Dreaming of writing a book? While you might envision your manuscript being scooped up by a big publishing house like Penguin Random House or Simon & Schuster, the reality is that you’ll need an agent to get your work in front of those publishers—and they accept only a tiny fraction of the manuscripts they receive.
Don’t let that discourage you. Self-publishing is a powerful alternative for getting your story into readers’ hands, and it’s an option that’s more and more accessible these days. In fact, some of today’s bestsellers, like The Martian and Fifty Shades of Grey, started as self-published books before inspiring blockbuster movie adaptations.
Ready to take control of your publishing journey? Here’s how to bypass the gatekeepers and print your own book on your own terms.
How to choose a printer for your book
Before browsing the list of self-publishing services, learn what to look for when selecting a publishing partner.
Research book printing options
Research means more than scanning a few price lists. It can get tricky because not all book printers disclose specs like ink types, machine capabilities, or environmental certifications.
Do your best to consider criteria like:
- Types of printing: Offset printing uses metal plates for high-volume runs, while digital printing works like a computer printer for smaller orders.
- Print methods: Print-on-demand services create books only when ordered. Bulk printing produces large quantities at once for a lower per-unit cost.
- Specializations: Different printers specialize in books like cookbooks, art books, or textbooks.
- Location: Local printers offer quick access and easy communication but cost more, while overseas printers provide lower prices but involve longer wait times and complex shipping.
One way to approach this step is by asking fellow authors. A printer might claim they are the best, but first-hand testimonials will tell a truer story. Work with a company with a known, reliable track record for your book format type or genre.
Evaluate print quality
Print quality isn’t just about how pretty the pages look. Top quality book printing services cover elements like:
- Paper stock: Thickness, finish, and sustainability certifications (e.g., FSC).
- Ink and color consistency: Checking proofs to see if colors are accurate and consistent throughout the run.
- Binding: Durability, spine alignment, and overall construction.
You also need to know what top quality means for you. If you’re printing a children’s book, tear-resistance and child-safe inks might matter as much as color vibrancy.
Even if your test copy looks perfect, printing quality can vary across your order, especially if the printer needs to adjust its machines during printing. Multiple proofs or references from past clients could be more telling than a single, possibly “cherry-picked” sample.
Cost considerations
Look beyond the price per unit. A straightforward quote comparison is not enough. Some printers can lure you in with low base prices, then tack on extra charges.
Printer A’s base cost might be lower, but if shipping or set-up fees are higher, the final bill could exceed Printer B’s quote. The cheapest quote may also have potential trade-offs like lower print quality and missing deadlines.
When reviewing custom book printing costs, consider:
- Base printing costs, setup fees, shipping, taxes, or tariffs (if printing abroad)
- The possibility of bulk discounts
- Any hidden costs like rush fees, proofing costs, or file conversion fees
Turnaround time
Turnaround time is how quickly the printer can complete and deliver your books.
Custom book printing turnaround time includes:
- Production time: Printing, binding, and packaging.
- Shipping and logistics: Customers or port delays can affect international shipments.
- Seasonal fluctuations: Some printers might have longer wait times during peak publishing season (generally September to November).
You might assume that speed is everything. However, rushing a job can lead to higher fees or mistakes. Regardless, always build in buffer time because printers can rarely guarantee 100% on-time performance.
Customer service and support
In custom book printing, customer support refers to communication and guidance. You want to work with a partner that responds quickly to questions and clarifies requirements. It’s also nice if they help with file formatting, cover design, and effects like foil stamping and embossing.
It’s hard to determine the level of support you’ll get upfront. Review sites often show only the most extreme cases, good or bad. To get a clearer understanding of your options, check references from trusted industry sources about your potential printers as well.
6 websites to help print your own book
Choosing a company to help you self-publish involves many factors. Here’s an overview of the top book printing services that can help you produce a high-quality book.
IngramSpark
Established in 2013, IngramSpark promises high-quality books indistinguishable from traditionally published ones.
