You’ve spent weeks, maybe months, pouring your ideas, stories, products, or artwork into a manuscript or catalog design. Now comes the big moment—Book Printing.
Whether you’re printing your first novel, photo book, poetry collection, company catalog, or product booklet, the process can seem overwhelming. With dozens of printing options, binding types, and paper choices available, how do you ensure your first print project turns out exactly how you envisioned?
Here’s everything you need to know before printing your first book or catalog—so you get it right the first time.
1. Start with a Print-Ready Layout
The first (and most important) step in book or catalog printing is ensuring your file is print-ready.
That means:
- Bleed areas (typically 0.125″) are included
- All images are high-resolution (300 DPI or more)
- Fonts are embedded or outlined
- The page size matches the final trim size
- Margins and gutters are properly set (especially for books with a spine)
Tools like Adobe InDesign, Affinity Publisher, or Canva (for simpler layouts) are great for catalog and book formatting. If you’re unsure, many print shops like Laguna Digital offer pre-press review services.
2. Choose the Right Size & Format
Books and catalogs come in various standard sizes, such as:
| Type | Common Sizes |
| Novels | 5.5” x 8.5” or 6” x 9” |
| Catalogs | 8.5” x 11” or 6” x 9” |
| Photo Books | 8” x 8” or 10” x 10” |
| Booklets | 5.5” x 8.5” or 8.5” x 11” |
Smaller books are more portable and affordable, while larger formats allow for bigger visuals and more impact—perfect for product catalogs and lookbooks.
3. Paper Type Matters
The paper you choose affects both look and feel. Here are common options:
- Glossy Paper: Great for photos and catalogs; high shine and color vibrancy
- Matte Paper: Non-reflective; ideal for books or soft visuals
- Uncoated/Text Paper: Easy to write on; good for workbooks or journals
- Heavyweight Covers: Adds durability and professionalism to your book or catalog
Talk to your print provider about coating options, thickness (measured in lb or gsm), and how paper choices impact color output and handling.
4. Pick the Right Binding Style
Binding impacts how your book or catalog looks, opens, and endures use.
- Saddle Stitch: Folded and stapled; best for booklets under 60 pages
- Perfect Bound: Glued spine; great for softcover books or thicker catalogs
- Spiral/Coil Bound: Flexible and easy to open flat; ideal for manuals or workbooks
- Hardcover (Case Bound): Premium finish, longer lifespan—used for coffee table books or special editions
Perfect binding is the most popular for professional books, while saddle stitching works well for small catalogs or event programs.
5. Know Your Print Quantity
Are you printing:
- A few copies for a small audience?
- Dozens for an event or client presentation?
- Hundreds or thousands for retail or distribution?
Most local printers offer short-run digital printing for small quantities and offset printing for bulk orders. Digital printing offers fast turnaround and affordability for low volumes. Offset is ideal for large quantities with consistent quality.
Tip: Start with a small batch to proof and revise if needed before committing to a large run.
6. Think About Finishing Touches
Want to elevate your book or catalog? Consider:
- UV coating or lamination on covers
- Embossing or foil stamping for premium branding
- Rounded corners for modern aesthetics
- Inserts or fold-out pages for catalogs
- Custom packaging for special orders
These extras may cost more but can make a big impact—especially if your catalog is going to high-end clients or your book is a creative product.
7. Choose a Trusted Local Printer
A professional printer can guide you through file setup, materials, timelines, and delivery. When choosing a print partner:
- Ask for samples
- Check for in-house printing (no outsourcing = better control)
- Confirm proofing options
- Understand their turnaround times
- Choose someone local if possible—for faster support and pickup
If you’re in Laguna Beach, Irvine, or anywhere in Orange County, Laguna Digital provides end-to-end book and catalog printing with personalized customer support, fast service, and museum-quality output.
Real-Life Use Case
A small business in Laguna Hills recently needed to print a seasonal product catalog to distribute via direct mail. They worked with Laguna Digital to design and print 500 catalogs using:
- Saddle stitch binding
- Glossy 100 lb paper
- Spot UV on the cover logo
- 8.5” x 11” full-color layout
The result? Their catalog helped drive a 40% increase in product inquiries within just three weeks of distribution.
Final Checklist Before You Print
✅ Is your layout file print-ready with bleed and crop marks?
✅ Did you choose the correct size and paper type?
✅ Have you selected the best binding method for your content?
✅ Do you know your print quantity and budget?
✅ Have you reviewed a physical or digital proof?
Taking time to prepare ensures that your final product looks and feels professional—worthy of all the effort you put into it.
Final Thoughts
Printing your first book or catalog doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, the right print partner, and attention to detail, you can create something that not only looks beautiful but also delivers results—whether you’re sharing your art, selling your brand, or telling your story.
Ready to bring your project to life?
