Board Book Printing

What's a board book? Board book is a book that each page is made of two sheets of thicker cardboard and then self cover or hardcover are glued together to be a book. Board book usually designed for the children whose age between 0-4 years old. Board book often use specialized board book binding and is different from the normal children's books. The board book is thicker and more durable than them.

Paper Stock for Board Book

Coated one-side paper is commonly used for board book printing because it offers a good balance between print quality and durability. The coated side provides a smooth, even surface for printing crisp and vibrant images, while the uncoated side provides a surface that is more receptive to glue and binding. This makes it easier to successfully bind the pages of a board book without cracking or tearing the paper.

Additionally, coated one-side paper is more resistant to moisture and stains, which is important for a book that will be handled frequently and by young children who may spill liquids or food on it. The lamination can also provide some protection against scratching, which can help to extend the life of the book.

Overall, coated one-side paper is a good choice for board book printing because it offers both high-quality printing results and added durability for a book that will be used repeatedly by young children.

Usually, the most popular paper weight we recommend for custom children's board books is 350gsm/16pt C1S paper, if you want thiner feel or consider budget, we often recommend 250gsm/12pt C1S paper, or 300gsm/14pt C1S paper also a good choice.

Some common paper weight for board books printing:

• Two sheets of 250gsm C1S paper wrapped together
• Two sheets of 300gsm C1S paper wrapped together
• two sheets of 350gsm C1S paper wrapped together
• 3, 4, 5 , etc. multiple sheets of C1S paper wrapped together
• Other options, like C1S paper wrapped two sheets of 1mm grey board, etc

Board Book Size

The standard size of board books printing can vary depending on the publisher, but there are several common sizes that are widely used in the industry. Here are some of the standard board book sizes:

Square size

6 x 6 inches

7 x 7 inches

8 x 8 inches

8.5 x 8.5 inches

Square sizes are popular for board books designed for infants, toddlers, and young children. The square format allows for equal space to display illustrations and text, making it ideal for books with simple designs or illustrations.

Portrait size:

5 x 7 inches

6 x 8 inches

6x 9 inches

Portrait sizes are taller than they are wide and are often used for custom board books that have more complex illustrations or longer stories.

Landscape size:

7 x 5 inches

8 x 6 inches

9x 6 inches

Landscape sizes are wider than they are tall and are often used for board books that have panoramic illustrations or for books with multiple images across a spread.

It's important to note that board book sizes can vary depending on the publisher or the specific book project. Publishers may choose to customize the size of their board books to suit their specific needs and target audience. Ultimately, the size of a board book depends on the intended audience, content, and design of the book. Usually, the prefect board book size is between 4-10 inches.

At Prime Printings, we offer various custom sizes to cater our client's need, from mini size to large size, we can cover. Please contact our experts to discuss your requirements.

Board Book Binding

There are two common types of board book binding: self-cover board book binding and hardcover board book binding.

Self-cover board book binding:

In this type of binding, the pages and cover of the board book are made from the same material. The cover is usually printed on thicker board stock to provide extra durability. The inner pages are then printed on the same thickness of cardboard, typically laminated with a protective layer. The binding process is that each page is mounted together with two sheet of paper and then glued on cardboard cover to be a book.

Hardcover board book binding:

This type of binding involves adding a hard cover to the board book, which cover is the same as the normal hard cover. Then each inner page are mounted together with two sheet of paper. Finally, attached to the hardcover using a case binding method. This method also provides extra durability and protection for the board book, but the cost will higher than self cover board book binding.

Both self-cover and hardcover board book bindings have their benefits and drawbacks. Self-cover bindings are more cost-effective and easier to handle, while hardcover bindings offer greater protection, durability and high-end outlook. The choice of binding ultimately depends on the specific needs and goals of the board book project.

Board Book Finishes

Custom board book printing is a popular type of printing used for children's books and other publications that require a sturdy and durable book construction. There are various printing crafts that are used in the process of custom printing a board book, which includes round corner, lamination, spot UV, die-cut, and many more.

Round corner:

Round corner printing is a process whereby the corners of the book are rounded to achieve a more finished and professional look. Not only does it create a safe and beautiful finish, but it also protects the book from any damages or tearing. Board books often with rounded corners to avoid scratching young children's immature hands.

Lamination:

Lamination is a process of applying a thin layer of film on the board book covers and inner pages, protecting them from wear and tear and increasing their longevity. Lamination enhances the book's design and gives it a glossy or matte finish depending upon the material used. Click "glossy vs matte lamination" to learn about their difference.

