by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As a writer, you’re no stranger to the self-publishing journey. You’ve poured your heart and soul into your manuscript, and now it’s time to share it with the world. But before you hit that publish button, take a step back and consider the common mistakes that can make or break your self-publishing experience.
Underestimating the Power of Editing
Edit, edit, edit! It’s a mantra every writer should live by. But sometimes, in our excitement to share our work, we underestimate the power of a thorough edit. Don’t get me wrong, you’ve probably edited your manuscript multiple times, but is it enough? Have you considered hiring a professional editor or getting beta readers to provide feedback?
A well-edited manuscript can be the difference between a bestseller and a mediocre book. Remember, your readers will judge your book by its cover (and the editing). Invest in your manuscript’s future by taking the time to edit and proofread.
Takeaway: Editing is not a step; it’s a crucial part of the self-publishing process. Consider investing in editing software like Grammarly or ProWritingAid, or hiring a professional editor to help you polish your manuscript.
The Design Disaster: Book Formatting and Cover Design
Book design is an art form, folks! Your book’s interior and exterior design can make or break the reader’s experience. A poorly designed book can be off-putting, while a well-designed book can elevate your story to new heights.
Remember, your book’s interior:
- Choose a clear, readable font (no Comic Sans, please!) and font size.
- Use headings, subheadings, and white space to create a visually appealing layout.
- Consider using a formatting template or software like Vellum or Canva to create a professional-looking design.
And don’t forget about your book’s exterior! A captivating cover design can grab the reader’s attention and make them want to buy your book. Invest in a professional cover designer, or learn the ropes of cover design yourself using design software like Adobe InDesign or Canva.
Takeaway: Book design is not an afterthought; it’s a crucial part of the self-publishing process. Invest time and resources in creating a visually stunning book that will make your readers proud to own it.
Distribution and Marketing Mishaps
You’ve published your book, congratulations are in order! But wait, what’s next? Many self-publishing authors underestimate the importance of marketing and promotional strategies. You’ve written a fantastic book, but how will readers find it?
Develop a marketing strategy that includes:
- Building an author platform (website, social media, newsletter)
- Identifying your target audience and crafting a unique selling proposition (USP)
- Crafting a pre-launch and post-launch marketing strategy
Remember, marketing is an ongoing process. Continuously promote your work, interact with your audience, and adapt to changes in the market.
Takeaway: Marketing is not a one-time task; it’s an ongoing process that requires dedication and creativity. Invest time and resources in building your author platform and promotional strategies.
“I have never thought of myself as a writer, but rather as a storyteller. The words are just a vehicle to get the story to the reader.” – J.K. Rowling
As writers, we’re storytellers at heart. Remember, self-publishing is not a solo journey; it’s a collaborative process that requires patience, persistence, and practice. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a high-quality, professionally published book that will make you and your readers proud.
If you’re looking to improve your writing skills, check out our article on Writing Mistakes to Avoid. And if you’re looking to create a stunning chapbook, don’t forget to read our guide on Mastering Chapbook Layout for Perfect Binding.
Lastly, remember to Transform Your Writing Habit by developing a consistent writing routine that will help you stay focused and motivated throughout your writing journey.
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As writers, we’ve all been there – staring at a blank page, wondering why our words aren’t flowing as effortlessly as they did in our minds. The truth is, writing is a process, and it takes time, effort, and practice to refine our craft. One of the most significant obstacles to overcome is avoiding common writing mistakes that can hinder our progress and stifle our creativity.
Common Writing Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s face it – we’ve all made mistakes. From grammatical errors to poor plot development, these mistakes can be detrimental to our writing. However, by being aware of these common pitfalls, we can take steps to improve our writing and produce work that we can be proud of.
One of the most common mistakes is poor planning. Without a clear idea of where our story is headed, we can easily get lost in the writing process. This can lead to meandering plots, flat characters, and a lack of direction. To avoid this, take the time to develop a clear outline, and stick to it. This will help you stay focused and ensure that your story stays on track.
Another mistake is weak character development. Our characters should be multi-dimensional and relatable. Give them unique personalities, motivations, and backstories to make them believable and engaging. Avoid making them too perfect or one-dimensional, as this can make them uninteresting and unrealistic.
Additionally, poor writing habits can hinder our progress. This includes procrastination, lack of editing, and inconsistent writing schedules. To overcome this, create a schedule and stick to it. Set aside dedicated time to write, and make sure you’re editing and revising your work.
Overcoming Writing Mistakes
Now that we’ve discussed some common writing mistakes, let’s talk about how to overcome them. One of the most effective ways is to develop a writing habit. Transform Your Writing Habit by setting aside dedicated time to write, and making it a priority. This will help you stay focused and avoid procrastination.
