You don’t need a traditional publishing house to share your stories with the world. Becoming a published author is now more accessible than ever, regardless of your writing background or platform size. If you’re exploring ways to independently publish your work, or already have an established audience, Print Books On Demand offers a streamlined and cost-effective solution to bring your book to life.
This comprehensive guide explores the world of on-demand book printing, highlighting ten reputable services that can help you self-publish your next masterpiece. We’ll delve into production timelines, available publishing formats, and additional services to equip you with the knowledge needed to select the perfect partner for your publishing journey.
Understanding the Appeal of Print-on-Demand Book Publishing
The beauty of print on demand lies in its simplicity and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced authors. Armed with your finished manuscript and some basic design skills – readily achievable with user-friendly design software – you can create professional-quality paperbacks or elegant hardcover editions. These books can then be sold through online marketplaces or directly from your own website, giving you complete control over your publishing process.
The most compelling advantage of print books on demand is the elimination of hefty upfront inventory investments, a common hurdle in traditional self-publishing. Instead of ordering and storing large quantities of books, hoping they will sell, books are only printed when a customer places an order. This significantly reduces financial risk and storage concerns, as books are printed and shipped directly to the buyer’s doorstep.
For authors who have already cultivated an online presence, print books on demand becomes a powerful tool to monetize their reach. Whether you have a dedicated following on social media platforms or a thriving email list, you can effortlessly offer your books to your audience, expanding your creative business and connecting with readers in a tangible way.
Exploring 10 Leading Print-on-Demand Book Services
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of ten of the top print-on-demand publishing services available today, helping you pinpoint the best fit for your books, magazines, or pamphlets.
1. Lulu Direct
Five books of varying sizes, including a ring-bound book, hardcovers, and paperback.
Diverse book formats offered by Lulu Direct, including hardcover, paperback, and spiral-bound options.
Lulu Direct stands out as a specialist in print-on-demand self-publishing, providing authors with the tools to print and sell books directly through their own online stores while retaining full revenue.
Key features of Lulu Direct:
- Production Time: 3–5 business days
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Hardcovers, paperbacks, comic books, magazines, ebooks
- Binding Options: Perfect bound, coil, saddle stitch, hardcover case wrap, hardcover linen with dust jacket
- Printing Options: Black-and-white and color prints, various paper types
Lulu Direct’s extensive format options cater to a wide range of projects, from traditional books to magazines and even comic books. Their binding choices allow for professional finishes, and the variety in paper types ensures your book’s interior matches your vision.
Content writer Braveen Kumar chose Lulu Direct for self-publishing his poetry, attracted by the service’s high profit margins. He notes that the printing cost for his book was approximately $3, with shipping adding another $9, while he sold the book for $20.
Using Lulu Direct also seamlessly integrated with Braveen’s Shopify store, supporting his broader goal of brand building and selling a variety of products. By connecting his store with social media platforms like Instagram, he could directly tag his book in posts, enabling customers to purchase while engaging on social media.
2. BookBaby
Five colorful book covers of varying sizes, side by side in a row.
A collection of vibrant book covers showcasing the print quality and options available with BookBaby.
BookBaby is a comprehensive service offering both print-on-demand book services and digital publication options, including audiobook production.
Key features of BookBaby:
- Production Time: 3–5 business days (for orders under 500 books)
- Minimum Order: 25 books
- Available Formats: Perfect bound, paperback, hardback, ebooks, audiobooks
- Printing Options: Black-and-white and full-color printing
BookBaby supports both black-and-white and full-color printing for paperbacks and hardcovers, ensuring high-quality output for various book types. They have also expanded into audiobook production, utilizing AI voices with a wide selection of narrators and languages.
Beyond printing, BookBaby offers distribution services to major retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as wholesale distributors, broadening your book’s market reach. For authors seeking professional polish, BookBaby provides editing services, including line editing, proofreading, and even synopsis writing to refine your manuscript before publication.
3. IngramSpark
An open page of a book about brilliant color printing including a moody image of a busy road.
Example of high-quality color printing and book layout achievable with IngramSpark’s print-on-demand services.
IngramSpark is renowned for its extensive customization options and robust distribution network, making it a powerful choice for authors seeking wide market penetration for their print books on demand.
