Before&After Design Tip: Design a CD-Size Card Deck that Opens Into Its Own Display
Learn how to design a deck of loose cards to fit in a clear CD case that flips open for desktop display.
Here’s a quick design tip on collateral, CD design from issue 41 of Before&After Magazine.
Here’s a great way to spend a year on someone’s desktop: Design a CD-size deck of loose cards (two dozen on heavy stock is about right), and deliver in a clear CD case that flips open for desktop display. You may want to include a cover card and in the back a brochure-like text card or two. Cards can be printed on one or both sides.

The more “keepable” your piece is, the better; calendars are perfect, as are favorite sayings, recipes or tips on topics of shared interest.
CreativePro members can download original content from Before&After Magazine, a beloved resource that taught a generation of newly minted digital designers how to design and communicate effectively with the written word. See our archive here.
© John McWade/Before&After Magazine, courtesy of Gaye Anne McWade.
This article was last modified on January 3, 2026
This article was first published on March 14, 2025
Commenting is easier and faster when you're logged in!
Recommended for you
Before&After: How to Design Small Calendars
Create eye-catching calendar designs for wallet and desktop.
Before&After: Design a Flier That’s Its Own Return Envelope
On a budget? Need a response? This economical flier has it all.
Before&After: Design Like a Lazy Person
Design is easier if you segregate your page into two zones—image here, type ther...
