Printing FAQs - Your Most Popular Questions Answered
Our printing FAQ is full of the most commonly asked questions we get relating to anything print. We are sure most of your questions will be covered in the FAQ below.
Have a question relating to a specific service? Contact us directly to find out more.
Questions about design
Do you accept Microsoft Word files?
All files should be sent to us as press-ready PDF files. If you are unable to send files in this format then a word file for your manuscript can be sent. We will convert this file into a PDF file and send it back to you for checking. If you are happy then we can proceed to print.
Do you offer typesetting and design?
We can help with typesetting and design. Please contact us at info@imprint.co.uk.
What size should I design my spine?
Your spine size will vary depending on what paper you have and how many pages you have in your book. You can use our online spine calculator to get an accurate measurement for your book. Please visit - Spine Size Calculator.
What file format should I supply my files in?
Your text file and your cover file needs to be supplied as press-ready PDF files. If you are having difficulties in converting your files into this format please contact us. Most cover design software can create an accurate jpeg file that we can convert to a PDF.
What size should my book margins be?
This is down to personal preference and also what size and how many pages your book has. It will be best to have a look at similar books in your genre at or near your page count and decide from those books.
What is bleed?
Bleed is printing that goes beyond the edge of where the sheet will be trimmed. In other words, the bleed is the area to be trimmed off. The bleed is the part on the side of a document that gives us a small amount of space to account for movement of the paper, and design inconsistencies.
What happens if I lose my files
If you lose your files please send us an email. We keep all files on our system indefinitely unless we have been instructed to delete them. We are more than happy to send any files to you.
Can graphics be included in my book?
Absolutely, we can print any text, images, graphics and illustrations etc. Please make sure any text has it’s fonts embedded.
Does it cost extra for graphics / illustrations?
There is no extra cost for any images, graphics and illustrations etc. The only thing to remember is if your page has any amount of colour on then you will need to count this as a printed colour page.
What does artwork mean?
We use the term artwork for any press-ready PDF file that is sent to us. Text files, cover files, plate sections, foil PDF’s etc.
Do I need blank pages and if so, where should I put them?
You may not need blank pages but it may be a good idea to put some blank pages in your book after title pages and the copyright etc. It is best to have a look at other books in a similar genre and see what you like and what you do not like. Please note that the number of pages in your book will have to be an even number and we may add a blank page at the end of your book to achieve this.
How do I calculate how many pages my book will be?
It will be difficult to calculate the number of pages your book will have until it is in its final form. Please make sure your book is formatted and ready to print before working out the spine width and getting any design completed.
Do you have templates I can use?
We do have several templates you can use for your internal book file. Please visit out book templates page. Please note, we are currently updating this page and will be adding more templates soon.
How do I create a PDF file?
PDF files can be created from within Microsoft Word and most other software that you will have created your book in. If you are having troubles creating a PDF, please contact us to discuss your options as we may be able to convert the file for you.
What size do I make the cover?
The size you make the cover will depend on the size of your book and the number of printed pages your book has. Please visit our templates page to work out what size you should design your books cover.
How do I change the book size?
This will depend on the software you are using to create your book. Please contact us to discuss any technical requirements.
Do you offer cover design?
We can help with cover design, please contact us at info@imprint.co.uk.
Can you convert my file to PDF?
Possibly, depending on the software that you have used. Please contact us for more information.
What are embedded fonts?
Font embedding is the inclusion of font files inside an electronic document. When fonts are embedded into your PDF document and you send your file to somebody else, if they don’t have the fonts installed on their computer then the font information will be pulled from the PDF document. If you do not have your fonts embedded in your document and you send your PDF to someone who doesn’t have that particular font, then their computer will try and use a ‘similar’ font.
You must make sure all fonts are embedded in your document.
How do I embed fonts?
Embedding fonts is different depending on which software you use. Below is a simple guide to help you embed your fonts in Microsoft Word. If you need help with other software please either contact us or look on our book templates page.