Another way to overcome writing mistakes is to join a writing community. This can be a online forum, writing group, or even a social media group. Sharing your work and getting feedback from others can help you identify areas for improvement and provide valuable insights.
In addition, using the right tools can make a significant difference. For example, Vellum is a formatting tool that can help you design and layout your book in a professional manner. Canva is a graphic design tool that can help you create stunning covers and graphics. By using these tools, you can ensure that your book looks polished and professional.
Furthermore, investing in quality paper and materials can enhance the overall reading experience. For example, using high-quality paper with a smooth finish can make reading more comfortable. Additionally, using a perfect binding method can give your book a professional finish. For more information on how to do this, check out Mastering Chapbook Layout for Perfect Binding.
Staying Motivated
Finally, staying motivated is key to overcoming writing mistakes. It’s easy to get discouraged when faced with rejection, criticism, or self-doubt. However, it’s essential to remember why you started writing in the first place. Here’s a quote that always motivates me:
“You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.” – Jack London
This quote reminds me that writing is a process, and it requires effort and dedication. It’s not always easy, but with persistence and determination, we can overcome any obstacle and produce work that we can be proud of.
In conclusion, writing mistakes are inevitable, but by being aware of them, we can take steps to improve our craft. By developing good writing habits, using the right materials, and staying motivated, we can overcome any obstacle and create work that we can be proud of. So, don’t be discouraged by mistakes – use them as an opportunity to learn and grow as a writer.
Finally, if you’re interested in learning more about how to create a book that sells itself, check out DIY Books that Sell Themselves. This article provides valuable insights and tips on how to create a book that will appeal to readers and stand out in a crowded market.
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As a writer, there’s something profoundly satisfying about holding a physical copy of your work. And when it comes to self-publishing, perfect binding is the crème de la crème of bookbinding methods. But, let’s be real, it can be intimidating – especially when it comes to chapbook layout. Fear not, dear writer, for I’m about to demystify the process and equip you with the skills to create a stunning, professionally-bound chapbook.
The Basics of Chapbook Layout
A chapbook is a small book, typically between 10-40 pages, and perfect binding is a method where the pages are glued together at the spine, creating a flat, smooth surface. To achieve this, your chapbook layout needs to follow some specific guidelines.
First and foremost, you’ll need to set up your document with the correct margins. A good rule of thumb is to set your margins to at least 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) for a standard 5.5 x 8.5-inch chapbook. This will give you enough room to breathe and ensure your text doesn’t get lost in the binding.
Next, you’ll need to consider your page layout. Since chapbooks are typically printed on both sides of the paper, you’ll need to set up your document with facing pages. This means that the first page of your chapbook will be a right-hand page, followed by a left-hand page, and so on.
Designing Your Chapbook’s Interior
it’s time to get creative! Your chapbook’s interior is where you can really let your personality shine. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Choose a font that’s clear and readable, and stick to it throughout the chapbook. A good rule of thumb is to use a serif font for body text and a sans-serif font for headings.
- Use headings and subheadings to break up your text and create visual hierarchy.
- Keep your paragraphs short and sweet – aim for 3-5 sentences per paragraph.
- Don’t be afraid to add some whitespace to your design. This will help your chapbook feel more modern and easy to read.
When it comes to designing your chapbook’s interior, there are many tools you can use. Vellum, for example, is a popular layout and design software specifically created for self-published authors. Canva is another great option, with its user-friendly interface and vast library of templates and design elements.
“The road to hell is paved with adverbs.” – Stephen King
Remember, your chapbook’s interior should be a reflection of your writing style and personality. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things – after all, that’s what self-publishing is all about!
Preparing Your Chapbook for Print
that you’ve designed your chapbook’s interior, it’s time to prepare it for print. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
First, you’ll need to choose a paper type that’s suitable for perfect binding. Look for papers with a weight of at least 80 gsm (24 lb). This will ensure that your chapbook lies flat when open and doesn’t feel too flimsy.
Next, you’ll need to save your chapbook as a print-ready PDF. Make sure to include bleed areas (typically 0.125 inches or 3 mm) around the edges of your pages, to ensure that your design isn’t cut off during the printing process.
Finally, be sure to proofread your chapbook multiple times before sending it to print. A single typo or formatting error can make all the difference between a professional-looking chapbook and a amateurish one.
Transform Your Writing Habit by creating a writing schedule and sticking to it. This will help you stay focused and productive, and ensure that your chapbook is the best it can be. And, if you’re looking for more tips on self-publishing, be sure to check out DIY Books that Sell Themselves and Writing Chapbooks that Sell.
Mastering chapbook layout for perfect binding takes time and practice, but with these tips and a little patience, you can create stunning, professionally-bound chapbooks that showcase your writing skills. So what are you waiting for? Get writing, and happy self-publishing!
