What is the Standard Size of a Vinyl Record Cover?

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From audiophiles to casual listeners, vinyl records are once again increasing in popularity and reclaiming their spot as a cherished format for music consumption. One reason for this surge in popularity is the large-format artwork that accompanies your record purchase! It’s not just about audio, it’s about the visual experience as well. The artwork and design of the covers capture attention and serve as both a decoration and discussion piece.

In this article, we will explore the elements that make up your vinyl artwork, with focus on standard sizes that you can expect as you build your display plan… including the standard size of a vinyl record cover, the dimensions of different vinyl record formats, how to choose artwork for a custom album cover, the sturdiness of vinyl record covers, and the size of a record player.

What are the standard vinyl sizes?

Vinyl records come in various sizes, and the dimensions of their covers will match those vinyl dimensions. The most common sizes for vinyl records are 7", 10", and 12". Let's take a closer look at each of these sizes.

The 12" vinyl record is the standard size for full-length albums. It typically contains a collection of songs, spanning both sides of the record.

On the other hand, the 7" vinyl record is commonly used for singles or EPs (extended plays) that feature a smaller number of songs.

So, what size is the 12” album cover?

The dimensions of a 12" vinyl record cover are between 12.25 and 12.375 inches (31.43 cm) in height and between 12.25 and 12.375 inches in width. This square shape allows for ample space to display elaborate artwork and design that complements the music contained within.

What size is a 7” 45rpm record cover?

The 7" vinyl record cover is significantly smaller than the 12" counterpart, measuring approximately 7.25 inches (18.41 cm) in height and 7.25 inches (18.41 cm) in width. Despite the smaller size, it still provides enough space for eye-catching artwork and design.

How should I choose artwork for a custom album cover?

When it comes to choosing artwork for a custom album cover, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, the artwork should reflect the music and style of the music that is on your vinyl record! It may be capture the essence of the artist or album and resonate with the listener; it may be more focused on the listener – with the graphics including personal pictures, inside jokes, and unique / personalized artwork elements.

No matter the visual focus on the jacket itself, the artwork should be visually appealing and engaging, drawing the attention of listeners and loved ones who are browsing through your record collection or taking in your wall display. Remember that the dimensions mentioned earlier are for the record covers themselves, so the artwork should be designed to fit within these dimensions.

To ensure the best possible outcome, it is recommended to work with a professional graphic designer or illustrator who has experience in designing for vinyl record covers. They can guide you through the design process and help create a visually striking and cohesive album cover that stands out among the rest.

How sturdy is a vinyl record cover?

Now, let's discuss the durability of vinyl record covers. Vinyl record covers are typically made from cardboard or thick paperboard to provide strong durability and protect the vinyl record inside. The quality of the record cover can vary, but it is important to choose a cover that offers sufficient protection for your vinyl.

When it comes to vinyl record jackets, Freestyle Vinyl creates custom vinyl jackets with best-in-class jacket quality and toughness. We offer custom vinyl artwork and printing services across all vinyl sizes and dimensions, ensuring that your custom album cover is not only visually appealing but also sturdy and long-lasting. By choosing a high-quality custom vinyl record jacket, you can be confident that your cherished vinyl collection will remain well-protected.

Out of curiosity, how big is a record player?

Finally, let's touch upon the size of a record player. Record players, also known as turntables, come in various sizes and designs. However, the standard size for a record player is typically around 16 inches (40.64 cm) in width, 14 inches (35.56 cm) in depth, and 5 inches (12.7 cm) in height. It's worth noting that these dimensions can vary depending on the specific model and brand of the record player.

The smallest turntables available on the market are typically portable or mini turntables. These compact models are designed for convenience and portability, making them great for travel or small spaces. Some popular options include the Crosley Cruiser Portable Turntable and the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT.

On the other side of the spectrum is the Clearaudio Statement, which is known for its impressive size and engineering. It features a massive platter and a meticulously designed suspension system, making it one of the most advanced and high-end turntables available. Its dimensions can vary slightly depending on the specific configuration, but as a general reference, the Clearaudio Statement measures approximately 27.6 inches (70 cm) in width, 45.3 inches (115 cm) in depth, and 11.8 inches (30 cm) in height. Its large size and intricate design contribute to its exceptional performance and reputation among audiophiles.

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So, to recap… the standard sizes of vinyl record covers are 12", 10", and 7", with the 12" being the most common for full-length albums. Jacket artwork will be between 1/4” and 3/8” larger than those sizes, in a square. When opting for a custom album cover, it is essential to choose artwork that reflects the music and appeals to your loved ones / listeners. Additionally, the sturdiness of vinyl record covers is crucial to protect the precious vinyl inside, and Freestyle Vinyl offers high-quality custom vinyl records, custom album covers, and other vinyl accessories that combine both aesthetics and durability. Whether you're displaying a standard record jacket or a custom one, the beauty of listening to vinyl lies not only in the music but also in the artwork that accompanies it.