How to Make Your Own Book

Self-publishing a book can seem like a big undertaking, but we can help make the process easy and simple.  Make your own book by partnering 48 Hour Books in just seven steps.

7 Steps to Make Your Own Book

1.     Write your book

This should come as no surprise. The first thing on the agenda to making your own book is to write it! Once you’ve finished writing your book, you will want to make sure your writing is professionally edited. 48 Hour Books can help you with your search for an editor.

2.     Design your book cover

Next, you will want to have a design in mind for your book cover. Your book cover can be one of your greatest marketing tools, so you will want an eye-grabbing design. For an inexpensive way to really stand out, check out our Diamond 3D printing.  

3.     Set up your files

In order to print with 48 Hour Books, we require print-ready PDF files of your inside pages and cover. This means that when your files are sent to us, they should be edited and set up to the proper size you want your books to be. If you’re not tech-savvy, we have free book templates already set up to standard book sizes to choose from. There’s also a handy cover size calculator for your book cover. Need extra help? Our prepress technicians can reformat your files like the bestsellers for you, so you can rest easy.

4.     Place an order

Once your book files are ready, it’s time to place an order! Simply visit our website and fill out your book information. If you are stumped on what book selections to make, such as the type of paper or book cover finish, we recommend ordering our free Ultimate Guide sample book before you start the process. You will be able to see our options up close to make an informed decision on how you want your book to look. If you plan to sell your books in stores or online, you may want to order an ISBN, which is available to request on the online order form.

5.     Upload your files

Once your book order is placed, you will be prompted to upload your PDF files. You will simply upload them from your computer onto your account with us. Your account is created when you place an order. If you have any issues uploading your files, give us a call and our customer service will walk you through it!

6.     View and approve your proof

After we receive your files, you will be assigned a customer service representative and a prepress technician. Your customer service rep will handle any questions you may have about your order and your prepress tech will be the person looking at your files and preparing your proof. They will send you a notification if they see any issues with your files. Once finished, the PDF proof will be uploaded to your account to view. Once you approve your proofs and pay in full…

7.     Your books go to print!

Ready to print your book? Get started today!

Partner with 48 Hour Books:

With quick turnaround times, fast shipping and quality service, and additional options, we've got you covered.

Quick turnaround times: We print paperback books in just 2 business days and case bound (hardcover) books in 5 business days. For a complete list of production times, click here.

Fast shipping: With two locations (Las Vegas, NV and Akron, OH), we are within 2 business days UPS Ground shipping from most locations. Plan ahead with our shipping map.

Quality service: Printing a book isn't something you do every day, so we are here to happily answer any questions you may have. Don't be afraid to give us a call or shoot us an email. Our customer service team is happy to provide support. Contact us today!

Additional options: From special cover options like our Diamond 3D printing, to reformatting, and ISBN’s, we can help set you up for self-publishing success!