Hardcover Book Printing

High-Quality Hardcover Book Printing Services – Custom Options Available

Get A Quote

Let's Us Know About Your Project and We'll Get You a Fast, Free Printing Quote

Printing Services

Hardcover Book Printing Services from PRC

In a world of quick & cheap production, many companies have lost the art of producing quality, long-lasting products. When you need high-quality hardcover book printing services– call PRC Book Printing.

At PRC Book Printing, we have well over 20+ years of experience in exceptional hardcover book printing and other book printing services. Read on to learn more about our book printing process.

A good hardcover book results from high-quality materials and precise printing techniques. At PRC Book Printing, we specialize in providing cost-effective hardcover and custom book printing services to publishing authors across the United States.

Whether you are a business owner, publisher or an Author looking for reliable printing services, PRC Book Printing will help you with all your printing needs. We offer high-quality services at affordable prices. We are always happy to collaborate with you to find the best printing solution for your project.

If you need hardback book printing services, PRC Book Printing is the printer you can trust. We have over 20 years of experience printing high-quality hardback short-run and long-run books.

Learn more about our services on our website, reading our customer reviews or connecting to discuss your printing needs.

Printing Services

Professional Hardcover Printing for Authors Who Demand Durability & Elegance

Hardcover book printing, also known as case binding, creates premium, durable books with rigid covers and sewn signatures that withstand decades of use. PRC Book Printing specializes in professional hardcover book printing using industry-leading Heidelberg offset presses, serving authors, publishers, and businesses nationwide from Hatboro, Pennsylvania. With 30+ years of combined expertise, owner Jacob Hope and his team deliver superior color accuracy, precise registration, and bookstore-quality results for print runs starting at 500 to 1,000 copies. Hardcover books command higher retail prices, convey quality and permanence, and remain the standard for libraries, collectors, and premium publications throughout the continental United States.

ABOUT hardcover printing

What Is Hardcover Book Printing?

What

Hardcover book printing uses case binding to create books with rigid covers made from thick cardboard wrapped in cloth, paper, or specialty materials. Interior pages are printed, folded into signatures, and sewn together before being attached to the hardcover case. This construction method produces the most durable and prestigious book format available.

Where

PRC Book Printing serves authors and publishers throughout the continental United States from our Hatboro, Pennsylvania facility, with free shipping included to any mainland US address.

Who

Hardcover printing is ideal for novelists seeking premium editions, non-fiction authors establishing authority, photographers and artists creating portfolio books, children's book authors requiring durability, publishers producing library-quality books, and businesses creating corporate publications or commemorative volumes.

When

Choose hardcover printing when your book's content justifies premium presentation, when you're targeting libraries and collectors, when durability matters for repeated use, when you want to command higher retail prices, or when building your author brand with professional-quality publications.

Why

Hardcover books offer superior durability lasting decades, professional appearance that commands respect, higher perceived value justifying premium pricing, better library sales and distribution opportunities, and impressive presentation for gifts and special editions.

How

Our process includes receiving your print-ready files, conducting pre-press review and optimization, providing digital proofs for approval, printing pages and covers on Heidelberg presses, sewing signatures and constructing case binding, applying finishing options like foil stamping or embossing, conducting quality control inspections, and delivering finished books with shipping included.

Investment

Hardcover printing costs more per unit than paperback due to materials and binding complexity, but offers substantially better margins and longevity. Starting at 500 to 1,000 copies depending on specifications, pricing becomes competitive with per-unit costs decreasing significantly at higher volumes. Request a free quote for your specific project.

Contact Us Today!

Get Quote

Check out PRC Book Printing’s Hardcover Book Printing samples:

Customizable Hardcover Book Printing Services

At PRC Book Printing, we have worked with many authors to customize the cover they want for their projects. If you are a self-publishing author, you may become easily overwhelmed by the options and decisions you have to make to print your book. Our teams of friendly professionals can help you choose the right cover style, printing and binding method, and pages to create the book you always dreamed of.

We use high-quality ink to create vibrant colors for projects like coffee table books, cookbooks, children’s books, photography books, and others.

prc book printing

Comprehensive Hardcover Printing Services

At PRC Book Printing, we’ve perfected the art and science of hardcover book manufacturing. Our combination of advanced Heidelberg offset presses, skilled craftspeople, and rigorous quality control ensures your hardcover books meet the highest standards.

Premium Case Binding Construction

Case binding represents the pinnacle of book binding craftsmanship. We construct each hardcover using time-tested techniques that create books built to last generations. Your interior pages are printed on our Heidelberg presses, then folded into signatures—typically 16 or 32 pages each. These signatures are sewn together using strong thread that holds pages securely even with repeated use.