Key features of IngramSpark:
- Production Time: Custom quote required
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Paperback, hardcover (with dust jacket), ebooks
- Customization: Book size, paper type, finish (matte/glossy), paper color, paper weight, cover options (including textured hardcover cloth)
IngramSpark stands out with its granular control over book specifications. Authors can tailor every aspect of their book’s physical presentation, from paper type and weight to cover finishes and even specialized materials like textured cloth for hardcovers.
However, IngramSpark’s most significant asset is its unparalleled distribution network. It connects authors to over 40,000 independent bookstores, chain retailers, and libraries globally. This vast network significantly increases the visibility of your titles and opportunities to reach a wider readership.
While IngramSpark is praised for its print quality, some users note that its pricing can be slightly higher compared to some other print-on-demand book services. It’s advisable to obtain custom quotes to accurately assess costs for your specific project.
4. Blurb
a bright yellow book cover in front of an open book showing a poem.
A creatively designed book cover and interior layout, demonstrating Blurb’s design capabilities and print quality.
Blurb is a dedicated print-on-demand service known for its user-friendly design tools and strong integration with Adobe Creative Suite, catering to authors who prioritize design and visual appeal in their books.
Key features of Blurb:
- Production Time: 4–5 business days for printing and binding
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Trade books, magazines, notebooks, photo books, ebooks
- Paper Options: Wide selection of paper types
- Design Tools: Proprietary design software, Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and InDesign integrations
Blurb provides a diverse range of paper options, allowing authors to select the perfect stock for their project’s aesthetic and feel. They also offer their own design software, simplifying the layout process to meet industry standards.
For authors targeting the broader book market, Blurb’s integrated bookstore and extensive network of retailers can be advantageous. Retailers can directly order and stock your books through Blurb’s distribution channels, streamlining the process of getting your book into physical stores.
Blurb’s seamless integration with Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and InDesign is a major benefit for designers and authors already working within the Adobe ecosystem. This integration simplifies the formatting and submission process, ensuring professional-looking results. While Blurb doesn’t have a dedicated Shopify app, you can easily direct customers from your Shopify store to Blurb to complete their purchase.
5. Acutrack
A cartoon-style book cover for a book called Herizon. There’s a hot air balloon with flowers on.
A children’s book cover, illustrating Acutrack’s capability to print various book styles, including coloring books and children’s literature.
Acutrack focuses on efficient book printing and fulfillment, offering warehousing and rapid shipping, making it suitable for authors needing quick turnaround times and streamlined logistics for their print books on demand.
Key features of Acutrack:
- Production Time: Most orders ship within one business day (books are pre-produced and warehoused)
- Minimum Order: 50 books
- Available Formats: Paperback, hardcover, spiral bound, journals, coloring books
- Integration: Dedicated Shopify app, integration with 100+ ecommerce platforms
Acutrack distinguishes itself by pre-printing and warehousing books, enabling incredibly fast fulfillment times. They accommodate diverse book types and sizes, from large coffee-table books to children’s books and even specialized formats like coloring books.
With a dedicated Shopify app and integrations with over 100 ecommerce platforms, Acutrack provides real-time shipping updates and tracking information, enhancing the customer experience. Online reviews consistently highlight Acutrack’s responsive customer support and exceptionally quick fulfillment speeds, making it a reliable choice for authors prioritizing speed and efficiency.
6. Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Five eye-catching book covers in dark colors. The top book is titled, An Innocent Client.
A selection of book covers published through Kindle Direct Publishing, highlighting the platform’s print quality for paperbacks and hardcovers.
Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Amazon’s self-publishing arm, is the go-to option for authors primarily targeting the Amazon marketplace. KDP provides direct access to Amazon’s vast Kindle store for both digital and print-on-demand book formats.
Key features of Kindle Direct Publishing:
- Production Time: 1–3 business days
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Paperback, hardcover, ebook, ebook series
- Marketplace Access: Direct access to Amazon’s Kindle Store
KDP’s primary advantage is its direct integration with Amazon, the world’s largest online bookseller. Listing your book on KDP is free, with Amazon taking a commission on each sale.
While KDP doesn’t support magazines, periodicals, or spiral-bound notebooks, it excels in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats. Authors can easily convert existing books into Amazon-compatible formats to broaden their reach on this dominant platform. For authors focused on maximizing visibility and sales within the Amazon ecosystem, KDP is an indispensable print-on-demand book service.
