My new label concept
 

So new rig new labels .. i made this with paint at work.. i need to get the actual size of a label (anyone know? like 3x5 is guess), clean up the image,
and find a Golem pic thats free.. if anyone can find a free image thats similiar to this one or that would fit in the label lemme know. Feel free to hate on it as much as you want. I like constructive critisizm.

http://www.homebrewtalk.com/gallery/.../Golem_Oil.JPG

I think it is cool. [As far as the free image, just modify the image to suit your needs. Once you change a part of the image it is no longer the property of the original artist because it is no longer their original art. (false, see below)]

Use Gimp or Inkscape to make the labels. I prefer Inkscape and working with vector images.

Some points I would bring up:

1. The label needs more balance, I assume you will use the right side for a description, that should help.
2. Papyrus font makes things look cheap and poorly done IMO. Go get a more unique font. I like fonts4free online, they have a huge number of free fonts that will make it look way more professional.
3. The top banner is not balanced and the spacing from the center rose is not even. Easy to fix and will have a big impact.

Cool idea! :mug:

I want to use gimp but i have a graphics program learning disability.. since paint was the onlything available at work i just had to use what fonts were available.

My intent is to clean up the gray / black parts with the heading and use it as a layer for all my future labels. (just change the background color and image)

once I figure out how to use gimp beter than drawing a square ill try to clean it all up.

I like the warning written along the side

yeah i will probably change it a little bit. I want to put a beer description on the right side to balance out the label. (style, flavor, Batch #)

What is the correct size for a standard 12oz bottle. Is it 3x5? im finding different answers on the internet.

I don't remember what the circumference is, but I do now that you can design around 3" being visible at any one time while viewing the label.

istock.com has fairly cheap images.

I'm not a legal expert, but I don't think this is entirely true. BUT for a label on a bottle of beer you can't legally sell, I don't think you have to worry about images you use.

I just dont want to get in trouble if i submit it to something like BYO's label competition every year.

I see that...then you'd have to look more carefully at their rules about using other people's art, etc.