Microsoft Word
- Click the File tab and then click Options (it's near the bottom left corner of the window).
- In the left column, select the Save tab.
- At the bottom, under Preserve fidelity when sharing this presentation, select the Embed fonts in the file checkbox.
- Leaving that checkbox blank increases the file size, but is best for allowing others to edit the document and keep the same font.
- Selecting Embed only the characters used in the presentation reduces the file size but limits the editing of the file using the same font.
- Click OK.
Will you check my artwork?
We check your text file and cover files for several different things.
- Check over your order to confirm price and specifications.
- Check cover size including spine size and bleeds.
- Confirm the number of pages that matches the order.
- Check for colour pages.
- Check pagination.
- Make sure the ISBN matches the text file and cover.
What is the difference between pages and sheets?
We work by printed pages and our price calculator is set up as such. A printed page is one side of the page of your book whereas a sheet is a single sheet of paper and will be 2 printed pages in your book.
Questions about printing
Do you offer print-on-demand?
We specialise in providing flexible short-run printing from just 10 copies, allowing you to produce high-quality books without the extensive setup typically required for larger-scale printing. To see how our printing options can best serve you, please visit our Print-on-Demand page for more detailed information.
Will you keep my files for reprints?
We keep all files on our systems indefinitely. If you don’t want us to keep your files please let us know and we will delete them after printing.
How much does it cost to print a book?
All books that we print come in different shapes and sizes, paper types, cover lamination and have many different options. If you want to find out how much your book will be to print please visit our online quote calculator.
What book sizes can you print?
Due to our specialist equipment and the time we have invested in becoming the specialist book printer in the UK we are able to print any size book between A6 and A4 landscape. This means you can print your book at standard book sizes or you can have your book in a completely custom size.
What are the binding options?
We print two types of books: paperback books and hardback books. If you want to find out more about the types of books we offer, please see the following two pages; Paperback Book Printing - Hardback Book Printing
Why do hardback books take longer than paperbacks?
Hardback bookbinding is a lot more time consuming than paperbacks and requires special care and attention. We never like to rush any books and having a longer timeframe for hardback books means the end product that you receive will be the best that it can be.
What paper types are on offer?
We have a vast range of paper types to choose from depending on the content of your book. Our most popular paper types are below;
80gsm Opaque - Good for nonfiction books and good for keeping the costs low. Opaque 80gsm is our cheapest paper and helps with cheap book printing if you are on a budget.
100gsm Opaque - Also good for non-fiction books. As it is a heavier paper than the opaque 80gsm it is better for colour images as there will be less show through. It is more expensive than the opaque 80gsm but only by a little.
80gsm Munken Bookwove White - This is the standard paper for novels and fiction titles. It is a slightly off-white paper with a slightly rough/textured feel. It is also good for ‘bulking’ up the book as it is slightly thicker than the 80gsm and 100gsm opaque papers.
80gsm Munken Bookwove Cream - This is the same paper as the Bookwove White but as the name suggests, this is the cream version. Again this paper is mostly used for novels and for making the spine of your book bigger.
100gsm Recycled - A popular paper for non-fiction titles. This is our recycled paper which is a white similar to the 100gsm Opaque but has a slightly rougher feel but is smoother than the Bookwove papers.
We also offer a range of coated papers from 115gsm to 170gsm which are good for printing photographs and high-quality images. We can print any number of pages in a plate section on the coated papers and then insert them into the book. This is a great option to have the text printed on the nice Bookwove paper and have some colour images on 130gsm coated paper.
If you are struggling to decide on the paper you want please visit our blog post on paper types or get in contact with us directly to discuss your options. If the paper you want is not listed above or on our website, we may be able to order it in. You can also request a sample to receive a paper samples booklet.
Can you produce bound proofs?
Yes, we offer bound proofs for paperback books and hardback books. Please note that most of our hardback bound proofs are bound up as paperback books with a sample cover. We do this in order to get the proof copy out to you quicker. We can produce a complete hardback bound proof but the shipping time on this proof will be greater than our usual 1 to 3 days.
