DVD-safe labels? ...and a question on menus (w/photoshop)

[sofakng]

Ok, first question... Can I use my old CD labels with my new DVD-R's? I'm creating DVD's for my family and I'd really look the DVD itself to look professional. A followup question would be, what is a good program to design the DVD label and the DVD case insert?

Second question... What DVD authoring programs can use Adobe Photoshop files to assist in menu creation? I'm aware of DVDLab, but are there any others?

[rcb]

There's a running debate on adhesive label use for dvd's. AS dvd's run longer/faster/hotter in set top players, a poorly applied paper label can lift, cause playback jitters dur to unbalancing or even trash a player if the label spins off.

Others use 'em and say no problems even over extended time periods.

Some label options to consider:

hub labels - small. but less likely to unbalance.
"no-wobble" labels ( seehttp://americal.com/cgi-bin/smart_cart2.cgi?category=wobble&src=EML) for details
The good ol' sharpie marker.

Always use a good label applicator that centers labels.

As to software, many to choose from. MediaFace II is a one freeware app that comes to mind. a google search will turn up many more.

can't really speak to photoshop - don't use it. But, if you can save images to .bmp or .jpg, most label s/w apps should be able to import.

[Kolosus]

You might consider buying a media printer. Prices have really come down on those. Using labels is a "win some, lose some" proposition IMHO.

Just don't save your image files only in Photoshop's proprietary format. Save them in jpg and/or bmp as well, and you open up more possibilities for yourself in the way of authoring programs.

[muskgrave]

i'd say keep the copy in psd just incase the authoring program does accept the psd (photoshop) files. It makes it MUCH easier to go back and change a couple layers than have to start over on a jpg.

Also If you are going to try and mass distribute your stuff I'd do like they said above and invest in a media printer and buy the printable dvd's. I know some people that make dvd's that go out all over the world and they have had lots of problems with the adhesive labels..even a little bubble or imperfection turns into a big problem at those high rpm's

dlv

[Kolosus]

Just don't save your image files only in Photoshop's proprietary format. Save them in jpg and/or bmp as well, and you open up more possibilities for yourself in the way of authoring programs.

i'd say keep the copy in psd just incase the authoring program does accept the psd (photoshop) files. It makes it MUCH easier to go back and change a couple layers than have to start over on a jpg.

Sorry, Guess I should have been a little clearer on that statement.
Yes, save your files in Photoshop's proprietary format for obvious reasons.
But if you need a jpg or a bmp in a certain authoring program, then save a copy of the psd file in one of those formats at the time you need it.

[muskgrave]

actually you did use the appropriate qualifier..you said don't save them ONLY in psd format. It was I who did not read it thoroughly enough

dlv

[jntaylor63]

Use HUB labels.

Pros:

1.) Small label and as close to the center as you can get, ie no wobble.
2.) Cheap. Got 520 Surething hub labels for 13.00


Cons: (Some what)

1.) Little room for your art. You really can't but a lot on them, only have room for the title and maybe a DVD logo. Sometimes I can scan the orginal DVD and use it as the back ground. Most of the time it comes out pretty good; you can even make out the very little logos on the hub label and see the title and actors. Just make sure you scan and print at you best level.


True, CD-DVD printers are getting cheaper and so is the printable media. But, I dont want to drop the money to buy an other printer and I only buy brand media.(On sale)

All in all, I think this is the best solution for cost vs. cool factor.

My 2 cents are on the way.

[DTSL06]

Been using CD/DVD paper labels with a DVD Printer (Epson 900) applied using Neato applicators

The best labels I found are

1. Neato Matt finish (best, very good colour and no colour bleeding), comes with center hub rings if u want to use them.
2. Avery Matt (good, colour not as rich as Neato, no colour bleed).
3. Stomper Matt (fair, colour not as rich as Neato or even Avery, no bleed)
4. Memorex Matt (poor, colour faded look, no bleed) comes with center hub rings if u want to use them.
5. Staple's House Brand Matt (bad, too thin, ink really soaks too much, bleeding of colours)


Gloss is nice but cost way too much for what u get compared to matt finish.