Print-only book services
Why choose to print with us
Sometimes authors simply want physical books. No publishing, no distribution, just well-made copies to share with family, use within a business, or take to an event. But arranging this through a local printer can be harder than expected. Many are not set up for books, and you can end up passing specifications between the printer and the designer and becoming involved in details you never wanted to manage.
Instead, because we publish books through a print-on-demand network, we can use the same fast, high-quality, global printing system for Print-Only. We handle the technical setup. You simply order on our platform and the books arrive on your doorstep, wherever you are. It is an easy and affordable way to create high-quality books in small quantities, completely private and with zero hassle.
How print-on-demand works
Once your final design files are approved, we prepare them for production through Ingram's global print network. Each copy is printed on demand using the same presses, papers and bindings used for published titles, ensuring crisp text, accurate color and a durable finish.
For £100, we handle the setup, prepare your files, upload them to the system, and send you a printed proof copy to check and keep. After that, you can order as many or as few copies as you like at cost price using our print calculator to see exact prices. Each book includes a barcode for manufacturing control but no ISBN or retailer listing, so your project remains entirely private.
We're ready when you are
You now have access to the same professional print-on-demand system we use for our published books, but without needing to publish. If you would like guidance on print options, quantities or pricing, just send us what you have. We will take care of the technical side and help you move forward.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an ISBN?
No. ISBNs are only required if a book is being sold through retailers. Print-Only is a private printing service, so an ISBN is not needed. Each copy includes a barcode for manufacturing control, but this is not linked to a publisher of record and the book remains entirely private.
What if I need changes?
Changes are always possible, but they are most cost-effective when submitted together rather than one by one. If you need to update your printed proof, changes start at £60 for design updates and resubmission. Once the files are updated, you can order new copies whenever you are ready.
What do I need to know about ordering my book?
Once your printed proof is approved you can order copies at cost price through your Authorzone. Because books are printed to order, they cannot be refunded. Print on demand means each copy is produced individually at the nearest factory, which allows global delivery without holding stock. It also means that small variations in trimming, tone or binding, as well as minor imperfections such as light scuffing, slight waviness or a small trim shift, are normal and fall within POD tolerances. Genuine faults and transit damage are handled differently. If you receive a clearly faulty copy, photograph the issue and the back page immediately and we will arrange a replacement. Please see our print-on-demand article for further details.
How much will my book cost to print?
You can view exact pricing using our print cost calculator. Costs depend mainly on production choices, page count and quantity. The calculator shows all available trim sizes, papers, bindings and color options, so you can test different combinations and see how they affect unit price. Volume discounts apply automatically for orders above 100 copies.