The hardcover case is constructed separately using rigid binder’s board wrapped in your choice of materials. We offer:

Cloth binding for classic elegance and durability
Paper-wrapped covers for full-color designs and photographs
Specialty materials like leather or textured papers for unique presentations
Combination approaches using multiple materials for creative effects

The sewn signatures are then attached to the hardcover case using flexible adhesive that allows the book to open smoothly while maintaining structural integrity. This construction method creates the distinctive “lay-flat” quality of well-made hardcover books.

Superior Heidelberg Offset Printing

The printing quality of your hardcover’s interior pages and cover design determines its overall impact. Our Heidelberg 4-6 color offset presses deliver:

Consistent color accuracy across your entire print run
Sharp text reproduction even at small sizes
Rich, vibrant images with accurate color matching
True PMS spot colors for brand-accurate elements
Reliable registration ensuring perfect alignment

For hardcover interiors, we print on premium paper stocks selected for longevity and reading comfort. Color interiors showcase photographs and illustrations with exceptional fidelity. Black-and-white interiors provide crisp, readable text with professional typography. Many authors choose mixed interiors—black-and-white text with color photo sections—for cost-effective quality.

Why Choose PRC Book Printing?

PRC Book Printing is an excellent choice for authors who want to print a high-quality, beautiful book. We provide excellent printing services at competitive prices. If you are looking for a book printer that can provide you with all these things without paying a high price tag, then PRC is the right choice.

PRC Book Printing has been in business for over 20 years and has printed millions of books. We use the latest technology to publish your book, which means you will get a high-quality product that stands out on a store’s shelf. Our experience allowed us to improve our printing techniques to give our customers better and more vibrant books that readers are happy to hold in their hands.

Learn more about our team or get a quote for your hardback book printing and see why we are a leader in hardback book printing for clients. Contact us today at 888-659-8320 or fill out our online form. We are happy to answer any questions and get your project started!

PRC book printing

Extensive Customization Options

Hardcover books offer more customization possibilities than any other binding format. We work with you to create exactly the book you envision.

Cover Materials

Choose from dozens of cloth colors and textures, printed paper with lamination options, specialty papers and textured materials, or combination materials for unique effects.

Finishing Options

Enhance your hardcover with foil stamping in gold, silver, copper, or colors; embossing or debossing for dimensional effects; spot UV coating for contrast and emphasis; or custom dust jackets with full-color printing and finishing.

Interior Options

Select from various paper weights and textures, coated stocks for photo reproduction, uncoated papers for traditional book feel, color printing throughout or in sections, and custom endsheets for professional presentation.

Trim Sizes

We accommodate standard sizes like 6x9", 5.5x8.5", 8x10", and 8.5x11", as well as custom dimensions for specialized projects.

What You Should Know About Hardcover Book Printing from the Experts at PRC Book Printing

Hardcover book printing, also known as hardback, hardcase, or hardbound is the most professional type of book binding. Hardcover book printing is a printing method where the book’s cover consists of hard board material.

A hardcover book uses the case binding method, in which trimmed blocks of pages are gathered and glued together, then cased in with a stiff cardboard cover. This type of book cover works best for coffee table books, cookbooks, children’s books, and many other types of high-quality books. Hardcover book printing service usually results in a higher quality book.

The best books usually have well-designed covers and print on high-quality paper. If you are looking for a printer who can help you create a beautiful book, PRC Book Printing is your go-to choice. We specialize in hardback book printing and are happy to work with you to ensure that your hardcover book looks its best.

How do I Publish a Hardcover Book?

When publishing a hardcover book, you must choose between traditional or self-publishing. A typical publishing checklist includes:

Purchase an ISBN (International Standard Book Number).
Copyright your book.
Find an illustrator (if needed) or layout designer
Find a reliable printer (like PRC).
Find a storage or distribution facility.
Develop a marketing plan

Sixty percent of PRC’s clients are self-publishing authors, so our team has the knowledge to direct you through the essentials of publishing your hardcover book.

What’s Better: Hardcover or Paperback?

A combination of economic pressures and advances in printing technology saw the introduction of the paperback in 1935, it proved an immediate success. Authors have since had two options when taking their book to print – the classic hardcover, or the inexpensive and cheerful paperback. So, which should you, the self-published author, choose?

Choosing between a hardcover and a paperback is often a difficult decision. The answer depends on what you are looking for in a book, how you’re selling your book, your target audience, price range and type of book.

There is a lot to consider when deciding on what type of book you’re trying to create/sell. That’s where PRC Book Printing comes in to help.