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As writers, we’re always looking for ways to improve, to grow, and to produce our best work. But sometimes, despite our best intentions, our writing habits can become stagnant, unproductive, and unfulfilling. If you’re struggling to make progress on your writing projects, or if you’re feeling uninspired and unmotivated, it’s time to transform your writing habit.
Re-evaluate Your Writing Space
Your writing space can greatly impact your writing habit. A cluttered, cramped, and uninviting space can stifle your creativity and make it difficult to focus. On the other hand, a well-designed, comfortable, and organized space can inspire you to write more frequently and productively. Take a closer look at your current writing space and identify what’s working and what’s not.
Consider the lighting: Is it too bright or too dim? Do you have a comfortable and ergonomic chair and desk? Is there enough storage for your writing materials and resources? Take the time to optimize your writing space to suit your needs and preferences.
One of the most essential elements of a productive writing space is the paper. Yes, you read that right – paper! The right type of paper can make a huge difference in your writing experience. For example, if you’re working on a chapbook, you may want to consider using high-quality, textured paper that will enhance the tactile experience of your readers.
Some popular paper weights for chapbooks include 100gsm, 120gsm, and 150gsm. You can also experiment with different paper textures, such as linen, cotton, or recycled paper. The key is to find a paper that inspires you to write and that will elevate the overall reading experience of your chapbook. For more tips on writing chapbooks that sell, check out Writing Chapbooks that Sell.
Develop a Writing Routine
A consistent writing routine can help you stay focused, productive, and motivated. The key is to find a routine that works for you and your lifestyle. Experiment with different schedules and habits until you find what works best for you.
Here are some tips to help you develop a writing routine:
- Set a specific writing goal for each session, whether it’s to complete a certain number of words or to finish a specific task.
- Choose a consistent writing time and stick to it, whether it’s early morning, afternoon, or late evening.
- Eliminate distractions by turning off your phone, TV, or other electronic devices.
- Use a timer to keep yourself on track and focused.
- Take regular breaks to recharge and refresh your mind and body.
Remember, the key is to find a routine that is sustainable, enjoyable, and productive. Don’t be too rigid – allow yourself to make changes as needed, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a session.
Stay Organized and Focused
Staying organized and focused is crucial to transforming your writing habit. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using a writing tool or software that works for you.
Some popular writing tools and software include Vellum, Scrivener, and Canva, which can help you with formatting, designing, and publishing your book. You can also use apps like Evernote, Trello, or Asana to help you stay organized, focused, and on track.
Here’s a motivational quote to keep you going:
The road to hell is paved with works-in-progress.
This quote reminds us that it’s not about starting multiple projects, but about seeing them through to completion. Stay focused on your goals, and don’t be afraid to seek help or guidance when you need it.
Finally, remember that transforming your writing habit takes time, effort, and patience. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you encounter setbacks or rejections along the way. Instead, focus on the progress you’re making, and remind yourself that every step forward is a step in the right direction.
For more advice on reviving a rejected manuscript, check out Ways to Revive a Rejected Manuscript. And if you’re interested in creating DIY books that sell themselves, be sure to check out DIY Books that Sell Themselves.
By following these tips and strategies, you can transform your writing habit, stay productive, and produce your best work. Happy writing!
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As writers, we’ve all dreamed of creating a book that sells itself. A book that effortlessly resonates with readers, generating buzz and attention without us having to lift a finger. Sounds like a fantasy, right? But what if I told you it’s possible? That by focusing on creating a high-quality, visually stunning, and professionally crafted book, you can increase its chances of selling itself?
It all starts with a DIY approach. By taking control of the publishing process, you can ensure that every aspect of your book – from the cover design to the interior formatting – meets your unique vision and standards. In this post, we’ll explore the key elements that make a DIY book truly irresistible to readers.
Crafting a Professional Interior
When it comes to interior design, many self-published authors opt for a simplistic, straightforward approach. However, this can often result in a book that looks amateurish and unpolished. To create a professional-looking book, you need to pay attention to font choices, line spacing, and margin sizes.
One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the right font. A serif font like Garamond or Georgia is often ideal for body text, as it’s easy to read and provides a classic, timeless feel. When it comes to headings and titles, a sans-serif font like Arial or Helvetica can add a touch of sophistication.
For formatting, it’s essential to balance line spacing and margin sizes. A general rule of thumb is to use 1.5-2 line spacing and 0.5-1 inch margins on all sides. This will ensure that your text is easy to read and doesn’t feel cramped or overwhelming.
Some of the most popular tools for formatting and designing your book’s interior include Vellum, Microsoft Word, and Adobe InDesign. Each has its unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s worth experimenting to find the one that works best for you.
Designing a Cover that Grabs Attention
Your cover is often the first thing potential readers will notice about your book. A poorly designed cover can be a major turnoff, while a well-designed one can entice readers to learn more. So, what makes a cover truly attention-grabbing?