7. Barnes & Noble Press
A collage of eight book covers in different colors and styles. The book in the middle is open.
A diverse collection of book covers showcasing the variety of genres and styles supported by Barnes & Noble Press.
Barnes & Noble Press offers authors a direct pathway to reach readers through Barnes & Noble’s online and potentially physical retail channels. It’s a strong option for authors aiming to sell their print books on demand through a major bookselling brand.
Key features of Barnes & Noble Press:
- Production Time: 5–10 business days (depending on book type)
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Paperback, hardcover (with dust jacket)
- Marketplace Access: Availability on BN.com and NOOK devices
Barnes & Noble Press allows authors to create, publish, and track sales of their books in various formats. Your book becomes available to millions of potential readers on BN.com and through Barnes & Noble’s NOOK e-reader devices.
The platform is versatile, accommodating single book projects as well as larger print-on-demand paperback runs. For authors seeking distribution through a well-known bookseller and its online ecosystem, Barnes & Noble Press offers a valuable avenue to market and sell their work.
8. Contrado
A pair of hands holds an open book with an image of buildings and flowers.
Close-up view of a Contrado notebook, highlighting the print quality and customization options for stationery products.
Contrado stands out with its extensive range of print-on-demand products beyond traditional books, including stationery and customizable gifts. While not focused on hardcover books, Contrado is excellent for authors looking to create unique notebooks, journals, and photo albums as part of their brand.
Key features of Contrado:
- Production Time: 1–3 business days
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Scrapbooks, portfolios, notebooks, guest books, photo albums
- Product Range: 470+ print-on-demand products including stationery and gifts
- Shopify App: Dedicated Shopify app available
Contrado’s Shopify app offers access to a vast catalog of over 470 print-on-demand products, including a variety of paper and stationery items. While traditional hardcover books aren’t their specialty, you can design and sell custom notebooks, address books, and photo books featuring your artwork or designs.
Contrado offers both domestic and international shipping within a reasonable timeframe. They also provide student discounts, making it an appealing option for student authors or projects. For authors interested in diversifying their offerings beyond standard books and exploring personalized stationery and gift items, Contrado provides a unique print-on-demand solution.
9. Gelato
An open book shows a family laughing and smiling at an outdoor party.
A photo book showcasing family memories, illustrating Gelato’s focus on high-quality photo products and personalized books.
Gelato leverages a global network of over 50 manufacturers across 70+ locations to offer fast, localized print-on-demand services. While their book formats are limited, Gelato is ideal for authors interested in photo books, notebooks, and expanding into branded merchandise.
Key features of Gelato:
- Production Time: 3-4 days
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Photo books, notebooks
- Global Network: 50+ manufacturers in 70+ global locations
- Product Expansion: Print-on-demand shirts, apparel, mugs, and merchandise
Gelato partners with a widespread network of print providers, enabling efficient production and shipping across numerous regions. They offer flat-rate shipping and discounts for bulk orders, making it cost-effective for larger projects.
While traditional book printing isn’t available, Gelato excels in photo books, notebooks, calendars, and also extends into print-on-demand apparel and merchandise. This versatility allows authors to build a broader product line for their readers, encompassing branded merchandise alongside their books. For authors seeking a global reach and diversified product offerings beyond standard print books on demand, Gelato provides a compelling solution.
10. Printify
A purple ring-bound notebook titled, Mood next to an open page and pencil.
A custom-designed notebook, highlighting Printify’s specialization in personalized journals and notebooks for print-on-demand.
Printify specializes in print-on-demand notebooks and journals, offering a wide product catalog and established fulfillment network, particularly suitable for authors building brands centered around stationery and personalized paper goods.
Key features of Printify:
- Production Time: 2–7 business days
- Minimum Order: None
- Available Formats: Notebooks, custom journals
- Shopify App: Dedicated Shopify app with real-time sales and order data
Printify’s Shopify app integrates seamlessly with your Shopify store, providing real-time sales and order data for efficient business management. Their focus on notebooks and journals makes them a strong choice for authors creating workbooks, companion journals, or branded stationery to complement their books.
Printify’s extensive product catalog and fulfillment infrastructure support growing brands, offering a reliable print-on-demand solution for authors focused on personalized paper products and stationery.
