Book printing
Physical copies that look as good as you imagined
Holding your printed book should be a proud moment. We help you choose print specifications, prepare files to your printer's requirements and review proofs before copies are produced.
- Advice on print-on-demand versus short-run printing
- Trim size, paper and binding recommendations
- Print-ready interior and cover files
- Proof review before production
Let’s Get Started!
Overview
Choosing how your book is printed
There are two main routes to printed books. Print-on-demand produces copies as they are ordered, avoiding upfront inventory. Short-run or offset printing produces a batch of copies at once, which can suit events, bookshops and direct sales.
We explain the trade-offs, help you choose specifications such as trim size, paper and binding, and prepare files that meet your printer's technical requirements. Printing itself is carried out by the printer or platform you choose.
What's included
Printing support we provide
Specification advice
Guidance on trim size, paper colour and weight, binding and finish.
File preparation
Interior and cover files built to your printer's specifications, including bleed and colour settings.
Proof review
Checking digital and physical proofs for layout, colour and binding issues.
Printer coordination
Communication with your chosen printer about files and specifications.
Print-on-demand vs short-run printing
| Consideration | Print-on-demand | Short-run / offset |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Low — copies printed as ordered | Higher — you pay for a batch |
| Inventory | None to store | You store and ship copies |
| Cost per copy | Usually higher | Usually lower at larger quantities |
| Best for | Online sales and testing demand | Events, bookshops and direct sales |
Workflow
How printing projects work
Plan
We discuss your goals and recommend a printing route and specifications.
Prepare
Print-ready files are produced to the printer's requirements.
Proof
Proofs are reviewed and any issues corrected before production.
Who it's for
Is this service right for you?
Book Printing Services is a good fit for:
- Authors ordering copies for events or launches
- Authors selling directly to readers
- Authors choosing between print routes
- Authors with illustrated or colour books
Not sure this is the right service?
Many authors need a combination of services, or a different starting point than they expected. Tell us where your book is today and we will recommend the best next step.
Book Formatting
Professional interior layout for print and ebook editions, with consistent typography.
Learn moreBook Cover Design Services
Genre-aware covers designed to read clearly as a thumbnail and on the shelf.
Learn moreBook Publishing Services
Take a finished manuscript through preparation, production and release with one coordinated team.
Learn moreBook Illustration Services
Custom illustrations for children's books, covers, chapter openers and non-fiction diagrams.
Learn moreFAQ
Questions about Book Printing Services
Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll answer your questions directly.
Ask a questionDo you print the books yourselves?
We prepare files and coordinate with the print-on-demand platform or printer you choose. The printing is carried out by that printer.
Can I order a single copy first?
With print-on-demand, ordering a proof copy is usually straightforward and strongly recommended.
Why does my colour look different in print?
Screens and paper display colour differently. We prepare files with appropriate colour settings and recommend reviewing a physical proof.
Planning a print run or print edition?
Tell us about your book and how you plan to sell it.