A professional-looking printed book impresses readers, builds credibility, and creates a lasting first impression. Whether you're publishing a novel, memoir, business book, or educational guide, presentation matters as much as content.
Even if your writing is stellar, poor formatting or an unattractive design can cause readers to judge a book by its cover—literally.
If you’re looking into book printing in Chicago, prepare with these expert tips to give your book a polished, professional finish that looks bookstore-ready.
Nail the Cover Design First
They say not to judge a book by its cover, but everyone does. Your cover design is your first shot at attracting attention and making a reader curious enough to pick it up.
It must be visually appealing, genre-appropriate, and easy to read, even in thumbnail size (for online listings).
Here’s what a standout cover includes:
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A clean, readable title and author name
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High-resolution images or graphics
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A consistent color palette
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A professionally designed spine and back cover with a compelling blurb
If design isn’t your strength, don’t hesitate to hire a graphic designer specializing in book covers. It’s a worthwhile investment.
Focus on Interior Formatting
Once someone opens your book, the inside should look as polished as the outside. Interior formatting includes font choices, spacing, margin size, headers, and footers. A messy layout can make reading difficult and even frustrating.
Some key interior design tips:
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Stick to one or two professional fonts like Garamond or Baskerville
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Use justified alignment for a clean, balanced look
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Keep consistent chapter headings and spacing
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Ensure there are no awkward breaks or widowed/orphaned lines
Good formatting makes your book easier to read—and lets your content shine without distractions.
Use High-Quality Paper and Binding
When it comes to book printing in Chicago, not all printers or materials are created equal. Quality paper and binding add a sense of professionalism and durability that readers notice immediately.
Choose a paper finish (matte or gloss) that suits your book’s purpose and target audience. Hardcover or perfect-bound paperback books generally feel more substantial and credible. Ensure your binding is secure and opens smoothly. A poorly bound book that falls apart halfway through is a quick ticket to negative reviews.
Include Professional Elements
Take cues from traditionally published books. Small details often make a big difference when it comes to professionalism.
Consider adding:
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A copyright page with ISBN and publication info
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A table of contents (especially for nonfiction)
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Page numbers, headers, and footers
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A foreword or author bio, if applicable
These elements might seem small, but they add structure, polish, and a sense of completeness to your book.
Don’t Skip the Proof Copy
Before you print a large batch, always request a proof copy from your printing service. This allows you to see the final product in your hands and catch any overlooked errors in layout, color, or text.
A digital preview is helpful, but nothing compares to flipping through the real thing. When using book printing services, a reputable printer will offer proofing options so you can perfect your work before going to press.
A Final Touch of Local Appeal
While this tip doesn’t directly relate to books, it’s worth considering if you promote your work locally. Using window graphics in Chicago is a great way to market your book at local bookstores, libraries, or coffee shops.
Eye-catching window displays can draw in curious readers and help build visibility in your community. And speaking of marketing, custom window graphics in Chicago can also be an excellent way for authors to promote book signings, launches, or reading events in style.
A well-printed book reflects your professionalism and dedication. By focusing on every detail—from cover to layout to materials—you can ensure your book not only reads well but also looks incredible.
Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a team, these tips can help you take full advantage of book printing in Chicago and create a finished product you’re proud to share with the world.
AlphaGraphics Chicago North offers exceptional quality through precise printing, professional design support, and quick turnaround times.