The Well Designed Writer
A monthly design newsletter for authors 🎨
💬 In This Month’s Issue
→ Word of the Month
→ Trending IG Reel Audios
→ Author Design Inspiration
→ Why I’m Moving Web Clients to Squarespace and Canva
Hi Creatives
My word for last month was: CONFIDENCE 💪

Here’s how I lived it:
✨ Officially launched my Substack: My aim is to make it a valuable resource for authors.
✨ Rebuilt my website: And put my face on it (yes, that was a big step for me).
✨ Submitted a proposal: Proposed a research project on women’s craftivism throughout history.
✨ Posed nude with over 5,500 people: For Spencer Tunick’s art installation at the MELT Festival. It was equalising and humbling. We are all human.
✨ Set boundaries and said no: Had to let go of some personal things that didn’t align with me.
✨ Said yes: Made room for some exciting writing-world projects that felt perfectly right!
We’re writers, we know words have power. What’s your word of the month? Share it in the comments – I'd love to hear.
📈 Trending IG Reel Audios
1️⃣ Pet appreciation post: Writers and their pets go hand-in-hand! Use this trending audio to feature your furry writing buddy. Example.
2️⃣ Announcing book news: Whether it’s a launch, a contract, or exciting news, this audio is perfect for big reveals. Example.
3️⃣ Fun Booktok audio: Encourage readers to buy books instead of flowers. Example.
🎨 Author Design Inspiration
1️⃣ Emma Grey’s cover reveal for PICTURES OF YOU.
What I love: Glitter and animation make this Canva-created reveal reel really pop. Simple but effective.
2️⃣ Bookstr Review of LEAVE THE GIRLS BEHIND.
What I love: A creative review layout with a dream cast, book trope page, and more.
3️⃣ Behind the scenes of THE BOOKLOVER’S LIBRARY.
What I love: Madeline Martin’s use of real-life research photos brings her book to life in this reel.
Why You’ll Regret Choosing WordPress for Your Author Site 👀👇
I was once a WordPress devotee—after spending $2000 and completing an in-depth course, I was convinced it was the platform for authors. But things have changed. Now, almost every author I work with is moving to more manageable platforms like Squarespace and Canva. Here’s why:
🛠 Ongoing Maintenance – Regular updates, backups, and security checks are a must.
🔌 Too Many Plugins – They’re needed for basic functionality, but they often slow things down or cause conflicts.
😟 Complex Interface – WordPress isn’t as user-friendly as it seems, especially if you’re just looking to write and share your work.
💸 Hidden Costs – Hosting, premium plugins, and themes add up quickly.
🚀 Faster Setup – Other platforms let you hit the ground running with less fuss.
📱 Mobile-Friendly Design – Responsive design is built-in and easier to adjust on platforms like Squarespace and Canva.
So what do I recommend?
Squarespace – Ideal for multi-book authors or those with a service-based business.
Canva – Perfect for debut authors or those who need a simple, one-page site.
Shopify – The best option for indie authors wanting to sell directly to readers.
Skip the hassle and focus on writing with a platform that’s easy, reliable, and designed to grow with you.
Case Study: Kim Lock’s Author Site 📚
When Australian author Kim Lock approached me, she needed a minimalist, professional site as a digital business card. Initially, we started on WordPress, but it quickly became clear that achieving her vision would mean extra costs and complexities. By switching to Canva, we built a clean, elegant one-page site that met her needs—at less than half the cost. You can view it here to see what Canva can do.
Looking for a website that’s easy to manage and secure? I’m now taking bookings for early 2025, with a few discounted spots available for late 2024.
Visit my website to book a free, no-obligation call, and let’s discuss how we can create a site that meets your needs—without the WordPress maintenance.
PS Want to see my design process iteration for this Substack Header Image? Just like writing, design is a drafting process. Check out the GIF below to get an idea of what mine looks like 👇










I love working with you and am SO excited for this Substack. Very keen to hear more about your research project - sounds fabulous! And LOVE what you've done with Kim's new website!
Loved working with you, Annie! Thank you for my lovely, hassle-free new website :) xx