Template Icon
Webinar promotional graphic, advertising a free workshop on starting a profitable print-on-demand store.
Free Webinar:
How to Quickly Start a Profitable Print-on-Demand Store
Learn how to transform your product ideas into a thriving online business in our free 40-minute video workshop. From setting up your online store to securing your first print-on-demand sale, we’ll guide you through each step.
Key Advantages of Print on Demand for Authors
Print books on demand offers a host of benefits that empower authors and streamline the self-publishing process:
Simple Startup
Print-on-demand services operate on a just-in-time manufacturing model. Most providers only print books when an order is placed. This eliminates the financial burden and risk associated with purchasing a large inventory of books upfront, before knowing your sales volume. This approach makes publishing accessible to authors at any stage, regardless of their initial investment capacity.
Automated Order Fulfillment
Print-on-demand providers manage the entire order fulfillment process, from receiving orders and packaging books to arranging shipping and delivery. This automation saves authors significant time and resources, particularly beneficial for those just starting out and managing multiple aspects of their author business. Focusing on writing and marketing becomes easier when fulfillment is handled professionally.
Expanded Retail Access
Services like Blurb and IngramSpark have established relationships with wholesalers and booksellers, facilitating easier entry into traditional retail channels. These connections enable authors to get their print books on demand into physical bookstores, expanding their reach to readers who prefer purchasing books in brick-and-mortar stores.
Cost-Effective Pricing
Print on demand is particularly advantageous for small print runs, making it ideal for niche markets, local communities, or specialized projects. Most services offer competitive pricing and quality control options, including ordering proofs, copyediting, and proofreading, ensuring a professional final product without excessive upfront costs.
Adaptability and Flexibility
Print-on-demand allows for rapid updates to your book design based on reader feedback or new editions. From cover revisions to page layout adjustments, changes can be implemented quickly and efficiently. Authors can begin with smaller print runs and scale production as their readership grows, adapting to market demand without large financial risks.
Choosing the Right Print-on-Demand Service: A Step-by-Step Guide
Selecting the ideal print-on-demand book publisher requires careful consideration. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the decision-making process:
1. Evaluate Production and Shipping Processes
Timely delivery is crucial for customer satisfaction. Prioritize services that offer efficient printing and delivery times. Inquire about their packaging methods, shipping partners, and international shipping capabilities and costs if you plan to sell globally.
Consider these key aspects of their self-publishing process:
- Binding and Cover Options: Does the service offer the binding and cover types that align with your book’s genre and style?
- Proof Copies: Can you order proof copies or samples before committing to larger print runs to assess quality?
- Exclusivity Agreements: Carefully review the fine print regarding exclusivity. Can you distribute your book through multiple channels simultaneously, or are there restrictions?
2. Analyze Pricing and Payment Structures
Print-on-demand services employ varying payment models. Some are free to set up but take a percentage of your sales, while others may have upfront costs but allow you to retain a larger share of profits per book. Align the pricing structure with your budget and sales projections to determine the most financially viable option for your publishing venture.
3. Assess Scalability and Growth Potential
Anticipate future growth and choose a print-on-demand service capable of scaling with your book’s success. Look for services providing real-time sales data and inventory management tools to track sales trends and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Consider your long-term vision beyond print books on demand. If you plan to expand into ebooks or audiobooks, selecting a service that offers these formats as well can streamline your future publishing endeavors.
4. Investigate Reputation and Industry Connections
If bookstore distribution is a priority, opt for a service with strong retailer networks, such as IngramSpark or Blurb. Research the service’s reputation by reading author reviews, testimonials, and case studies to gauge customer satisfaction and service quality. Understanding other authors’ experiences can provide valuable insights.
Print on Demand vs. Traditional Publishing: Key Differences
Print books on demand offers a fundamentally different publishing paradigm compared to traditional publishing routes:
Bypassing Gatekeepers
With print on demand, you eliminate the need to pass through traditional publishing house gatekeepers. While this grants you full creative control and faster time-to-market, it also means your work won’t undergo reviews by in-house professional editors.
To maintain quality, consider hiring freelance editors or utilizing editing services offered by providers like BookBaby to polish your manuscript before publication.
