Book Design Tip: Trim Size
One of the first things to consider when launching into the design of your book is its physical size. Some things to think about include:
- The length of your manuscript. This will determine the page count of your book. If you choose a smaller trim size, your page count will go up, creating a thicker book and potentially costing more money per book to print.
- Common trim sizes in your book's genre. Research what size other books in your book's genre commonly are. Visit your bookstore with a ruler or simply visit Amazon or Barnes & Noble's websites and view this information in the book details.
- Choosing an industry standard size. Picking an industry standard printing size will save you some money and you will have flexibility when choosing printers. Some standard sizes, in inches, are:
- 5 x 8
- 5.5 x 8.5
- 6 x 9
- 7 x 10
- 8 x 10
- and there are many more!
Do you need help deciding which size would be best for your manuscript? I can help you determine a great size for your book. Send me an email and let's discuss it!
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Help for Independent Presses
Book Design & Production
Have you written a nonfiction or fiction manuscript? After it has been professionally edited, I can design the interior pages and cover, plus guide you through the maze of book publishing and printing. To get started, contact me to discuss your project and my helpful guide for authors.
