Printing customised books allows for tailored solutions, both for large and small print runs. Smaller publishers, self-publishing authors in literary or academic fields—especially teachers or researchers—and some institutions regularly use this service. Are you interested in this topic? Consider the following key points.
How to self-publish your book?
Writing, illustrating and publishing a book is a complex but rewarding process. Print-on-demand book printing makes it possible to produce small quantities without sacrificing quality or physical characteristics. It is also possible to print paperback books in different formats.
To achieve the best results, choosing the right printing system is essential. There are two main options:
Digital printing for books (print on demand)
Ideal for short print runs and customised books. Today, digital printing offers high quality and allows the use of different paper types and finishes such as stamping or selective varnish. Suitable for quantities ranging from a single copy up to approximately 200–250 units.
Offset printing for books
If you require larger quantities (from approximately 250 copies), offset printing is the most suitable option. It provides high-quality results comparable to digital printing in terms of paper and finishes, while also allowing direct colour printing (Pantone). It is commonly used for text books, catalogues, art books and carefully designed publications.
What is the ideal format for a book?
In publishing, creativity has no limits, nor fixed sizes. However, the most common formats include:
– Pocket books: 148 × 210 mm (A5), 170 × 240 mm and 152 × 230 mm
– Poetry books: 120 × 180 mm and A5 are very common
– Children’s books and photo books: 210 × 210 mm and 210 × 297 mm (A4)
– Textbooks: A4
What type of paper is used for books?
Today, a wide range of paper types can be used, from standard to premium options. For book interiors, offset paper is commonly used, available in white or off-white tones, typically with a weight between 70 and 120 gsm.
Coated paper can also be used, offering a smoother and more refined finish, ideal for books with vivid images and higher contrast. In this case, selecting the right weight is essential—usually between 90 and 200 gsm—and choosing between gloss or matte finishes. These decisions are key to the final result of a printed book.
Types of book binding
To complete the process, selecting the right binding is essential to achieve the desired final result.
Options include perfect binding (softcover or hardcover). For greater durability, sewn binding can also be used with either softcover or hardcover formats.
Hardcover binding provides a more elegant and premium finish, while softcover makes the book more practical and easier to handle on a daily basis. The choice depends on your needs and expectations.
Print-on-demand books: how much does it cost to print a book?
Current technology allows books to be printed on demand—even from a single copy. However, the unit cost becomes more competitive from runs of 25–50 copies, depending on the book’s specifications.
Factors such as size, number of pages, colour or black and white printing, paper quality and special finishes will determine the final cost of the project.
The best approach is to work with a trusted book printing provider in Barcelona. At Artyplan, we help you define the most suitable option for printing your customised books, aligning with your needs and budget.
