Top Mistakes to Avoid When Printing Your Book in Australia

Printing your book is an exciting milestone, but it's essential to navigate the process carefully to ensure a professional result. Avoiding common pitfalls can save you time, money, and frustration. Here's a guide to help you steer clear of typical book printing mistakes in Australia.

1. Choosing the Wrong Paper or Finish

Selecting an inappropriate paper stock or finish can affect the durability and visual appeal of your book. For instance, using glossy paper for text-heavy books can cause eye strain and smudging, especially in warmer, humid environments. Conversely, opting for low GSM paper to cut costs might result in a flimsy feel and potential ink bleed-through. It's crucial to match the paper type to your book's genre and content. Australian printers typically offer coated and uncoated stock, with GSM ranging from 80 to 350. Understanding these options and requesting samples can aid in making an informed decision. 

2. Ignoring Print File Requirements

A flawless print begins with a correctly prepared file. Errors in the source file will be printed exactly as they appear. Common mistakes include:

• No bleed or incorrect bleed settings: A 3mm bleed is the Australian printing standard for most books.

• Ignoring safe margins: Keep all text and key visuals at least 5mm–10mm inside the trim line.

• Using low-resolution images (under 300 DPI): These may appear pixelated when printed.

• Wrong file format submission: PDF/X-1a is the standard for professional book printing in Australia.

Always confirm file specifications with your printer before finalising your artwork. Better still, request a prepress file check. 

3. Skipping the Print Proof Stage

Skipping the proofing stage is one of the most expensive blunders you can make. Many authors assume a digital preview is enough, but onscreen proofs can't replicate how colours, paper texture, or binding feel in hand. A misaligned spine or off-centre title can ruin an entire print run. Always opt for a physical press proof, especially for large runs or image-heavy content. 

4. Underestimating Shipping and Distribution Costs

Printing your book is only half the battle—getting it into readers' hands across Australia is where many authors miscalculate. From freight charges between states to warehousing and fulfilment, the logistics can eat into your budget fast. Assuming national postage is cheap can be misleading, as shipping books from, say, Sydney to regional WA can be more expensive than sending internationally. It's essential to get clear quotes for shipping before committing to a print run size. 

5. Using Inappropriate Binding for Your Book Type

Binding affects not just how your book looks but how it holds up with use. For instance, perfect binding (glue-bound spine) may not hold properly or even align correctly for books with fewer than 48 pages. Saddle-stitching is better for thin books like brochures or children's books. For novels or manuals over 200 pages, standard glue binding can weaken over time. Opting for PUR or section-sewn binding offers better durability. 

6. Going Too Cheap on Print Quality

It's tempting to cut corners on printing costs, especially for indie authors footing the bill. However, low-cost printing often leads to low-quality results that can sabotage your credibility. Inferior paper and ink can fade or smear, and inconsistent print runs can result in off-colour pages or misaligned text. In the Australian market, readers expect a professional finish, even from self-published titles. Investing in quality printing ensures your book meets industry standards and appeals to readers. 

7. Failing to Understand ISBN & Legal Deposit Rules in Australia

Many first-time authors think an ISBN is optional or that legal obligations don't apply to self-published works. However, in Australia, ignoring these basics can delay distribution or even lead to non-compliance with national requirements. Not purchasing an ISBN can hinder retail distribution, libraries, and online listings. Reusing ISBNs across formats can confuse metadata and distribution channels. By law, every book published in Australia must be deposited with the National Library of Australia and usually a state library. Even self-published books are required to comply. Including your publishing name or brand on your ISBN registration maintains professionalism. 

Conclusion

Navigating the book printing process requires careful planning and attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a high-quality final product that resonates with readers. Partnering with a reputable printing service can provide guidance and support throughout the process. For Australian authors, DTPS Printing Solutions offers comprehensive services to help bring your book to life professionally.