Book Sizes, Page Counts & Format FAQs

Can I print a custom trim size, or do I need to choose a standard size?
Yes, we can make books in almost any size. Please note that with offset printing, we print on larger sheets, so the better the book size uses the sheet, the lower the cost usually is. This affects the number of offset plates used and the amount of paper waste. If you want to compare sizes, you can use our calculators to see how the pricing changes.

How do page count rules differ for hardcover, perfect bound, and board books?
For hardcover and softcover books, it works best when the interior page count can be divided by 4. For board books, the interior page count should be divided by 2.

How do I choose between hardcover, perfect bound, and board book for the same project?
Start with the audience, budget, and how you plan to sell the book. Hardcover is the fancier version and usually sells at a higher price, while paperback is the more economical version for carrying the same content. In some cases, we can also split the order into both hardcover and paperback using the same book block, so you can take advantage of the combined quantity tier. If the project is for children and you are deciding between board book and hardcover, our format comparison guide is a good place to start.

What size works best for a children's picture book?
There is no single best size for a children’s picture book. From our experience, a size around 10 x 10 is a very good choice. Another format to consider is a landscape size, such as 10 x 8, because when reading to children, the book can sit more comfortably on the lap.