My book was previously printed offset/litho, how different will it look?
This depends on how the files have been set up and sent to us. Colour reproduction will be different and we will do our best to produce it to the same colours as you have had before, so please send us a sample if you want us to match. It is also recommended that you have a proof copy.
Do you print books abroad?
No, we don't, we print all books in-house in our production facility in Exeter. We don’t sub out any work to other printers or to any company abroad. Some extras such as foiling are sent out to a specialist company that we have been working with for several years.
What type of books do you print?
We print a wide range of books; poetry, novels, journals, notebooks and photo books. Please get in touch with us
My book is a unique size, can you print it?
Absolutely, we can print any size between A6 and A4 landscape so as long as your book fits within these dimensions we will have no issues printing your book.
Do you print full-colour books?
Yes, we quite often print full-colour books in a variety of genres. We use the latest generation of digital printing technology and our latest Ricoh colour printer is fantastic. Please contact us for samples to see the quality of print we can offer you.
Do you offer foiling?
We do offer foiling for paperback and hardback books. The price of this is in our online price calculator. To get the best price for foiling you will want to order 100+ books.
Do you offer spot-uv?
It is not something we do in-house often, but we can arrange and quote for it. Please get in touch with us for more information.
Do you offer embossing or debossing?
It is not something we do in-house often, but we can arrange and quote for it. Please get in touch with us for more information.
What is EVA and PUR?
EVA is a hot melt adhesive used for perfect binding. The actual properties of the glue allow it to be re-melted many times. This made it very efficient for the bookbinding process. EVA also has very quick set points, which allowed for short cure times before trimming could begin. EVA is considered an acceptable application for most offset papers, but it was known for causing issues with more difficult stocks.
The process for PUR in bookbinding is a little different than EVA bookbinding. The glue bond from PUR bonds to a book through a chemical reaction. The reaction causes the adhesive to draw moisture out of the air, so the application process absolutely must be applied correctly. The first generations of PUR required a long set up time, but technology has vastly improved over the past decade. PUR can have formulations attain around 80% of their green strength in as little time as a few hours.
What is the difference between UV coating and lamination?
UV coating is a process whereby a polymer resin changes from a liquid to a solid with the help of an ultraviolet light source. Lamination is a clear film placed ontop of your cover.
Questions about your quote and order
How do I place an order?
Orders can be placed on our website via our online quote/order form here. We are also able to accept orders by email as long as you know all the specifications of your book. If you are unsure of what specifications you would like for your book, please contact us.
What happens after I have placed an order?
After you have placed an order you will need to send files to us either by our upload link here or by email if they fit as an attachment. If you use Wetransfer or dropbox then you can send your files to us using those transfer methods. After we have received your files we will check them to make sure they are sufficient for printing and to make sure they match your order. If all the checks come back ok, we will proceed to print a proof if requested or go straight to print. If any checks come back with errors we will let you know.
When do I pay?
Payment is needed before we print the main run of your book. If you have requested a proof copy, we will need payment after the proof is accepted.
How do I pay?
When payment is required we will create an invoice with Sage and send over to you by email. On this invoice, there is a ‘pay now’ button which will take you directly to sage to pay securely. We can also accept payment by bank transfer, the details for this will be on your invoice. If you are having trouble with the previous method please call us to make a payment over the phone.
Does my quoted price include VAT?
There is no VAT on printed books, only on shipping which is included in your book. Please note, if you are having a notebook, diary or journal printed that will be filled out after the book has been printed then VAT will apply.
Does my quote include a cover?
Yes, all quotes on our website and quotes that you receive by email will include a full-colour cover printed to one side. Lamination will be included in your quote, please check to see if it is gloss or matt lamination.
How do I re-order?
If you need to re-order any copies of your book you can fill out a new order with our online price calculator or contact us by email. If there are no changes to the text file or cover file then there is no need to send in new files. If there are any changes then please send in the new files to us. There is no extra charge for new files.
