12 Book Printing Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to bringing your literary masterpiece to life, the process of book printing can be both thrilling and challenging. However, months of hard work can quickly turn into costly reprints and ruin an author’s credibility if small oversights are not addressed.

Fortunately, most printing errors are entirely preventable, especially if you work with the right professional printer. In this article, we will explore 12 of the most common book printing mistakes, why they occur so frequently, and shed light on how to avoid them for a flawless publication.

12 Common Book Printing Mistakes

Skimping on print pre-production details can turn an otherwise brilliant launch into an expensive disaster. Even minor technical oversights compromise your book’s shelf presence, alienate readers, and result in costly reprint runs. Spotting these mistakes early is the single best way to protect both your budget and your professional credibility.

1. Ignoring Print Submission Guidelines

Before preparing your book files, check what your printer needs to begin production. Requirements vary by provider, so make sure you have the following details covered:

• Accepted File Formats: Confirm which formats your printer accepts for the book’s interior and cover. A print-ready PDF may be required, even if you created the files in another application.

• Project Specifications: Provide details such as trim size, page count, print quantity, and binding type so your printer knows what you’re ordering.

• File Preparation: Find out whether the interior and cover should be submitted separately, and whether the files need specific dimensions or bleed.

• File Naming: Follow the printer’s naming conventions to distinguish the cover, interior, and revised versions.

• File Submission Methods: Verify how the printer accepts files, whether through an upload portal, email, or file-sharing service.

2. Bad Formatting

Bad formatting refers to the improper arrangement of text, images, and other elements within a book. This could include inconsistent font styles, spacing issues, or unprofessional layout choices.

Authors or publishers might rush through the formatting process, overlooking its importance in the final presentation. Inexperience with design principles or the assumption that content alone is sufficient can lead to bad formatting.

3. Sending a PDF Without Embedded Fonts

If your PDF contains fonts that aren’t embedded, the printer’s system may substitute them with other typefaces. This can be an issue if your book uses custom or less common fonts.

Font embedding stores the font data needed to display and print text correctly within your PDF. An “embedded subset” contains only the characters used in your document rather than the entire font, which is generally better for printing.

In Adobe Acrobat, for example, you can check font embedding by opening Document Properties and selecting the Fonts tab. Each listed font should indicate “Embedded” or “Embedded Subset”. If a font isn’t embedded, review your PDF export settings and generate a new file using a print-ready preset recommended by your printer.

Note: Some fonts have licensing restrictions that prevent embedding. If you can’t embed a font, check its permissions and ask your printer how to proceed. After exporting a revised PDF, check the Fonts tab again before submitting your file.

4. Uploading Low-Resolution Cover Artwork

An image that looks clear on your screen may not retain the same sharpness in print. For best results, cover artwork should generally have an effective resolution of 300 PPI at the intended print size, unless your printer specifies otherwise. For example:

• 5 × 8-inch Cover: 1,500 × 2,400 pixels
• 6 × 9-inch Cover: 1,800 × 2,700 pixels
• 8.5 × 11-inch Cover: 2,550 × 3,300 pixels

These pixel dimensions apply to the front-cover area before adding bleed. Full-wrap covers need additional space for the back cover, spine, and bleed. Because spine width varies with page count and paper stock, use your printer’s template to determine the required file dimensions.

If your image falls short of the required pixel dimensions, enlarging it in an editing program won’t restore missing detail and may leave it looking soft or pixelated. Whenever possible, use the original high-resolution file instead of a smaller version exported for web use.

Keep text and logos within the printer’s designated safe area. Artwork should extend into the bleed area as specified by the printer, allowing for slight variations during trimming and preventing unprinted edges on the finished cover.

5. Skipping Proofreading

Skipping proofreading involves neglecting the thorough review of the manuscript for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. This can result in typos and other language-related mistakes appearing in the final print.

Tight deadlines or budget constraints may push individuals to bypass proofreading, assuming that a quick review is enough. Additionally, overconfidence in one’s writing abilities might lead to the underestimation of the need for a fresh set of eyes.

6. Low-Quality Printing

Choosing a low-quality printing service can result in prints with faded colors, uneven ink distribution, or poor paper quality, ultimately diminishing the overall visual appeal of the book.

Budget considerations may lead authors or publishers to opt for cheaper printing options without fully understanding the potential impact on the final product. Spending time researching reputable printing companies can help you avoid this mistake.

7. Inconsistencies

Inconsistencies in a book can include variations in font sizes, spacing, or margins that disrupt the visual flow. These inconsistencies can create a disjointed reading experience.

Rushing through the formatting process or overlooking the importance of maintaining a consistent style can result in these inconsistencies. No attention to detail and a failure to review the manuscript comprehensively contribute to this mistake.

