How should you choose the page size?
A novel needs comfortable text lines, a reference book needs room for tables, and an album needs space for photographs. Check the most demanding pages before settling on dimensions. Reducing type size simply to meet a page target can compromise readability.
Specify the finished width and height in millimetres when requesting a quote. If you are unsure, send a representative chapter and several images. Explain whether readers will use the book at a desk, carry it around or receive it as a gift.
Which paper suits the content?
Uncoated paper
This is worth considering for text-led publications and where the feel of the page matters. White and cream shades create different reading experiences, so examine physical samples.
Coated paper
A surface coating affects image reproduction and can suit illustrated publications. Compare matt and gloss finishes in the light in which the book will be read.
Weight and thickness
Paper weight, measured in grams per square metre, does not directly describe sheet thickness. Opacity, stiffness and bulk also affect the book, its spine and delivery weight.
Which binding should you consider?
Saddle stitching uses staples through folded sheets and suits shorter publications. Paperback books may have glued or sewn book blocks. Hardcover describes the rigid cover, while the construction inside also affects durability and opening.
For an image running across facing pages, allow for the binding near the spine. How well a hardcover opens depends on the whole binding construction.
How I work on these publications. Book typesetting starts at PLN 200 net per publishing unit, approximately 40,000 characters including spaces for continuous prose. Print preparation is generally included when I typeset the book; manufacturing is quoted separately.
Digital or offset printing?
Digital production avoids the plate preparation used in conventional offset printing and is particularly useful for short runs. There is no universal quantity at which offset becomes cheaper. Compare the same specification using actual production quotes.
Discuss a physical sample when colour or paper choice is important. A home printout can help assess type size and margins, but it is not automatically a reliable colour reference. Reprints also need checking if the paper or book specification changes.
How many copies should you order?
Count committed recipients, promotional copies, publisher obligations and realistic sales before adding a reserve. A lower unit price can still mean a larger total investment and more storage. Reprinting may be preferable to holding uncertain stock.
Compare paper, page count, binding, quantity, packing and delivery on the same basis. Keep typesetting and printing costs separate; the pricing guide explains the distinction. For image-led books, see catalogues and albums.
How can printing and delivery be arranged?
I work with five trusted printing partners and can arrange delivery, including abroad. The studio invoices the printing, so you settle the whole order with one supplier. Production and transport dates are confirmed for the individual order. The book launch date must allow time after final file approval.
Agree who approves the final file and record the accepted specification. My portfolio shows different publication formats.
Frequently asked questions
Choose dimensions that support comfortable type and line length. Review a real passage before deciding.
Consider it for frequent use or a commemorative edition. Compare its weight and cost with a suitable paperback specification.
Start with known demand and a realistic reserve. Ask for alternative quantities if sales are uncertain.
Yes, I can arrange printing and delivery through my five printing partners. Quotes are free and prepared within 1-2 business days based on the information supplied.