How long will it take to get my books?
This depends on a variety of factors but in most cases, paperback books are printed and shipped within 5 to 7 days and hardback books are shipped within 4 weeks depending on the quantity. Please contact us if you have an urgent delivery timeframe.
Can you distribute books directly to customers?
This is not something we offer and unfortunately, it is not something that we will be able to offer in the near future. Books will have to be shipped in bulk. We can ship to various locations with split delivery but not to individual customers.
What is the minimum number of pages for a perfect bound book?
This depends on the paper used and we normally work off minimum spine width and not minimum page count. You need to aim for a perfect bound book that has a spine width of 3mm. Please check our spine width calculator to work out how many pages you will need.
Can you publish my book?
We are unable to publish any books as we are solely a book printing company.
Can I see samples of your books and paper?
Absolutely, please contact us to see some recently printed samples. You can also request a sample paper booklet by clicking here.
What are the minimum or maximum quantities?
We don’t have any minimum or maximum quantities but you will want to have at least 10 copies of your book printed so the unit cost becomes more efficient. If you want to have a very low unit cost then it is best to order 100+ copies. The more books you order the lower the unit cost will be.
Is the per book price lower if I order more books?
Yes, if you order more books then the unit cost per book becomes cheaper. We have a minimum order quantity of 10 copies for paperback books and 10 copies for hardback books. At these quantities, the unit cost may be quite high. In order to get this unit cost down, we suggest having at least 50 copies of your books printed. If you were to order upwards of 250 copies the unit cost will be significantly lower.
What is the best way to keep costs down?
If you are looking to have your book printed at the most affordable rate then you would want your book printed in B-format or A5 with Opaque 80gsm and a gloss laminated cover. These specifications are our standard specifications for the most economical printing.
If I re-order will my product be exactly the same?
We do our best to make sure all re-orders match the first order you have. However, colour reproduction can be difficult to match. We do keep a copy of your book cover from your previous printing run to colour match. If this is something that concerns you please get in touch when ordering.
How do I send/upload files?
Please send your press-ready files to us using our upload files section on our website here. If you use Wetransfer or Dropbox then you can send your files to us using those transfer methods.
What is an ISBN?
An ISBN is an International Standard Book Number. An ISBN is assigned to each separate edition and variation of a publication.
How do I get an ISBN?
We are unable to supply ISBN’s and you will need to purchase ISBNs from the International ISBN Agency. We can, however, create a barcode for your book from your purchased ISBN.
What is an ISBN Legal Deposit?
The legal deposit has been a part of English law since 1662. If you're a publisher, you need to give a copy of every UK publication you make to the British Library. Five other major UK libraries may also ask you to give them a copy.
What kind of finishing is available?
We have multiple extras that can be added to your paperback and hardback book;
Foiling
Embossing and Debossing
Cover Flaps
Spot UV
Only cover flaps are calculated on our online price calculator. If you are wanting one of the other special finishes then we would need to quote for this manually.
Can you provide a digital proof?
We can provide a digital proof copy of your book and your cover. However, if you are concerned with accurate colour reproduction then we highly recommend a printed proof copy.
When can I expect to see the proof?
We are able to print proof copies of most book proofs within 1 to 3 working days and will ship the proof copy by Royal Mail 1st class.
Can I make amendments to my files after the proof?
You can make as many changes to your book after the proof copy. If you need to send through new files, there will be a charge, £12 for a new text file and £12 for a new cover file. If you have made a lot of amendments and you want a second proof then there will be no file amendment changes but we will charge £30 for a second mono proof and £50 for a second colour proof.
What happens if I don’t like the proof?
If you don’t like the proof copy then please contact us straight away to discuss it. We don’t want to see any of our customers unhappy and we will do our best to make sure you are happy with our printing.
Questions about shipping
What are my delivery options?
We use DPD and Parcelforce for all UK deliveries, usually delivered within 24 hrs. We also have pallet deliveries available for larger orders. For any international deliveries, we will use the best delivery suitable for your shipment at that time.