Three major factors come into play when choosing between printing Paperback books or Printing Hardcover books – cost, functionality, and appeal.

Cost

Hardcover print costs can be a slightly higher than a paperback. Highly anticipated books are released in hardcover months or even years before a paperback version is released to make the greatest amount of profit possible.

Paperbacks, however, are an inexpensive and a cheerful option. A modest fraction of the cost of hardcovers, but they also damage more easily and wear out with repeated use.

Functionality

Functionality will mean different things to different readers. A hardcover is the strong and beautiful option. They are far more durable than paperbacks, and their beauty and collectability mean that they hold their value far better too.

A paperback on the other hand, is light, compact, easily transportable, can be bent and stuffed into the corner of a bag.

Think of your audience. There is a reason that Encyclopedia Britannica is printed in hardcover and Mills & Boon novels in paperback.

Appeal

The appeal of your book’s cover choice is indelibly linked to its functionality, so it’s vital that you think of how your readers will be using it. Further, the appeal of your book will also be tied to the expectations of your audience. If you publish in a sphere that favors hardcover books, then a paperback will look cheap and nasty. In contrast, a hardcover in a paperback world seems unnecessary, and will kill sales.

All market considerations aside, most people will happily admit that hardcover books have an appeal that paperbacks simply can’t match. If you are looking for something that people will want and can price it in a way that they will not be put off buying it, a hardcover is an excellent choice.

How Can we help with your hardcover book printing services?

Besides helping you customize your hardcover book and make self-publishing decisions, we can also help you determine between a hardback, paperback, board book, or case-bound style. We will also work with you throughout the entire book printing and binding process and keep you updated every step of the way. We are always open and honest about the pricing for different styles and methods.

The PRC Advantage – The Benefits of Our Hardcover Book Printing Services

Hardcover book printing is fast, easy, affordable and provides a durable, high quality professional look that can’t be matched.

Hardcover book printing through PRC offers many benefits to authors and publishers. The first benefit is our quality. Hardcover books are usually printed on high-quality paper that will not yellow or fade over time. With PRC Book Printing your book will look fantastic and last for many years due to our durable binding method and quality ink.

Hardcover books also offer an attractive printable spine. A hardcover book is the ideal choice for publications with higher page counts (48 pages up to 1050 pages), such as Photography books, coffee table, children’s books and more.

Another benefit of hardcover book printing with PRC Book Printing is that it is affordable. This is especially true when you compare it to the cost of printing a paperback book. Hardcover books sell for more money than paperbacks, meaning you can profit more from each book you sell.

If you are one of the publishing authors looking for a book printing service company that can provide high-quality, fast, and affordable hardcover book printing, PRC book printing proudly serves the entire U.S. by providing unmatched hardback book printing services.

Consider printing a cookbook filled with your family recipes, or a travel log of photographs, or even a memoir of your life story. You don’t need to be a professional writer, artist, or photographer to print your own book!

Remember, no matter where you are in the U.S., there are several advantages to choosing hardback book printing for your next project, such as:

Hardcover books are more durable than paperback books, making them ideal for frequently used books.
Hardback books are available in a wide range of sizes, from small pocketbooks to large coffee table books.
Premium print quality thanks to H-UV technology
PRC Book printing offers print on a wide variety of papers, lamination & special finishes, and art board binding options
Professional personalized advice
Over 20 years of experience and thousands of titles printed

prc book printing

Why Choose PRC for Hardcover Book Printing

Authors and publishers trust PRC Book Printing for hardcover projects that demand uncompromising quality and craftsmanship.

Three Decades of Hardcover Expertise

Our team has spent 30+ years mastering the complexities of hardcover book manufacturing. This deep experience means we anticipate challenges before they occur, optimize your files for best results, recommend cost-effective specification choices, and deliver consistent quality across every print run.

Owner Jacob Hope personally oversees hardcover projects, ensuring each book meets PRC’s exacting standards. His hands-on approach has earned PRC recognition for quality and reliability in the competitive book printing industry.

Bookstore-Quality Results

When you hold a PRC hardcover book, you’re holding a product that matches or exceeds what you’d find from major publishing houses. Our Heidelberg presses and skilled bindery team create books that:

"The quality of the finished books met all our expectations, with excellent color reproduction and crisp text reproduction throughout. Both books were printed and shipped well ahead of schedule, and only about a dozen of the 4,500 books we ordered showed flaws or damage."

