I just joined RoyalRoadL today.

I want to submit a "First Submission," but I do not have a good cover for my work. (I do not own any designing software nor am I a good "artist.")


Is it okay to just submit a "blank" cover, and then when I have time to consult a professional designer, I can go back and re-edit/re-submit a good/decent cover?

Just do the wattpad thing, get something from the net, and then slapped your title in the picture. 

Now, this is only good if you just want to share something here in the site. just to give your LN some eye candy. but if you plan to publish it professionally one day then you do have to get something original or ask some artist friends of yours to do it for you. 

good luck and keep writing!

I myself worked a few hours on quite a few covers. The current one will last until I can commision a professional one, I have a clear idea of what I want just lack the money.

You don't need a cover at the start if it is lacking in quality. Doing that will make readers avoid your story.

A cover is optional for a submission.

Indeed, a cover is optional, but I still strongly suggest that you have one for your story. A story with a cover will attract much more potential readers than one without a cover. So until you have the time to make one, you should pick a random image that matches your story (free of rights, preferably), add the title of your story (or not), and make it your cover.
And yes, no worries, you will be able to edit or change your cover anytimes.

Hi, as a up-and-coming author myself with terrible artistic skills, I've used this free online cover design software called Canva, which can be found with a simple Google search. Of course, the range of things that are free to use may not be excellent, but as a novice I think it's just fine. All the best for your fiction!

if you need a way to color quicky then check my post here
https://forum.royalroadl.com/showthread.php?tid=98480

If you still need input on this PM me and I can help.