First and foremost, your cover should be eye-catching and relevant to your book’s genre and theme. A romance novel, for example, might feature a warm, pastel color scheme, while a sci-fi novel might opt for a bold, futuristic design.
“A good cover is like a good first line – it should draw the reader in and make them want to know more.” – Joe Konrath
When designing your cover, remember to keep it simple and uncluttered. Avoid using too many fonts, colors, or images, as this can create a visually overwhelming effect. Instead, focus on creating a clean, cohesive design that effectively communicates your book’s tone and message.
Canva is an excellent tool for designing your book cover, providing a user-friendly interface and a vast library of templates, fonts, and images. Even if you have limited design experience, you can create a stunning cover with Canva.
Choosing the Right Paper and Binding
When it comes to printing and binding your book, the options can be overwhelming. However, by understanding the different types of paper and binding methods, you can create a book that feels premium and high-quality.
Some popular paper options include:
- 80-100 gsm paper, ideal for fiction and non-fiction books
- 150-200 gsm paper, suitable for poetry and art books
- Eco-friendly recycled paper, perfect for environmentally conscious authors
When it comes to binding, you have two main options: perfect binding and saddle-stitching. Perfect binding is ideal for larger books, while saddle-stitching is better suited for smaller, thinner books.
By paying attention to these details, you can create a book that feels luxurious and professionally crafted. This, in turn, can increase your book’s chances of selling itself.
Remember, creating a DIY book that sells itself requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn and improve. By focusing on the key elements of interior design, cover design, and paper and binding choices, you can create a book that truly stands out in a crowded market. And who knows? You might just find your book selling itself.
If you’re struggling to get your manuscript ready for self-publishing, check out our guide to Self-Publishing 101: From Manuscript to Market Ready. And if you’re looking to revive a rejected manuscript, be sure to explore our post on Ways to Revive a Rejected Manuscript.
Happy writing, and I look forward to seeing your DIY book sell itself!
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As writers, we’re no strangers to the thrill of creation, but when it comes to self-publishing a chapbook, the excitement can quickly turn to anxiety. How do you ensure your work stands out in a crowded market? The good news is that with some careful planning, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn, you can create a chapbook that sells.
Quality of Content
First and foremost, your chapbook needs to be exceptional. This might seem obvious, but it’s essential to remember that your writing is the heart of your chapbook. Take the time to refine your work, seeking feedback from beta readers and incorporating their suggestions. If your manuscript has been rejected in the past, consider taking a closer look at ways to revive it (revisiting your approach or rewriting with a fresh perspective.
As you edit, keep in mind the flow, and pacing of your writing. Are there any areas where your narrative drags or loses momentum? Are your characters well-developed and relatable? Take the time to craft writing that shines, whether you’re working on short stories ( Writing Short Stories that Shine) or poetry.
Design and Layout
A well-designed chapbook is not only visually stunning but can elevate your writing, making it more engaging and professional. When it comes to layout, consider the following:
- Choose a clear, readable font, avoiding fonts that are too ornate or difficult to read.
- Balance text and white space to create a clean, uncluttered look.
- Select a font size that’s easy on the eyes, usually between 10 and 12 points.
- Use headings and subheadings to break up your content and create a clear hierarchy.
Investing in design software like Canva or Vellum can help you create a professional-looking chapbook. These tools offer a range of templates, fonts, and design elements to help you achieve a polished look.
Production Quality
The physical quality of your chapbook can make a significant difference in how it’s perceived by readers. When choosing materials, consider the following:
- Opt for high-quality paper that feels good in the hand, with a weight of at least 80gsm.
- Select a binding style that complements your content and design, such as perfect binding, stapled, or hand-sewn.
- Use a cover that’s durable and visually appealing, using materials like cardstock or matte laminate.
Remember, the production quality of your chapbook is a reflection of your professionalism and attention to detail. Take the time to research and invest in materials that will showcase your work in the best possible light.
A book is a garden, an orchard, a storehouse, a party, a company by the way, a counselor, a seer, a whisperer, a door opener, a voyager, a groupie, a genius, a wizard, a teacher, a preacher, a philosopher, a guru, an explorer, a painter, a musician, an architect, a creator, a leader, a partner, a collaborator, a friend, a teacher, a writer, a poet, a singer, a dancer, an artist, a leader, a philosopher, a seer, a sage, a mystic, an expert, a master, a messenger, a guide, a guru, a god.
Self-publishing a chapbook requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. By focusing on the quality of your content, design, and production, you can create a chapbook that truly shines. Remember, your chapbook is not just a collection of words on paper; it’s a reflection of you as a writer and your brand. Take the time to craft a chapbook that truly represents you, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a bestseller.
Ready to take the leap and self-publish your chapbook? Start with the basics and work your way up to market readiness (Self-Publishing 101: From Manuscript to Market Ready.
