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Print on demand books have quietly become a game changer in the world of publishing and printing, especially here in the UK. If you’ve ever wondered how authors, small publishers, or businesses manage to produce quality books without huge print runs or storage headaches, this is probably why. The idea of printing books only when needed, without the pressure of bulk orders, not only cuts down on waste but also opens up creative possibilities that traditional litho printing struggles with. At Newstyle Print, we’ve seen firsthand how print on demand is making printing more accessible and flexible, whether it’s for a local author’s debut novel or a business’s bespoke catalogue.
Now, I should mention that print on demand isn’t just about convenience. It’s a different beast compared to litho or even standard digital printing. While litho printing shines in massive runs with its consistent high quality and cost-effectiveness at scale, print on demand is more about agility and minimising inventory. It uses digital presses that can handle small quantities economically, without the setup costs that litho demands. This means you can print a single copy or a hundred without breaking the bank.
Helpful Tips and Insights on Print on Demand Books
- Choose the right printing process for your needs: Print on demand usually relies on high-quality digital printing, which has improved leaps and bounds in terms of colour vibrancy and paper compatibility. For books with lots of images or detailed graphics, opting for digital print on fine uncoated or satin paper can make a big difference.
- Custom sizes and formats: One of the neat advantages is that you’re not stuck with standard book sizes. Need a square photo book or a slim booklet for a portfolio? Print on demand allows for custom dimensions, so your book can truly fit your vision and purpose.
- Material and finishing options: You’ve probably noticed that many print on demand books come with a range of cover finishes, from matte to glossy, or even soft-touch. Choosing the right cover stock and finish can elevate the book’s feel and durability, which is especially important if it’s a gift or a professional presentation piece.
- Environmental impact: Because you’re only printing what you need, print on demand inherently reduces waste. Plus, many print on demand services, including ours, offer eco-friendly paper options, like recycled stocks, which align with the growing demand for sustainable printing.
- Managing turnaround times: Print on demand books typically have quicker turnaround than traditional orders, but it’s still worth checking the production times, especially if you have a tight deadline. Digital processes speed things up but can vary depending on the binding and finishing choices.
- Binding types to consider: While perfect bound is popular for print on demand books, you can also explore stapled or wiro bound options for shorter runs or booklets. Each binding type affects not just the look but also the usability of the book, so think about how it will be handled and stored.
A Short Case Example: Local Author’s Journey
Take, for instance, a local author we worked with last year. They wanted to self-publish a novel but didn’t want to commit to a large stockpile of books upfront. Using print on demand, they were able to print a small batch for their book launch and then reorder as sales grew. We helped them choose a lovely uncoated paper with a soft-touch laminated cover, giving the book a premium feel without the hefty price tag of litho runs. They could also experiment with a slightly narrower trim size, which made the book stand out on shelves. This approach meant minimal waste, no storage costs, and a product they were genuinely proud of.
Wrapping Up Thoughts
It’s fascinating to see how print on demand books are redefining printing possibilities. For anyone dipping their toes into publishing, or businesses wanting bespoke printed materials without excess, this method offers a smart balance between quality, cost, and flexibility. Of course, print on demand isn’t a cure-all — if you’re printing thousands of copies, litho still often wins on price — but for many projects, especially those where control and sustainability matter, it’s worth serious consideration. At Newstyle Print, we appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every book, no matter the size of the run, and print on demand helps bring that to life efficiently and responsibly.
Updated on 4 November 2025
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