One Colorado publisher noted

Transparent All-Inclusive Pricing

Hardcover printing requires significant materials and labor, but we keep costs competitive through efficient production and volume economies. Our quotes include all costs—no surprises, no hidden fees:

At 500 copies, hardcover pricing is premium but accessible. At 1,000 copies, per-unit costs drop significantly. At 2,000+ copies, hardcover becomes surprisingly affordable while maintaining the quality advantages that justify higher retail pricing.

Personal Service Throughout Production

Unlike large commercial printers where your project disappears into a production queue, PRC provides personal attention at every stage:

Jacob or Heather guide you through specification decisions
Review your files and suggest optimizations
Keep you informed during production
Address questions promptly
Ensure you're satisfied with the finished product

This personal approach is especially valuable for first-time hardcover customers who need guidance navigating material choices, finishing options, and cost considerations.

The Process of Hardcover Book Printing with PRC

At PRC Book Printing, our process is thorough and personal to every project. It is designed to meet the needs of every one of our customers.

Choose the Type of Hardcover Book You Want

We offer various hardcover book printing options at PRC Book Printing, including standard, case-bound, and dust jackets. We understand that each book is unique and requires a different printing process, so we offer a wide range of options.

Select the Paper Type

The type of paper you choose will affect the quality and look of your book. We have multiple premium paper stock to choose from, including glossy, matte, and uncoated options.

Choose Your Cover Material

The book cover is what first catches a reader’s eye, so it is crucial to choose a quality material that accurately represents your book. We offer a wide range of cover materials, including cloth, leather, and paper.

Decide on the Binding Type

Binding is what holds your book together. Various hardcover binding options we offer include Smythe Sewn case binding, PUR or perfect bound.

Select the Printing Options

Once you choose the book materials it’s time to select the printing options. We offer printing options, including sheet-fed printing and web printing.

Get a Free Quote

After deciding on the type of book you want, contact PRC Book Printing for a free quote. We will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with a price estimate.

Review and Approve Your Proof

After we receive your approval, we’ll begin printing your book with state-of-the-art equipment which produces exceptional results.

Receive Your Shipment

After we bind and pack your books, we’ll ship them to you. We offer express and standard shipping options.

our process

Our Hardcover Book Printing Process

PRC has refined a streamlined process that ensures quality results while eliminating stress and uncertainty.

STEP 1: Free Quote & Consultation

Contact us with your hardcover project specifications including:

• Trim size
• Page count
• Interior color or black-and-white
• Cover material preferences
• Quantities you're considering
• Any special finishing requirements

We'll provide detailed pricing for multiple quantities, showing you the per-unit savings at higher volumes. During this consultation, we'll also discuss options and recommend choices that optimize quality and budget.

STEP 2: File Preparation & Pre-Press Review

Submit your print-ready files for expert pre-press review. Our team examines:

• Interior page files for resolution, color mode, and proper setup
• Cover files for correct dimensions and bleed requirements
• Page count, signature alignment, and binding compatibility
• Fonts, images, and overall technical quality

If we identify potential issues, we explain them clearly and guide you through corrections. This crucial step prevents costly mistakes and ensures optimal printing results.

STEP 3: Digital Proof Approval

We provide comprehensive digital proofs showing exactly how your hardcover will print. Review:

• Interior page layout, text, and images
• Cover design and color reproduction
• Overall specifications and final appearance

We welcome questions and revision requests at this stage. Once you approve the proofs, we proceed confidently to production.

STEP 4: Heidelberg Press Production

Your hardcover goes into production on our precision Heidelberg offset presses. Experienced press operators monitor:

• Color consistency
• Registration accuracy
• Overall quality throughout the run

We print your interior pages on selected paper stock and your cover design on appropriate materials.

Production time for hardcover books typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks after proof approval, depending on specifications, quantity, and current production schedule.

STEP 5: Case Binding Construction

In our bindery, skilled technicians construct your hardcovers using traditional case binding methods:

• Pages are folded into signatures and sewn together with durable thread
• Cover boards are cut to size, wrapped in selected materials, and assembled with spine reinforcement
• Sewn signatures are attached to the hardcover case with flexible adhesive
• Finishing options like foil stamping or embossing are applied
• Final assembly includes dust jacket application if specified

This careful handwork ensures each book meets structural and aesthetic standards.

STEP 6: Quality Control & Delivery

Before shipping, we conduct rigorous quality inspections:

• Examining binding integrity and page security
• Verifying color accuracy and print quality
• Checking cover alignment and finishing
• Ensuring all specifications are met
• Confirming the count matches your order

Only hardcovers passing these inspections are professionally packaged for safe shipping. We provide tracking information and most customers receive their books 4 to 6 weeks after proof approval.

