How to Create Your Own Planner to Sell

Are you someone who thrives on organization? Do you find it thrilling to cross tasks off a list? Consider creating your own planner to sell as passive income. 48 Hour Books is here to help!

With a new year upon us, people are ready to turn over a new leaf and strive to be the best version of themselves. One way to tackle the new year is by utilizing a daily planner. Creating and selling your own planner can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bring your planner to life and get it to the book market:

Step 1: Define Your Niche and Target Audience

• Identify Your Audience: Who will use your planner? (e.g., students, professionals, entrepreneurs, parents, fitness enthusiasts).
• Focus on a Niche: Decide on a specific purpose or theme for the planner (e.g., academic planner, fitness tracker, mental health journal, daily productivity tool).

Step 2: Plan the Layout and Features

• Sections and Pages: Determine the sections you want, such as calendars, daily or weekly spreads, goal-setting pages, habit trackers, or inspirational quotes.
• Customization: Include unique features (e.g., stickers, motivational prompts, or blank space for creativity).
• Aesthetic: Choose a visual style—minimalist, colorful, vintage, modern, etc.

**Consider adding Tabs for easy navigation!

Example Layout Breakdown

Weekly Planner Spread:

• Left Page:
• Weekly goals (top-left corner).
• Seven evenly spaced columns for each day.
• Small section for a quote or habit tracker.
• Right Page:
• To-do list.
• Notes or brainstorming space.
• Weekly reflection (what went well, challenges).

Step 3: Design the Planner

• Tools for Design:
• Use graphic design tools like Canva, Adobe InDesign, or Affinity Publisher.
• Templates can be helpful for beginners. Choose from one of our free book templates!
• Binding: Decide on the binding type you want to print. For functionality, we recommend spiral coil binding. For an elevated look, consider case binding.
• Cover Design: Create a captivating cover that will draw people to your planner. Research fonts for planners and research common design choices in the planner industry. Consider special cover options like our Diamond 3D Printing or Foil Stamping.

Step 4: Set Pricing

• Cost Analysis: Calculate production costs, shipping, and platform fees.
• Research Market Prices: Check prices of similar planners to remain competitive.
• Profit Margin: Ensure your pricing covers costs and includes a reasonable profit.

Step 5: Create Branding and Marketing

• Branding:
• Develop a cohesive brand identity, including logos, colors, and packaging.
• Create a brand story that resonates with your audience.
• Marketing:
• Use social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to showcase your planner.
• Collaborate with influencers or bloggers.
• Offer promotional deals or early-bird discounts for pre-orders.

**For more marketing tips, check out our Marketing Resources for blog content on book marketing!

Step 6: Choose Your Sales Platform

• Online Stores:
• Set up a store on platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon.
• Sell directly through social media (e.g., Instagram Shops or Facebook Marketplace).
• Local Sales:
• Partner with local bookstores or gift shops.
• Attend craft fairs or events.

Step 7: Launch and Gather Feedback

• Announce your launch through an email list or social media.
• Offer discounts or bundles to early buyers.
• Gather feedback to refine future editions or products.

We hope this list helps inform your future planner project and inspires you to tackle it. At 48 Hour Books, we’re here to help every step of the way. Learn more about printing a planner.