As indie authors, we wear many hats – writer, editor to designer, and publisher. While designing your book can be an exciting part of self-publishing, it’s also where many of us stumble. With so many tools and software available, it’s easy to get caught up in the creative process and overlook some fatal errors in DIY book design. In this post, we’ll explore common mistakes to avoid, tips to improve your design, and resources to help you create a professionally designed book that will make readers swoon.
Typography Traps
One of the most crucial design elements is typography. The right font choice can make or break the reading experience. However, with so many fonts available, it’s easy to fall into some common typography traps. Here are a few to avoid:
- Too many font styles: Stick to 2-3 font styles maximum. Any more, and your book will start to look like a ransom note.
- Inconsistent font sizes: Ensure your headings, subheadings, and body text are consistent throughout the book. Use a clear hierarchy to guide the reader’s eye.
- Incorrect font alignment: Make sure your text is aligned correctly. Flush left for body text and flush right for headings usually work best.
For a more detailed guide on typography, check out Write, Design, Publish: Your Book’s Journey, where we dive deeper into the world of typography.
Designing for Digital vs. Print
When designing your book, it’s essential to consider whether you’re creating a digital-only or print book. The design elements will differ significantly between the two. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Resolution: Digital books require a much lower resolution (72 dpi) compared to print books (300 dpi).
- Color mode: Digital books use RGB, while print books use CMYK.
- Trim size: Ensure your design is optimized for the trim size you’ve chosen. A 6×9 inch trim size will have different design requirements than an 8.5×11 inch trim size.
For chapbooks, it’s essential to consider the physical constraints of the book. Chapbook Magic: 10 Essential Pages explores the unique challenges and opportunities of chapbook design.
Common Design Mistakes
Beyond typography and digital vs. print considerations, there are some common design mistakes that can make your book look amateurish:
- Over-designing: Less is often more. Avoid cluttering your pages with too many elements.
- Inadequate margins: Leave enough whitespace around your text to make it easy to read.
- Low-quality images: Ensure any images you use are high-resolution and relevant to the content.
As the famous designer, Dieter Rams, once said:
Design is so simple. That’s why it’s so complicated.
Remember, good design is about creating a seamless reading experience. It’s not about showcasing your design skills (although, let’s be honest, it’s nice to get some design kudos too!).
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new design tools and software. From Vellum to Canva, there are many tools available to help you create a professionally designed book. And if you’re feeling crafty, why not try your own handmade touch with DIY book binding methods?
With these tips and resources, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautifully designed book that will make readers proud to have on their shelves. Happy designing!