IngramSpark offers:
- Customizable binding options, colors, laminate types, trim sizes, and cover styles
- Print-on-demand model
- A print calculator to estimate costs
- Distribution to bookstores, libraries, schools, and online marketplaces including Amazon
- A publisher compensation calculator for estimating earnings through their distribution channels
Consider your primary sales channels when choosing between IngramSpark and KDP:
- IngramSpark offers better royalty rates for books sold through its distribution network of bookstores and other sellers.
- KDP provides higher royalty rates for books sold on Amazon.
Lulu
Lulu stands out with its extensive options in custom book printing services and a Shopify integration.
Lulu’s book printing services offer:
- More than 3,000 book format options
- Templates or fully custom designs
- On-demand printing or bulk order discounts
- A price calculator to determine per-book costs
- Distribution through the Lulu Bookstore, online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and your own website
While Lulu may offer lower earnings from external marketplace and bookstore sales compared to KDP and IngramSpark, it provides unique advantages like:
- Ability to publish coil-bound and saddle-stitched books
- Seamless integration for selling directly through your website
Blurb
Blurb is a woman-founded service that offers a range of tools and services for both novice and experienced creators.
Blurb’s services include:
- A free, user-friendly book design software (BookWright) with customizable templates and layout suggestions
- Plug-ins for Adobe InDesign and Lightroom Classic
- Access to Ingram’s global retail network, including more than 39,000 retailers like Barnes & Noble
- A variety of book format options, including photo books, trade books, magazines, and notebooks
When you order 10 or more copies of your book from Blurb, you get a discount. For very large orders of more than 750 copies, Blurb can use a different printing method called offset printing, which saves you more money.
Since acquiring MagCloud in 2014, Blurb can also help folks make and share magazines to print or read online.
BookBaby
Originally inspired in 2009 by indie music distributor CD Baby, BookBaby offers support for every stage of the book printing process.
BookBaby’s book printing services provide:
- Line editing, copy editing, and proofreading
- Professional cover design and interior formatting
- Design services for print and ebooks
- Print-on-demand services
- Global distribution through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and the Ingram Network
- Advertising to help readers find your book
You need to pay BookBaby before it starts any editing or book design work, which can cost a bit at first. But after paying distribution fees, BookBaby lets authors keep all their sales money, unlike other companies that take a cut of each sale.
Barnes and Noble Press
B&N Press lets authors publish print and digital books through Barnes & Noble’s online store.
You can make ebooks, paperbacks, and hardcover books with dust jackets or printed covers. Books can be printed in color or black and white, and their page count must be between 18 and 800 pages long.
B&N Press also offers:
- Distribution through www.barnesandnoble.com, the B&N app, and NOOK e-reader devices
- 70% of each ebook sale when priced at 99¢ or higher
- Extra services like editing, cover design, and marketing
B&N Press is available to authors in select countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Ireland. Print books can only ship within the United States.
Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Launched in 2007 alongside the Kindle e-reader, KDP is a self-publishing platform for both digital and print books.
KDP’s beginner-friendly offerings include:
- A useful cover creator tool
- Print-on-demand services (no bulk buying or inventory management)
- Instant access to Amazon and Kindle’s marketplace (in exchange for a percentage of your book’s sale price)
- Free publishing (printing fees are deducted from royalties upon sale)
Royalty percentages vary based on book type (ebook, hardcover, or paperback) and whether you choose to sell exclusively with Amazon.
Examples of royalty percentages include:
- Paperback sold exclusively on Amazon: 60% royalty
- “Expanded Distribution” plan (available to bookstores and other booksellers): 40% royalty for non-Amazon sales
- Option to bulk order at print cost and sell on your own (upfront payment and self-managed shipping required): No royalty payments, but you keep all profits after upfront print costs
KDP is ideal for authors focusing on Amazon sales, but consider other options if you’re targeting bookstores or your own website with a print-on-demand model.
9 steps to print your own book
- Decide on a book printing method
- Select a trim size and format
- Pick your binding style
- Consider paper types and ink options
- Choose your typeset
- Design your book cover
- Prepare your files
- Select an ISBN
- Review your proof
Congratulations on finishing your book! While the hardest part might be behind you, there are still a few critical steps to bring your creation to life. Let’s walk through the book printing process in 9 straightforward steps.
