If you're reading this, you're not just flirting with the idea of publishing — you're actually doing it. Maybe this is your debut novel, your memoir, a business book to help cement your credibility, or even a quirky poetry or art book that won't leave you alone until it's out in the world. No matter which genre you choose, the same question is gnawing on you:
How do I choose the right format for paperback book printing?
On the surface, paperback book printing seems easy, until you see words like "saddle-stitched," "bleed settings," and "trim size." You just want a beautiful, legit-looking book that looks and reads professionally. All of these options? Too overwhelming.
Fortunately, that's what OnPress Book Printing is here for. With OnPress, paperback book printing makes sense. Here's what you need to know.
Start with your genre
Did you know that the genre of your book affects the physical look of it? It's true! Different audiences expect different things when they hold a book in their hands. For example:
- Fiction, romance, or general nonfiction are usually 5.5" x 8.5" or 6" x 9"
- Memoir or personal development is 6" x 9" — a classic choice
- Poetry usually comes in a smaller trim size like 5" x 8" or something square feels more intimate
- Kids' books are 8.5" x 8.5" or 8.5" x 11" to make room for art
- Workbooks are designed to go big at 7" x 10" or 8.5" x 11" so they're easy to write in
If you're not sure, choose a size like 6"x 9" which is U.S. trade paperback size.
Choosing your binding, paper, and cover finish
Most paperback books are printed with perfect bound binding. This is the typical paperback spine with glue and it's by far the most common type of binding. It looks great, stacks well, and holds anywhere from 24—800+ pages.
Paper is the next choice you'll need to make, and it's all about the sensation you want people to enjoy when they touch your book. Not only does paper affect the feel of the book itself, but it also impacts:
- The weight of the book
- The cost of printing
- How transparent the pages are
- Whether or not your ink bleeds through or sits crisp on the page
For most fiction and nonfiction books, 60# or 70# uncoated white or cream paper is standard. If you're printing full-color illustrations, poems, or art, you may want to go heavier or glossier.
What about your cover finish? At OnPress Book Printing, we offer three distinct types:
- Matte is modern, smooth, and elegant. It's a non-glossy finish without luster.
- Gloss makes colors pop and shine. It's ideal for kids' books, personal development books, and photography books, as it truly brings out the brilliance and shine of the cover.
- Soft touch (velvet matte) is a high-end luxury cover finish. It's best for people who are looking to build a brand with their looks and want to communicate elegance and esteem.
Keep in mind that depending on your paper stock, you'll need to calculate your spine width. If you want your name on the spine (and why wouldn't you?) you'll need to reach a minimum page count. You can use our helpful calculator to get a free quote based on your book size, page count, trim, and other options. Check out our full explanation of trim sizes, paper, and binding to see which paper type will match what you need.
If you're concerned about page limits, you should know that OnPress Book Printing can handle books up to 840 pages (depending on size), although specific trims like 12" x 9" have tighter limits.
Preparing your files for the best possible printing
Last but not least, it's crucial to prepare your files for the best possible printing. Fortunately, you don't have to be a graphics guru or a printing professional to get this right. OnPress Book Printing offers a free prepress guide with bleed and margin specs as well as guidance for designing the spine of your book.
Ready for printing? Your next steps.
You'll be glad to know that at OnPress, we ship fast. Paperbacks can be ready in as little as 2 business days, depending on the quantity you order. We also have a price match promise if you find a better price from another U.S.-based printer.
When you're ready to get started with your paperback printing, follow these simple steps:
- Browse trim sizes on our website that match your book's genre
- Use perfect binding (the most traditional, versatile option)
- Pick a paper weight — the amount of text and images in your book will help you decide this
- Choose the cover finish for the type of tactile feel and eye-catching style you want your book to have
- Design your files properly using our templates
- Know the maximum number of pages of your book
- Check turnaround times and pricing
Don't forget to order at least one proof copy. Seeing it, holding it in your hands, and actually savoring the final result is what makes paperback book printing all worthwhile. Finally, all of your hard work, all those late nights, all those edits have made it all worth it. You've gone from "Someday, I'll write a book" to seeing it in people's hands.
If you still have questions, the OnPress team is here to help. We will do a prepress review at no cost before your book hits the presses to make sure everything is formatted exactly the way you expect. We're happy to answer any questions you may have and are ready to help you create an affordable, high-quality book in a short timeframe. Contact us today to get started!