Board Books: Sizing, Binding, and Print Specifications
Thinking of publishing a children’s board book? Learn about paper board weights, round corners, and custom print specifications.
Julian Thorne
Senior Managing Editor
"Board books are ideal for young children but require specialized manufacturing. Unlike standard paperbacks, board books use thick paperboard layers pasted together, requiring offset printing rather than standard print-on-demand."
Core Key Takeaways
- Sizing and Page Counts for Board Books
- Choosing Cardboard Thickness and Finishes
- Preparing Layout Files for Board Book Printers
1. Sizing and Page Counts for Board Books
Board books usually come in square sizes like 6x6 or 7x7 inches. Page counts must be in multiples of 2 (usually 10 to 24 pages) because of the thick cardboard mounting.
- Choose square trim sizes like 5x5, 6x6, or 7x7 inches.
- Keep page counts low, typically between 10 and 24 pages.
- Confirm safety test standards for infant toy products in your market.
2. Choosing Cardboard Thickness and Finishes
Select greyboard or white board with a thickness of 300gsm to 400gsm. Apply a glossy or matte lamination to protect pages from moisture and wear.
Publish at Traditional Trade Quality on Your Own Terms
Retain 100% of your royalties, copyright, and creative control while accessing world-class cover designers, CMOS editors, and formatters.
3. Preparing Layout Files for Board Book Printers
Set up your InDesign files with extra bleed margins. Because board books use thick mounts, small shifts during cutting can crop text if margins are too narrow.
The Takeaway
Board books require offset printing relationships. Golden Ivory Publishing coordinates with global printers to manage custom children’s book manufacturing.
Publish at Traditional Trade Quality on Your Own Terms
Retain 100% of your royalties, copyright, and creative control while accessing world-class cover designers, CMOS editors, and formatters.
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