1. Decide on a book printing method
There are two main book printing methods for self-publishing authors: offset printing and digital printing.
Offset printing is for making many books at once (hundreds or thousands). This type of book printing process initially costs more to set up, but it makes the cost of each book cheaper when you print lots of them. The quality is typically very good.
Digital printing (or print-on-demand) lets you print books one at a time, only when someone orders them. This is cheaper to start with and you don’t need to store your books.
2. Select a book trim size and format
Your book needs a size and style. Most books, like novels, use standard sizes (5.5 inches × 8.5 inches or 6 inches × 9 inches). Art books or children’s books are often bigger or use more irregular sizing conventions.
You can make your book hardcover or paperback. Hardcovers look fancy and last longer but cost more. Paperback books are cheaper and lighter to carry.
For the cover finish, you can pick glossy (shiny) or matte (smooth). Glossy works well for bright artwork, while matte finish gives a modern look.
3. Pick your binding style
Your binding style affects your book’s appearance, durability, and cost. Consider your book’s length when considering binding options.
Here are the most common types of binding options:
- Perfect-bound bindings: Found on most commercially published paperback books, featuring a flat glued spine.
- Case-wrap bindings: Used for hardcover books, with pages sewn or glued together and protected by a hard outer shell. This is the most durable option.
- Saddle-stitch bindings: Ideal for smaller books, where pages are stacked, stapled down the center, then folded. This is a cost-effective method.
- Coil-bound bindings: Allow books to lie flat when open, making them great for reports, presentations, and cookbooks. Book pages are hole-punched and bound with a metal or plastic spiral binding.
4. Consider paper types and ink options
Keep in mind most printers charge extra for internal color printing. You’ll likely have a choice of paper types, available in various weights and finishes.
If you’re unsure which to choose, consider industry standards as guidelines. For novels, standard black-and-white pages are reader-friendly and cost-effective. For photo books or graphic novels, opt for heavier paper and color printing to showcase your artwork.
5. Choose your typeset
Experiment with different options to ensure your custom book pages are easy to read. Reference similar books or guides for ideas, or check the front and back matter of your favorite commercially published books, as they sometimes note the typeface used.
Keep these best practices in mind:
- Font: Most books use a serif font (like Times New Roman) for body text, as the tiny decorative lines can enhance readability. Sans-serif fonts (like Helvetica) can add a modern touch and work well for headings.
- Letter and line spacing: Adequate spacing between letters (tracking) and lines (leading) improves readability, but too much spacing can increase your page count unnecessarily.
- Margins: Standardize your margins, and ensure your text doesn’t appear cramped on the page.
- Justification: Many novels use fully justified text for body copy. Consider using center-justified text for elements like chapter headings and captions.
6. Design your book cover
Don’t judge a book by its cover? In reality, potential readers often do. Your cover should be eye-catching and convey the book’s purpose and tone. If your budget allows, consider hiring a professional graphic designer to create a high-quality book cover that aligns with your genre and stands out from competition.
7. Prepare your files
To make your book look good, you’ll need to format it correctly. Use a program like Adobe InDesign or Microsoft Word to create your book, then save it as a PDF.
Leave enough space around the margins so nothing gets cut off when printing. If you have pictures, they should be high quality images (300 dpi) to look clear when printed.
8. Select an ISBN
Before printing, consider your book’s ISBN (International Standard Book Number). Publishers like Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and IngramSpark offer free ISBNs, but using these limits your book to their distribution networks.
For example, if you use a KDP-assigned ISBN, that version of your book is restricted to KDP’s distribution channels. Buying your own ISBN allows you to print the same version with multiple publishers, potentially giving you access to a wider range of marketplaces. However, even with a free ISBN, you retain the intellectual property rights to your book.
9. Review your proof
Always order a test copy of your book before printing more or selling it online.
Check that everything looks right: The colors should be accurate, the paper should feel good, and all the text should be in the right place.
Make sure the cover looks perfect too. The front, spine, and back should all line up properly.
Understanding the different types of book printing techniques
Letterpress printing
Letterpress is an old way of printing that started in the 1400s. It works by pressing raised letters and designs into paper, leaving a mark you can feel with your fingers.
