supportive, collaborative experience."
"I’ve already received so many compliments on my book.
— Mayra guillén
Thanatologist - writer - author
The process with Raquel was well organized and thoughtfully developed. Before her, I received designs that lacked care and didn't match my vision. She's a professional who knows what she's doing. Her artistic work captured my message perfectly, and I felt like it was truly an extension of myself. I had a specific idea for the cover, and she took it further than I could have imagined, creating something original and unconventional that reflected exactly what I was looking for. People have even said it's so beautiful they'd buy the book just for the cover."
"I learned that working with a publisher doesn't necessarily guarantee good design; this does.
— George Dellas
Founder of In Focus Healing and Wellness Clinic - Author
As a first-time author with little knowledge of book design, Raquel was a lifesaver. Her initial response to my requests convinced me she was the right person for the job.
Her transparency was refreshing; she clearly explained her process, my responsibilities, and established realistic timelines. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to understand my needs were exceptional. Despite the time difference between our countries, our collaboration was seamless. I am thoroughly delighted with Raquel's work and highly recommend her services."
"I felt she was as invested in the book as I was.
— pouya farbod
Founder & CEO of Tiibi - Author
Working with Raquel has been an outstanding experience from start to finish. She was deeply caring and fully connected to the work, always taking the time to understand not just the project itself, but also the goals, audiences, and intentions behind it.
Every step of the way she showed professionalism, insight, and genuine passion for bringing this book to life. I couldn’t have asked for a better collaborator. Her dedication and support made this process both smooth and inspiring. Highly recommended!"
"She combined attention to detail with big-picture vision, ensuring the final result aligned perfectly with the purpose and impact I wanted to achieve.
— Elisabet Martínez
Human Design Expert - Author
I am so happy and grateful for the cover design Raquel created. Everyone has loved it, and I truly do as well. I have no doubt that all my future book covers will go through her hands.
I've already recommended her to several people because they deserve to experience the magic she brings to everything she creates."
"It feels like a part of me is reflected in that design.
Kind words from authors
— Dr. Shantel Scott
Educator, speaker, Author
As a new author navigating the self-publishing process. Raquel exceeded every expectation. My vision for the book included fun design elements and specific places for journaling, and Raquel brought these to life so creatively. She didn't just follow instructions; she truly listened to my ideas and used her talent to create something polished and professional. If you are looking for a designer who is as reliable as they are imaginative, I cannot recommend Raquel highly enough."
"I was looking for a designer who could offer both technical structure and high-level creativity, making what could have been a daunting process feel seamless.
— Paula Stefany
Speaker - Psychologist
- Caregiver Advocate - Author
I truly appreciated her guidance and expertise every step of the way. I am extremely pleased with my book design.
She really understood my vision and brought it to life beautifully and thoughtfully.
It is exactly what I hoped for. Raquel went above and beyond, and I highly recommend her to any author looking for exceptional design work and a supportive, collaborative experience."
"I’ve already received so many compliments on my book.
— Mayra guillén
Thanatologist - writer - author
The process with Raquel was well organized and thoughtfully developed. Before her, I received designs that lacked care and didn't match my vision. She's a professional who knows what she's doing. Her artistic work captured my message perfectly, and I felt like it was truly an extension of myself. I had a specific idea for the cover, and she took it further than I could have imagined, creating something original and unconventional that reflected exactly what I was looking for. People have even said it's so beautiful they'd buy the book just for the cover."
"I learned that working with a publisher doesn't necessarily guarantee good design; this does.
— George Dellas
Founder of In Focus Healing and Wellness Clinic - Author
As a first-time author with little knowledge of book design, Raquel was a lifesaver. Her initial response to my requests convinced me she was the right person for the job.
Her transparency was refreshing; she clearly explained her process, my responsibilities, and established realistic timelines. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to understand my needs were exceptional. Despite the time difference between our countries, our collaboration was seamless. I am thoroughly delighted with Raquel's work and highly recommend her services."
"I felt she was as invested in the book as I was.
— pouya farbod
Founder & CEO of Tiibi - Author
Working with Raquel has been an outstanding experience from start to finish. She was deeply caring and fully connected to the work, always taking the time to understand not just the project itself, but also the goals, audiences, and intentions behind it.
Every step of the way she showed professionalism, insight, and genuine passion for bringing this book to life. I couldn’t have asked for a better collaborator. Her dedication and support made this process both smooth and inspiring. Highly recommended!"
"She combined attention to detail with big-picture vision, ensuring the final result aligned perfectly with the purpose and impact I wanted to achieve.
— Mayra guillén
Thanatologist - writer - author
The process with Raquel was well organized and thoughtfully developed. Before her, I received designs that lacked care and didn't match my vision. She's a professional who knows what she's doing. Her artistic work captured my message perfectly, and I felt like it was truly an extension of myself. I had a specific idea for the cover, and she took it further than I could have imagined, creating something original and unconventional that reflected exactly what I was looking for. People have even said it's so beautiful they'd buy the book just for the cover."
