What type of printing is best for self-publishing?

Choose based on quantity, colour needs and cash flow. Print-on-demand is low risk with higher unit cost; short-run digital is ideal for 50–500 copies with quick turnaround; litho is best for larger printings where colour control and unit economics matter. Many authors combine them: POD for ongoing availability plus a short-run/litho batch for launches and events.

Further reading: /information/print-methods

What is print-on-demand?

POD prints each copy only when ordered, so you don’t hold stock or pay upfront for a large run. It’s excellent for managing risk and keeping a title “always available”, but unit costs are higher and paper/colour options are more limited. Use it for steady catalogue availability; supplement with a batch print when you need lower unit cost or premium finishes.

Further reading: /information/print-on-demand

What is short-run printing?

Short-run uses high-quality digital presses to produce small batches economically (typically 50–500 copies). You get better paper and finish choices than POD, faster top-ups, and cleaner unit costs for events and signings. It’s a good middle ground when you’re confident of near-term sales but not ready for litho volumes.

Further reading: /information/short-run-printing

What is litho-printing?

Litho uses plates and ink on press, giving superb consistency, rich solids and the lowest unit cost at higher quantities. It shines for colour-heavy books, hardbacks and when you’re printing several hundred to several thousand copies. Setup has a fixed cost, so it’s most cost-effective once you pass the break-even against digital.

Further reading: /information/litho-printing

How many copies of my book should I print?

Work from demand, not hope. Forecast first-year sales by channel, then test with POD or a 100–250 short-run to learn. Move to litho when the projected sales volume clears the setup cost and storage realities. Keep cash tied up in stock as low as practical; reprint sooner rather than filling your garage.

Further reading: /information/how-many-copies-to-print

How should I price my book?

Start with your genre’s typical price band, then check your unit cost and the trade maths. Allow for retailer/wholesaler discounts (often 40–55%), print cost, shipping to you, and a sensible margin. Printed books are zero-rated for VAT in the UK; price to signal the correct market position, not just to be the cheapest. If your cost base is high, adjust format, page count or print method before pushing the RRP beyond its category norms.

Further reading: /information/pricing-your-book

How to pack and post books?

Use purpose-made book wraps or rigid mailers; avoid thin jiffy bags for anything heavier than a slim paperback. Protect corners, keep barcodes unscuffed, and include a simple packing slip and returns address. Weigh and measure accurately, batch your labels, and keep a small stock of spare wraps. Test-post one to yourself to check it survives normal handling.

Further reading: /information/packing-and-posting-books