People mostly use letterpress for special projects because it has a handmade, artistic look. It’s popular for wedding invitations, poetry chapbooks, and other types of fancy books or stationery because each print has a unique, textured feel. The downside of letterpress is that its process takes longer and costs more than modern printing methods.
Some key things to know about letterpress printing:
- You can feel the print with your fingers because it makes small indents in the paper.
- It’s done by hand on special printing presses, often using old equipment.
- It works best with simple designs and just one or two colors.
- Each print takes time to make, so it’s usually saved for special projects.
Offset lithography
Offset printing is a modern way of printing that’s great for making lots of copies. It’s called “offset” because the ink doesn’t go straight onto the paper. It first goes into a rubber sheet and then onto the paper.
The process uses water and oil-based ink. They naturally push away from each other, which helps keep the printing clean and precise.
This type of book printing is best when you need:
- Large quantities (like books or magazines)
- Very clear, colorful, high-quality images (like for graphic novels or photo books)
- Professional-looking results
The main drawback of offset printing is that it’s expensive to get started. You have to make special metal plates first. But once everything is set up, it’s cheaper per page than most other types of printing. That’s why it’s used for magazines, textbooks, and catalogs where you need thousands of copies.
Digital printing
Digital printing is a newer way to print. It doesn’t use metal plates or stamps. Books are printed directly from a computer file.
There are two main types of digital printing:
- Laser printing, which uses a powder called toner. It’s faster and better for text-heavy documents.
- Inkjet printing, which sprays tiny dots of ink. It’s ideal for photos and color accuracy, but takes time to dry.
Digital printing is perfect when you:
- Need something printed quickly
- Only want a small number of copies
- Want to personalize each copy
The downside is that digital printing gets expensive if you need lots of copies. It’s also not quite as precise with colors as other printing methods. But for most regular printing jobs—like books, brochures, or business materials—it works great. That’s why it’s popular with self-published authors and businesses needing quick, small-print batches.
Print-on-demand
Print-on-demand (POD) book services are popular for authors and small publishers. Instead of printing hundreds or thousands of books at once and storing them in a warehouse, a POD service prints and dropships the book when someone orders it.
Here’s how POD book services work:
- You upload your book file to a service like IngramSpark.
- When someone orders your book, it gets printed and shipped directly to them.
- You don’t have to handle any book printing, storage, or shipping yourself, which saves you tons of time and money compared to other bookselling methods.
With POD services, authors can publish books and sell them worldwide without spending thousands of dollars upfront or worrying about making room for inventory storage.
What are the costs of printing your own book?
The cost of printing your book depends on several factors:
- Page count
- Trim size (the height and width of you book)
- Binding style
- Cover type
- Paper quality
- Black and white or color ink
- Print run
For example, a black and white paperback of fewer than 108 pages can cost as little as $2.30 per book, while a standard 300-page paperback runs closer to $5 per book with KDP. Larger trim sizes, hardcovers, and color ink increase costs. An 8.5-inch by 11-inch 100-page photo book with a hardcover, premium color, and the highest quality paper costs $29.69 on Lulu.
Pro tip: Some platforms offer discounts for bulk orders, so you can save money by ordering a larger quantity at once.
Keep in mind that beyond initial publishing costs, there may be additional expenses when selling your book. For instance, if you self-publish a paperback with KDP and sell it on Amazon, you’ll keep 60% of the sale price, minus the printing cost.
How to sell books on your own ecommerce store
Congratulations! You’ve crafted the perfect book, from font selection to cover design. Now it’s time to sell your book online.
While tapping into new audiences through distributors like Barnes & Noble is valuable, don’t overlook the power of selling through your own website.
An online store helps you establish brand ownership and build community around your work. Plus, you get full control over the buying experience, from product presentation to customer service.
Example of indie book ecommerce store
See how Morgana Best sells her paranormal cozy mysteries online.
From the moment you land on her website, a striking illustration of a black cat with glowing eyes against a moonlit backdrop sets the paranormal mood. This same imagery carries through her logo and branding. It’s clear—if you’re looking for witchy mysteries, you’re in the right place.