"I learned that working with a publisher doesn't necessarily guarantee good design; this does.
Kind words from authors
— Elisabet Martínez
Human Design Expert - Author
I am so happy and grateful for the cover design Raquel created. Everyone has loved it, and I truly do as well. I have no doubt that all my future book covers will go through her hands.
I've already recommended her to several people because they deserve to experience the magic she brings to everything she creates."
"It feels like a part of me
is reflected in that design.
— Dr. Shantel Scott
Educator, speaker, Author
As a new author navigating the self-publishing process. Raquel exceeded every expectation. My vision for the book included fun design elements and specific places for journaling, and Raquel brought these to life so creatively. She didn't just follow instructions; she truly listened to my ideas and used her talent to create something polished and professional. If you are looking for a designer who is as reliable as they are imaginative, I cannot recommend Raquel highly enough."
"I was looking for a designer who could offer both technical structure and high-level creativity, making what could have been a daunting process feel seamless.
— George Dellas
Founder of In Focus Healing and Wellness Clinic - Author
As a first-time author with little knowledge of book design, Raquel was a lifesaver. Her initial response to my requests convinced me she was the right person for the job.
Her transparency was refreshing; she clearly explained her process, my responsibilities, and established realistic timelines. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to understand my needs were exceptional. Despite the time difference between our countries, our collaboration was seamless. I am thoroughly delighted with Raquel's work and highly recommend her services."
"I felt she was as invested in the book as I was.
— Paula Stefany
Speaker - Psychologist
- Caregiver Advocate - Author
I truly appreciated her guidance and expertise every step of the way. I am extremely pleased with my book design.
She really understood my vision and brought it to life beautifully and thoughtfully.
It is exactly what I hoped for. Raquel went above and beyond, and I highly recommend her to any author looking for exceptional design work and a supportive, collaborative experience."
"I’ve already received so many compliments on my book.
— pouya farbod
Founder & CEO of Tiibi - Author
Working with Raquel has been an outstanding experience from start to finish. She was deeply caring and fully connected to the work, always taking the time to understand not just the project itself, but also the goals, audiences, and intentions behind it.
Every step of the way she showed professionalism, insight, and genuine passion for bringing this book to life. I couldn’t have asked for a better collaborator. Her dedication and support made this process both smooth and inspiring. Highly recommended!"
"She combined attention to detail with big-picture vision, ensuring the final result aligned perfectly with the purpose and impact I wanted to achieve.
With over 9 years of experience helping publishers and independent authors create beautiful pieces that will last a lifetime on their shelves and a background rooted in art, design, and illustration, I bring both technical expertise and genuine creative vision to every project.
I found meaning when I transitioned from traditional publishers to collaborating closely with authors. I love being present when they first hold their book and celebrating every win along the way.
I firmly believe this process should be fun and exciting,
not stressful or discouraging. That's why I created a clear, step-by-step process that allows us to dig deeper into your vision, understand your audience, and approach every book with care and deep respect for the story behind it.
Your words deserve to be seen, felt, and remembered.
Hi, I'm Raquel Colmenares
book design specialist and creative self-publishing partner
Team Paper Here!
With over 9 years of experience helping publishers and independent authors create beautiful pieces that will last a lifetime on their shelves and a background rooted in art, design, and illustration, I bring both technical expertise and genuine creative vision to every project.
I found meaning when I transitioned from traditional publishers to collaborating closely with authors. I love being present when they first hold their book and celebrating every win along the way.
I firmly believe this process should be fun and exciting,
not stressful or discouraging. That's why I created a clear, step-by-step process that allows us to dig deeper into your vision, understand your audience, and approach every book with care and deep respect for the story behind it.
Your words deserve to be seen, felt, and remembered.
Hi, I'm Raquel Colmenares
book design specialist and
creative self-publishing partner
My work
My work
Frequently Asked Questions
Once you complete your manuscript and fully edited. Then is ready for transformation!
Absolutely. Most of my clients are publishing their very first book. My job is to guide you through the entire journey, so you'll always know what to expect and make informed decisions with confidence.
Most full-print design projects take 12-15 weeks to complete, including both interior and cover files. If you have a specific launch date in mind, be sure to allow at least 3 additional weeks after submitting your print files. This gives us time to receive and review your printed proof copy before it goes live.
Yes. All final files are optimized for Amazon KDP and IngramSpark and delivered ready for upload. You'll also receive a mini guide, to help make the upload process as smooth as possible.
If you're unsure about printing options, I'll help you choose the best settings for your book. With over nine years of experience designing books for printing, I aim to make the publishing process feel clear and stress-free.
Yes. I work with a trusted network of talented illustrators and can assemble the right creative team for your project. We'll begin by defining the illustration needs and matching you with the right artist before moving into the design phase.
We'll establish a clear workflow and timeline from our very first meeting, so you'll always know what to expect and what I'll need from you at each stage.
Throughout the process, I'll guide you through decisions, answer your questions, and keep communication open and transparent. My goal is for you to feel supported, informed, and genuinely excited from our first conversation through the day your book is ready for publication.