8. Choosing the Wrong Paper Stock

The paper you choose affects how your book’s text and images reproduce, as well as its overall thickness and feel. Common options include:

• Glossy paper enhances color and contrast in photography and art books.
• Matte paper reduces glare while providing a smooth finish for catalogs and illustrated books.
• Uncoated paper offers a natural feel suited to novels, journals, and text-heavy books.
• Lightweight paper keeps longer books thinner and lighter, but may allow text to show through if too thin.
• Heavyweight paper provides a sturdier feel for covers and presentation pages.

When comparing paper stocks, consider how much of your book consists of text, photographs, or illustrations. A novel with hundreds of pages has different requirements from a photography book with full-page images. If your book combines both, ask your printer which stock can accommodate the text and image reproduction you need.

Also consider the finished book’s thickness and handling. Heavier paper adds bulk across multiple pages, which can affect the book’s overall size and weight. If you’re unsure which stock suits your project, ask your printer for samples so you can compare the available options before placing your order.

9. Ordering Exactly the Number of Copies You Need

Ordering only the number of books you expect to distribute can leave you short if last-minute requests come in or copies are damaged during handling. Estimate your print run based on your planned distribution, expected audience, and any additional copies you might need for events, promotional activities, or future orders.

As a rough planning guide, ordering 10% more than you expect to distribute will give you reasonable flexibility. Consider your budget, available storage space, and how easily you can arrange another print run when deciding how many extras to order.

10. Forgetting to Test Run the Print

Neglecting a test run means skipping the step of printing a small batch to identify and address any unexpected issues before the full print run.

Tight schedules or a desire to save time and resources may lead individuals to skip the test run. Underestimating the potential for printing problems can also contribute to this oversight.

11. Picking the Wrong Binding

Selecting an inappropriate binding style can impact the durability and functionality of the book. Different types of content and usage scenarios may call for specific binding methods.

Lack of knowledge about the various binding options or overlooking the importance of matching the binding style to the book’s purpose can result in this mistake.

12. Incorrect Color Settings

Incorrect color settings involve failing to establish accurate specifications for colors in the printing process, leading to variations between the digital and printed versions.

Failing to communicate with the printing service, assuming that digital colors will translate accurately to print, or a general oversight of color settings can contribute to this mistake. Misunderstandings about color reproduction in the printing process are also common.

Why Book Printing Mistakes Are So Common

The journey from manuscript to printed book is a complex one, involving multiple stages and careful attention to detail. Unfortunately, certain factors contribute to the prevalence of printing mistakes:

• Tight deadlines can force publishers and authors to overlook crucial steps in the printing process, leading to errors that could have been easily avoided.

• Cost considerations might lead to compromises in printing quality, resulting in subpar outcomes.

• Inexperience in the publishing industry can contribute to oversights, as those involved may not be aware of potential pitfalls.

The good news is that you can still have a quality book printed even with tight deadlines, budget constraints, and limited experience. Contact us to learn more.

Benefits of Working With Professional Book Printers

To avoid the pitfalls mentioned above, collaborating with professional book printers offers several advantages:

• Consistent Quality: Professional printers have the expertise and equipment to ensure consistent, high-quality prints.

• More Options: A reputable printing service provides a range of options for paper quality, binding styles, and finishing touches, allowing for a customized final product.

• Expertise: Professional printers bring years of experience to the table, offering valuable insights and guidance throughout the printing process.

Let Bestype Help With Your Book Printing Needs

For authors and publishers seeking a reliable partner in the printing process, Bestype is here to assist.

With a commitment to quality, a wide array of printing options, and a team of experienced professionals, Bestype ensures your book is brought to life with precision and care. Contact us today to discuss your book printing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of books can Bestype print?

Bestype prints a range of book projects, including self-published books, art and photography books, portfolios, graphic novels, cookbooks, and corporate publications. Whether you’re preparing a creative project or a business publication, you can discuss your requirements with the team.

How much does it cost to print a book?

The cost depends on factors such as book dimensions, page count, print quantity, printing method, and finishing requirements. Bestype provides custom quotes for book printing services in NYC based on your project’s specifications.

Should I choose digital or offset printing?

Digital printing is often suitable for shorter runs and projects that need a quick turnaround. Offset printing can be more economical for larger quantities, depending on the specifications. Bestype offers both methods and can help you assess which suits your project.

Can I discuss my book project with Bestype before ordering?

Yes. You can schedule a consultation at Bestype’s book printing in NYC to discuss your project and explore printing options with the team. You can also submit a quote request online and attach your files for review. This gives the team a starting point for understanding your needs and recommending suitable options.