Want an ebook? Audiobook? Large print? Each format has its own section on Morgana’s website—a smart move for reaching different reader preferences. She’s even branched into French markets with a "“FRANÇAIS” button.
When selling in your own store, you keep a larger portion of each sale compared to traditional distribution channels. You can bundle books with exclusive experiences or create fun promotion packages you couldn’t through major retailers.
Once your book is available on your website, develop a strategy to promote it online.
Consider these marketing tactics:
- Leveraging social media promotion
- Partnering with book influencers
- Starting an email newsletter for fans of your genre
By combining the reach of major distributors with the control of your own ecommerce store, you can maximize your book’s potential and build a direct relationship with your readers.
Common mistakes to avoid when printing your own book
Choosing the wrong trim size
Picking the wrong size (or “trim size”) for your book can be costly. Standard sizes are cheaper and look more professional.
For example, a novel usually works best at 5.5 by 8.5 inches, while textbooks might be 6 by 9 inches. Using odd sizes can increase your book printing costs and make your book look awkward on a shelf.
Overlooking the importance of ISBNs
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is important for selling your book. It’s how bookstores and libraries track and order it.
New authors sometimes skip getting their own ISBN, which can limit where they can sell their book. While some services offer free ISBNs, owning your own gives you more control and makes your book look more professionally appealing.
Ignoring printing specifications
Printers need specific file setups to print your book correctly. Things like margins, paper type, and file format must match their requirements exactly. Taking time to understand and follow these specifications will save you from printing problems later and help you build stronger relationships with printers.
Underestimating printing costs
Printing a book involves more than just the basic printing cost. Don’t forget about editing, cover design, shipping, and marketing costs. Many authors get surprised when these extra costs add up. Budget at least 20% extra for unexpected expenses.
Failing to review proof copies thoroughly
This is like sending an email without proofreading, except much more expensive. Always order a proof copy and check everything: the cover, every page, the spine text, and even how the book feels in your hands.
Take your time with this step. It’s your last chance to catch errors before your book goes public.
Read more
- How To Start a Business: 11 Steps To Launch Your Company
- How To Make Candles: Our Guide to DIY Candle Making
- What Is Product Positioning? Definition and Guide
- What Is Direct Marketing? Definition and Guide
- What Is a Corporation? Definition and Guide
- What Is Manufacturing? Definition and Guide
- What Is Advertising? Definition and Guide
- What Is a Barcode? Definition and Guide
Print your own book FAQ
Can I print my book myself?
Yes, you can. With the right resources and book printing companies, the self-publishing process can be both straightforward and affordable.
How much does it cost to self-publish a book?
Printing costs can range from $2 to $30 per copy, depending on factors like size, length, and print quality. For a 300-page paperback novel, expect to spend $5 to $6 per copy.
Where can I sell a self-published book?
Self-published books can be sold almost anywhere. Many custom book printing companies can help distribute your publication to libraries and popular websites such as Barnes & Noble. You can also sell directly through your own website or at local events.
Do I need to copyright my book if I self-publish?
Your book is automatically protected by copyright as soon as you write it down. However, registering it with the Copyright Office gives you extra protection and makes it easier to deal with copycats.
What is a normal book size?
Most novels and memoirs are 5.5 inches by 8.5 inches or 6 inches by 9 inches, which is about the size of a typical paperback you’d find in a bookstore. Bigger books like textbooks or art books usually go with 7 inches by 10 inches to fit more pictures and diagrams.
Why is it important to follow printer specifications?
Printers need specific file setups to print your book correctly. Things like margins, paper type, and file format must match their requirements exactly. Taking time to understand and follow these specifications will save you from printing problems later and help you build stronger relationships with printers.
What are common mistakes in self-publishing?
- Underestimating printing costs: Printing a book involves more than just the basic printing cost. Don’t forget about editing, cover design, shipping, and marketing costs. Many authors get surprised when these extra costs add up. Budget at least 20% extra for unexpected expenses.
- Failing to review proof copies thoroughly: This is like sending an email without proofreading, except much more expensive. Always order a proof copy and check everything: the cover, every page, the spine text, and even how the book feels in your hands. Take your time with this step. It’s your last chance to catch errors before your book goes public.