Spot UV:

Spot UV printing is a technique that adds a shiny and glossy effect to a particular area of the book. This technique is mostly used to highlight the book's title, images, or other critical information. This effect gives a more stylish look to the book and draws the attention of the reader to the right places.

Die-Cut:

Die-cutting is a printing technique used to cut a specific shape or design into the board book. Typically, the die-cutting shapes in children's books are animals, letters, or other related shapes. It provides a more interactive experience for the child as they can play with the book and use their creativity to match the characters.

More finishing, please click here.

Board books are vital for children's development, and using high-quality materials, printing techniques, and creative designs can make the reading experience more enjoyable, fun, and interactive.

Board Book Design and Printing Tips

Here are some tips for designing and creating artwork for board books:

Board book design tips:

Keep it simple: Board books are meant for very young children, so keep the designs and illustrations simple and easy to understand. Use bold, bright colors and avoid cluttering each page with too much information.

Size matters: Keep in mind that board books are typically smaller than regular picture books. Make sure your artwork is appropriately sized to fit the pages of the book.

Textures and materials: Experiment with different textures and materials when creating your artwork. Children love touching and feeling different surfaces, and incorporating this into your design can make your board book stand out.

Consider age-appropriateness: Think about the developmental stage of your target audience when creating your artwork. Younger children may respond better to high-contrast images and simple shapes, while older children may enjoy more detailed illustrations.

Test it out: Once you have finished your artwork, test it out on some actual children within your target age range. This will give you valuable feedback and help you make any necessary adjustments before printing and publishing your board book.

Remember, creating artwork for a board book is all about engaging young readers and creating an enjoyable reading experience. More board design and print tips, please refer "design and printing board book"

Board book printing file tips

Preparing a file for board book printing requires specific guidelines to ensure the pages are printed correctly. Here are some steps to follow when preparing a file for board book printing:

Start with the right software

Use professional design software such as Adobe InDesign or Illustrator to create your design. These programs are commonly used in the printing industry and will provide the necessary tools to produce high-quality artwork.

Set up your document

Create a new document with the correct dimensions of your board book. Board books typically measure around 6 x 6 inches, with about 8-20 pages. Make sure to add bleed (extra margin around the edges) to avoid any white space or cutting errors. Bleed often seting 3mm(0.125 inches).

Design each page

Create each page of your board book design individually. Keep in mind that board books are meant for very young children, so use clear, simple designs and bold, bright colors. Besides, please ensure to use high quality pictures (lowest 300DPI).

Save your file

Save your final design as a high-resolution PDF file. This format is common in the printing industry and will ensure that your file is ready for printing.

Once you have created your file, submit it to your printer following their specific file submission guidelines. Be sure to include any necessary instructions and details, such as paper type and binding method.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your file is print-ready and meets all necessary requirements for high quality board book printing.

Helpful link:

Board book vs hardcover

Self-publish board book guide

Square or portrait or landscape board book?

10 Pop Types Of Custom Board Books Printing

Print Custom Board Book FAQ(part 1)

Print Custom Board Book FAQ(part 2)

What Prime Printings’s Mass Production can Bring to You

• Free pre-press file checking and free calibrated Epson color proofing
• CTP plate making (computer direct plate making)
• Large 4-color offset printing and laminating
• Powerful die cutting technology
• Rounded corners
• Multiple printing and binding lines provide strong production capacity
• Various customized size, finishes, paper options to meet different printing requirement
• A variety of standard trim sizes and page counts designed to increase the efficiency of our production workflow
• Production turnaround time is approximately 2-3 weeks from approved proofing. This may vary based on print quantity, process complexity, etc.

Why Choose Us to Print Your Board Book Project?

1. We has over 20 years of board book printing experience and have granted ISO9001:2008, FSC standard for Chain of custody certification that meets eco-friendly standard. Now our products export too many global countries. Such as the USA, Australia, Canada, UK, France,Swiss, Germany, Sweden, Spain, African, etc. And with high reputation in these countries. Select us, we can ensure 100% high quality printing and the biggest discount is 40-50% off.

2. Our sales team is young and energetic. We will make sure you can get our instantly book quotation in 1-2 hours with our most professional and honestly printing solutions no other hidden cost. Service is our company's best advantage among other Chinese book printing companies. You will enjoy doing business with us.

3. Delivery is also our highly control department. When your products come out, we will use strongest cartons and pallet to pack it. Click "packing way" page to see how we pack your printed product. You can choose a ship by air or sea at your will. Our shipping cost will save a lot for you as well. Our service purposes: High Quality, Safely, Save, On time to your door.

Ready to print your own board book? Contact us to get instant quote today!