Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Can You Print Your Own Book?
- What Are the Costs of Printing Your Own Book?
- 9 Steps to Print Your Own Book
- 3 Websites That Provide Print-On-Demand Services
- Conclusion
- Print Your Own Book FAQ
Introduction
Imagine holding your very own book in your hands, flipping through pages filled with your thoughts and stories. Historically, the world of publishing has been exclusive, with major publishers accepting only a small fraction of submitted manuscripts. But things have changed. Self-publishing has emerged as a popular alternative, with success stories like The Martian and Fifty Shades of Grey proving that self-published books can indeed become bestsellers.
As the self-publishing market continues to grow—with $1.25 billion in annual sales and a 264% increase in the number of self-published books between 2018 and 2023—more authors are choosing this route. If you’ve finished your manuscript and are ready to see your work in print, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to print your own book.
Can You Print Your Own Book?
Absolutely! Printing your book is more straightforward than ever, thanks to user-friendly book printing companies that offer high-quality custom printing. These services often include options for distribution on big platforms like Amazon, making it simpler to reach a broad audience.
What Are the Costs of Printing Your Own Book?
The cost of printing a book varies widely based on several factors including page count, trim size, binding style, cover type, paper weight, and ink color and quality. For instance, a basic black-and-white paperback of fewer than 108 pages can cost as little as $2.30 per copy, while a more elaborate 300-page paperback might cost around $5 to $6 per copy. Deluxe options like hardcovers and color pages can significantly increase the cost. Some platforms also charge fees for uploading your manuscript, while others, like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), allow you to upload for free.
To mitigate costs, many authors choose print-on-demand services where books are printed only when an order is placed, eliminating the need for bulk printing and inventory management.
9 Steps to Print Your Own Book
From editing your manuscript to holding the final printed copy, here are the nine essential steps to print your own book.
1. Edit Your Text
Editing is a critical step. It’s beneficial to get feedback from multiple readers who can provide fresh perspectives and catch errors you might have overlooked. You can hire a professional editor or seek feedback from knowledgeable friends and colleagues. Whether focusing on high-level feedback or detailed proofreading, comprehensive editing improves the overall quality of your manuscript.
2. Select a Book Trim Size
Choose a trim size that fits the genre and style of your book. Novels, trade books, comic books, and children’s books all have standard sizes that you can use as guidelines. The trim size affects not only the look and feel of your book but also its cost, so choose carefully based on your needs and budget.
3. Choose Between Hardcover or Paperback
Paperback books are more cost-effective but less durable than hardcovers. Hardcovers, also known as trade cloth or hardback, offer a sense of professionalism and longevity. Consider your target audience and the book’s purpose when making this decision. Additionally, choose between glossy or matte finishes for the cover.
4. Pick Your Binding Style
The binding style influences your book’s durability and cost. Common options include saddle stitch for shorter books, wire-O for notebooks, perfect binding for paperbacks, and case wrap binding for hardcovers. Most authors prefer perfect binding for a professional appearance, or case wrap binding if producing a hardcover.
5. Consider Paper Types and Ink Options
Paper and ink choices are crucial. Standard black-and-white pages are cost-effective and suitable for novels and most non-illustrated books. For photo books or comics, invest in heavier paper with color printing for better quality. Consult industry standards if you’re unsure, and always consider how these decisions impact the overall look and feel of your book.
6. Choose Your Typeset
The right font and typesetting can make your book more readable and aesthetically pleasing. Aim for fonts and margins that enhance readability without distracting from the content. Looking at similar books can provide inspiration and guidelines. Proper typesetting is often unnoticeable to readers when done well, but glaring if done poorly.
7. Design Your Book Cover
An eye-catching cover is essential as it often forms a reader’s first impression. The cover design should reflect the book’s content and tone. If budget allows, hiring a professional graphic designer can be a worthwhile investment to ensure a high-quality result.
8. Prepare Your Files
Before printing, ensure your files are formatted correctly and are high resolution. Typically, you’ll need to submit separate PDF files for the cover and the manuscript, with images set at a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. Follow your chosen printing service’s guidelines closely to avoid issues.
9. Review Your Proof
Always request a proof copy before committing to a large print run. This trial version allows you to check for errors and make final adjustments. Once you’re satisfied with the proof, you can proceed with printing more copies and begin distribution.
3 Websites That Provide Print-On-Demand Services
Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
KDP is a user-friendly platform that caters mainly to ebooks but also offers paperback and hardcover printing. The service is ideal for beginners, providing tools to create a cover if you don't have design expertise. With KDP, you gain instant access to Amazon and Kindle marketplaces, and there's no need for bulk printing thanks to print-on-demand. However, KDP’s exclusivity clauses can limit your distribution channels.
IngramSpark
Ideal for authors seeking more customization, IngramSpark allows for diverse options in binding, trim sizes, and cover styles at a starting cost of $49 per title. IngramSpark books are noted for their professional look, with the added benefit of not being restricted by exclusivity agreements. Through IngramSpark, you can distribute your book to a broad array of retailers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Lulu
Lulu offers extensive customization for self-publishing, including various sizes, binding options, paper types, and cover finishes. Whether you choose bulk orders or print-on-demand, Lulu provides tools to calculate your costs and potentially save money. Lulu also offers distribution to a variety of channels, expanding your reach noticeably.
Conclusion
Printing your own book has never been easier or more affordable. With the right steps, you can transform your manuscript into a professional-quality book ready for readers. From meticulous editing to choosing the right printing service, every decision along the way shapes your final product. By leveraging services like KDP, IngramSpark, or Lulu, you can navigate self-publishing and bring your literary dreams to life.
Print Your Own Book FAQ
Can I print my book myself?
Yes, self-publishing platforms and book printing companies have made it accessible for anyone to print their own books.
How much does it cost to self-publish a book?
Costs vary widely. A simple black-and-white paperback can cost around $2.30 per copy, whereas a full-color hardcover photo book might cost closer to $30 per copy.
Where can I sell a self-published book?
You can sell your self-published book through multiple channels, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and platforms supported by your chosen printing service.