Do you ship internationally?
We ship books all around the world every month. If you want any books shipped internationally please contact us for a quote.
Can I track my order?
All deliveries will have tracking information, the delivery service has notifications that can be sent to you by email and mobile to keep you constantly updated.
Is delivery included in my quote?
All quotes completed on our website have delivery as a separate price. If you had a quote or order by email, please check to see if it is included in the email.
Is split shipping available?
Absolutely, we can offer split shipping on your order to multiple addresses. Please note we are not able to ship books individually to your clients.
Can you pack and ship with plain boxes and labels?
Absolutely, we do this for a lot of our customers. There is no extra charge for shipping with plain boxes and plain labels.
My shipment is late, what should I do?
If your shipment of books is late, check your tracking details for any updates. If you are unable to check your tracking details please contact us.
How much does delivery cost?
We have a set delivery cost with DPD on our standard next day delivery service at £12 (VAT included). If you are ordering a large number of books then it may be more economical to send on a pallet. Whichever way we send your books, we will make sure we ship them in the most economical way.
A Professional
UK Book Printing Company
Our customer service is the best in the industry. Our staff loves books as much as you do, and our pre-press team is here to help you. We specialise in short-run book printing, offering personal assistance to prepare your book for print. By carefully reviewing your book, we aim to minimise errors, ensuring top-quality results.
Personal Service
As a family-owned printing company, we provide a personal touch. With our small team, you'll always talk directly to Sarah or Louise from our pre-press team. Since we started, we've focused on building strong, lasting relationships with our customers through personalised service.
Specialist Printing
With over 40 years of print experience, we know what it takes to create quality books. Each team member is highly trained and specialises in their field, receiving continuous training to stay ahead of industry advancements. We use the latest technology to ensure quality results every time.
Quality control
Our team checks your book at every stage to ensure it meets our high standards. We are proud to produce some of the best books in the country, as seen in our great reviews and testimonials. Quality is key for us, and we aim to exceed your expectations with every print.
Questions and Answers
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you accept word files?
All files should be sent to us as press-ready PDF files. If you are unable to send files in this format then a word file for your manuscript can be sent. We will convert this file into a PDF file and send it back to you for checking. If you are happy then we can proceed to print.
Do you offer print-on-demand?
We are a short run book printing company, specialising in producing high-quality books in quantities starting from just 10 copies. Unlike print-on-demand services, we offer better quality and consistency without any high setup fees. And when you order 100 or more copies, you'll benefit from a highly competitive unit cost.
How much does it cost to print a book?
All books that we print come in different shapes and sizes, paper types, cover laminations and have many different options you can add to make your book unique. If you want to find out how much your book will be to print please visit our online quote calculator.
How do I place an order?
Orders can be placed on our website via our online quote/order form. We can also accept orders by email as long as you know all the specifications of your book. If you are unsure of what specifications you would like for your book, please get in touch with us.
What book sizes can I print?
Due to our specialist equipment and the time we have invested in becoming the specialist book printer in the UK we are able to print any size book between A6 (148 x 105mm) and A4 landscape (210 x 297mm). This means you can print your book at standard book sizes or you can have your book in a custom size.
How long will it take to get my books?
This depends on a variety of factors but in most cases, paperback books are printed and shipped within 5 to 7 working days and hardback books are shipped within 4 weeks depending on the quantity. Please contact us if you have an urgent delivery timeframe.
Can you produce bound proofs?
Yes, we offer bound proofs for paperback books and hardback books. Please note that most of our hardback bound proofs are bound up as paperback books with a sample cover. We do this in order to get the proof copy out to you quickly and keep costs low. We can produce a complete hardback bound proof but the shipping time on this proof will be greater than our usual 1 to 3 days and may include an additional cost.
Do you print books abroad?
No, we don't, we print all books in-house in our production facility in Exeter. We don’t sub out any printing work to other printers or to any company abroad. Some extras such as foiling are sent out to a specialist company that we have been working with for several years.
