⏱️ Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your words on paper, holding a physical copy of your story, or sharing your knowledge in a beautifully printed book, you’re not alone. Printing a book is an exciting journey, and at Newstyle Print, we’ve helped countless authors, businesses, and creatives bring their projects to life. Whether it’s a family history, a novel, a portfolio, or a company handbook, understanding the printing options and knowing what to expect can make the process a lot smoother—and more enjoyable.
When you decide to print your book, one of the first things to consider is the type of printing that suits your project’s needs. We usually talk about three main methods: litho, digital, and wide-format printing. Litho printing, or offset printing, is fantastic for large print runs because it offers excellent colour consistency and cost-effectiveness once the setup is done. On the other hand, digital printing shines with smaller quantities and quicker turnaround times, perfect if you want to test the market or print personalised copies. Wide-format printing usually comes into play for larger graphics but isn’t typical for standard books.
Now, about book formats—this is where things get fun. Booklets are often staple-bound or wiro bound, which suits shorter works or manuals. If you’re after something more substantial, perfect bound booklets offer a sleek, professional finish that’s popular for novels, portfolios, and brochures. We also offer recycled paper options across many products, so if sustainability matters to you, you can choose eco-friendly stocks without compromising on quality. Sizes can be customised too—whether you want a compact pocket-sized book or something larger to showcase your images and design.
One tip I’d always pass on is to think carefully about paper weight and finish. For example, a silk or matt finish can give your pages a lovely tactile feel and reduce glare, making reading easier on the eyes. If your book includes lots of photographs or vibrant graphics, a satin or gloss finish might be better to make colours pop. Also, heavier paper can make your book feel more substantial and durable, but it can also add to the cost and weight. It’s all about balancing your vision with practical considerations.
Another handy insight is the importance of bleed and margins in your layout. Bleed is the area outside the final page size that allows colour or images to extend to the edge once trimmed. Forgetting about bleed can lead to unsightly white edges. Margins, meanwhile, ensure your text and important elements don’t get cut off or lost in the binding. If you’re designing your book yourself, it’s worth downloading a template or asking your printer for specifications—this can save a lot of headaches later.
To give you an example from our experience, we recently worked with an author who wanted to print a limited run of a family cookbook. They chose a perfect bound booklet format with matt laminated covers and recycled paper inside. Because it was a smaller run, digital printing was the best fit, allowing quick turnaround and the possibility to personalise copies with family member names on the title page. The client loved how the book felt and looked—something tangible and personal that could be passed down through generations.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of professional finishing touches. Foil blocking, embossing, and spot UV varnishes can really elevate your book cover, making it stand out on shelves or as a gift. While these are optional extras, they’re worth considering if you want to make a lasting impression. We also offer a variety of binding options including wiro bound, perfect bound, and saddle stitching, depending on your book’s length and style.
Printing your book is more than just putting ink on paper—it’s about creating something meaningful that reflects your story or brand. At Newstyle Print, we understand the nuances, challenges, and excitement of this process. With a bit of guidance on formats, finishes, and printing methods, you can make informed choices that bring your vision to life beautifully. Remember, every printed book starts with a single page, and we’re here to help those pages turn into something special.
Updated on 1 November 2025
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