Pricing Control
Self-publishing via print on demand empowers you to set your own book prices. While services may take a commission, you determine the retail price and your profit margin.
Selling directly through your online store gives you complete pricing control. However, when selling to retailers, you’ll need to offer wholesale discounts (typically 40% to 60%) to allow bookstores to apply their standard markup.
Distribution Freedom
Print on demand grants you distribution autonomy. Instead of a publisher dictating sales channels, you decide where to sell your book. You can sell directly to readers via your online store, collaborate with retailers, or utilize wholesaler networks. Many print-on-demand services offer distribution networks to expand your market reach.
Effective Marketing Strategies for Print-on-Demand Books
Marketing is just as crucial as compelling content when self-publishing print books on demand. Without the marketing machinery of a traditional publisher, authors must take the lead in reaching readers. Here are essential marketing strategies to get started:
Building Your Author Platform
Your author platform serves as your marketing foundation, the central hub where readers discover you and your books. Building an effective platform doesn’t require advanced technical skills. Key components include:
- Website: A simple, user-friendly website with essential information about you and your books. Include an About page, a blog for updates and behind-the-scenes content, and direct purchase links or retailer links for your books.
- Email List: Grow your email list by offering valuable incentives to website visitors, such as a free chapter or a resource related to your book’s topic.
- Author Branding: Define your unique author brand – your writing style, genre expertise, or personal story. Maintain brand consistency across all platform elements.
Leveraging Social Media for Promotion
Social media platforms connect authors directly with readers and potential buyers. Choose platforms aligned with your target audience – Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, etc. Platforms like TikTok have proven particularly effective for authors reaching younger demographics.
Optimize your social media presence with these tactics:
- Authenticity and Consistency: Share more than just promotional content. Post about your personality, writing process, and inspirations. Maintain a regular posting schedule to build audience engagement.
- Audience Engagement: Respond to comments, ask questions, and participate in genre-specific conversations. Interaction fosters reader connection and increases support for your work.
- Promotional Campaigns: Run targeted ads or host giveaways to expand your reach. Even modest ad budgets on platforms like Facebook or Instagram can effectively reach readers interested in your book’s genre.
Share Your Words with the World Through Print on Demand
Reaching readers no longer requires a traditional publisher. Print books on demand offers a cost-effective and empowering path for authors to share their writing and build a profitable author business. By integrating a print-on-demand service like Lulu Direct with a Shopify store, you gain the tools and apps to seamlessly sell your books and cultivate your audience.
Manage your entire book business from a centralized dashboard, offering multiple formats – paperback, hardcover, or digital – and automating printing and shipping processes.
Start building your dream online bookstore today and join the growing ranks of successful independent authors using Shopify’s powerful platform. With high-conversion checkout features, Shopify stores help you sell more books, reduce operational costs, and save valuable time.
Learn more about building your online bookstore
Frequently Asked Questions About Print-on-Demand Books
Is there a minimum order quantity for print-on-demand books?
Minimum order quantities vary by service. Some services require minimums for production efficiency, while many allow you to print single books, making print books on demand accessible for all order sizes. Always check individual service policies.
Can I sell my print-on-demand book on multiple platforms?
Yes, you can typically list your print-on-demand book on multiple sales platforms to maximize your reach. However, carefully review the terms of each platform, as some may have exclusivity requirements.
What is considered the best print-on-demand site for books?
Shopify is an excellent platform for selling print-on-demand books. By integrating a compatible print-on-demand app with your Shopify store, you can seamlessly print and sell your books directly to your audience.
Does Amazon offer print-on-demand book services?
Yes, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) provides print-on-demand services for both physical and digital books through the Amazon marketplace.
What are the typical costs for print-on-demand book printing?
Most print-on-demand services have minimal upfront costs. Fulfillment and self-publishing process costs are typically deducted from your sales revenue. Costs vary depending on the provider and your book’s retail price and specifications.
Is print on demand still a profitable model for authors?
Yes, print on demand offers a profitable model for authors. It allows you to start with minimal initial investment and scale your business as demand grows. Profitability depends on factors such as your pricing strategy, marketing efforts, and the quality of your book.
Can I sell print-on-demand books internationally?
Most print-on-demand services offer global shipping and distribution options. You can sell directly to international readers through your online store or utilize services that connect to global wholesaler networks to expand your international market reach.
