Hardcover or Paperback: Choose Both with Split Binding

Having a hard time deciding between paperback or hardcover for your self-published book? With our split binding option, you don’t have to choose. You can add hardcover books to any order. You might change your mind last minute and want your book to go from paperback to hardback. Here is some information on how to place your order, along with some advice for setting up your hardcover file from one of our expert prepress technicians!

When you go to place your order, select “perfect binding” as your binding option. When you fill out the rest of the first page, click the “Next” button and at the bottom of the second page, there will be a field for hardcover books. It will ask if you would like to convert 25 of your paperback books to hardcover. Click the “Yes” before continuing the order process.

When you finish placing your order, you will be asked to upload your files. You will need to upload your inside pages, along with two separate covers: one for paperback and one set up for your hardcover books.

Here's some technical advice on how to convert your paperback cover to a hardcover file:

·       Allow extra for the wrap on the hard cover board – at least .375 to .75 inches.

·       Keep all text in .25 to .5 inches from the trim edges/bleed pages

·       The margin between the spine and layout area should be .5 inches. This is the hinge area and is a void area. Do not place text in the hinge area.

·       It is easier to create a hardcover book from a perfect bound book if the front, back, and spine are is separate pages.

Need more help or have questions about publishing a book yourself or split binding? We have cover size calculators available on our website to help you with your measurements for both paperback and hardcover books. And don't forget to check out our free book templates! If you need further assistance, you can call us at 800-231-0521 to talk to a prepress technician.