Should my cover letter be designed?

Keep it simple and readable. Your portfolio is where your design skill shows, so the letter should be clear, short and easy to scan.

What if my best work was for a student or volunteer project?

Use it, and say clearly what it was. A good student brief can show more than an average paid one.

Do I need to attach my portfolio?

A link is usually better than a large file. Check that it works on a phone before you send it.

How long should a designer's cover letter be?

Three or four short paragraphs. The portfolio does the heavy lifting.

Graphic designer cover letter example

A strong graphic designer cover letter points to your portfolio, describes one real project from brief to finished result and shows that you handle client feedback well. It should show why you like that studio's work rather than repeating your CV.

3 March 2026

Tidewell Design Studio

Dear Mr Fenwick,

I am writing to apply for the Graphic Designer position at Tidewell Design Studio, advertised on your website. I have three years of experience at a small studio, designing logos, brand guides, leaflets and social media graphics for local businesses in Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign and Figma. My portfolio link is at the top of my CV.

Recently a local bakery asked for a new logo and packaging. I listened to what they wanted, presented three routes, and after two rounds of feedback we settled on a simple hand-lettered logo and a label system that cost less to print because it used two colours. I prepared the print files and checked the proofs with the printer myself.

I am interested in Tidewell because your work for independent food and drink brands is clear and confident, and I would like to work on more packaging. I work well to deadlines, keep clients updated and take feedback calmly. I can start after one month's notice.

I would be happy to walk you through my portfolio at an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Yours sincerely,

Maria Kowalczyk

Example · fictional candidate · Prism design

Tips for a graphic designer cover letter

Mention your portfolio early and say which project to look at first
Describe one project in three steps: the brief, what you did and the result
Show that you handle feedback well, because every design job involves it
Say what you like about the studio's own work, using one specific example
Name the software from the advert that you use, and be honest about your level

Pair it with a CV: see our graphic designer CV example.

Graphic designer cover letter example

Tips for a graphic designer cover letter

Questions about graphic designer cover letters