PRC book printing

Hardcover Binding vs. Perfect Binding

Understanding the differences between hardcover (case binding) and perfect binding (paperback) helps you choose the right format for your book.

Durability & Longevity

Hardcover books last decades with normal use. The rigid cover protects interior pages, sewn binding withstands repeated opening, and quality materials resist wear and aging. Libraries prefer hardcovers because they survive circulation better than paperbacks.

Perfect bound paperbacks are less durable. The flexible cover offers limited protection, glued binding can crack with heavy use, and the overall construction has a shorter lifespan. For books that will be read repeatedly or passed between readers, hardcover provides significantly better value.

Perceived Value & Pricing

Hardcover books command premium retail prices—typically 2-3 times paperback pricing—because readers perceive them as:

• Higher quality
• More permanent
• Worth collecting
• Suitable as gifts

This higher pricing means better author margins despite higher printing costs.

Paperbacks are budget-friendly for readers but offer lower margins for authors. The lower perceived value makes them harder to price above $15-20 regardless of content quality.

Best Use Cases

Choose hardcover for:

• Novels destined for library sales
• Premium editions of bestsellers
• Non-fiction establishing author authority
• Photography and art books requiring quality presentation
• Children's books needing durability
• Special editions and collector's items
• Books you want to gift or sell at premium prices

Choose perfect binding for:

• Mass market fiction at accessible prices
• Books with shorter shelf life
• Publications updated frequently
• Situations where portability matters more than longevity

Many successful authors release hardcover first for premium sales, then follow with paperback for broader market reach. This two-format strategy maximizes revenue from different reader segments.

PRC Book Printing

Hardcover Printing Specifications

Standard Hardcover Trim Sizes

6 x 9 inches - Most popular for novels and non-fiction; professional appearance; efficient for printing and shipping
5.5 x 8.5 inches - Compact alternative for fiction; slightly smaller than standard; comfortable reading size
8 x 10 inches - Popular for photo books and coffee table books; generous space for images; impressive presence
8.5 x 11 inches - Large format for art books, textbooks, and manuals; maximum image area; premium presentation
Custom sizes available - We can accommodate non-standard dimensions for specialized projects

Paper Stock Options

Interior Papers

Cover Materials

Finishing Options

Foil stamping (metallic or pigment)
Embossing/debossing
Spot UV coating
Custom dust jackets
Printed endsheets
Headbands and tail bands
Ribbon markers

We offer hardcover book printing services all across the United States

PRC Book Printing offers hardcover and hardback printing services to customers all across the United States. We will print and ship your order direct fast and our service is second to none.

For more information on our hardback book printing services, contact us at PRC Book Printing by calling 888.659.8320. You can also request a quote by filling out our online form.

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois

Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana

Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania

Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

Hardcover Book Printing FAQ’s

What is the difference between hardcover and paperback books?

Hardcover binding is created with paper wrapped around board. The joining of these two elements protect the interior book block. All of PRC’s hardcover books are Smyth Sewn and case bound, processes which provide the best longevity.

Paperback books, on the other hand, are only bound with paper instead of a hard board cover, although the cover material is usually a thicker stock than the interior pages. Paperback interior book blocks are either saddle stitched, glued, or signature sewn and glued to cover stock.

What is the difference between board books vs. hardcover books?

Board books are generally geared towards age groups 5 years of age and under; the thicker pages are easier for a young child or toddler to turn without tearing. Case binding is more common for age groups 6 and up, although PRC has produced board books for adult audiences as well upon request.

What is a hardback book?

Hardback is just another term for hardcover, or books with case binding.

How much does it cost to print a hardcover book?

The cost of producing a hard cover book depends on the trim size, paper, inks, and more. PRC Book Printing Representatives will assist in guiding you through the best options for your book, and provide transparent and cost-effective pricing.

Why are hardcover books more expensive?

Printing a hardcover book is more expensive than a paperback book due to the cost of boarding and end sheets. If printing overseas, the increase in the weight of the books will also elevate the shipping costs. The retail price of a hardcover book is generally higher, however, allowing for more profit once your book hits the stores. The PRC Book Printing team will work to get you the best price for this binding method.

Do hardcover books last longer?

The pages within a hard cover book are better protected by the boarded cover, while paperback books only have a thicker paper stock, which is more easily damaged. Hard covers tend to last longer and resist damage better than paperback books, although it will depend on how the book is cared for. PRC’s hardcover books are Smyth Sewn and then cased to provide extra longevity to your books.

How do I print my book?

The easiest solution? Contact PRC Book Printing and we’ll make the printing process easy-peasy.

faqs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum order quantity for hardcover printing?

Our minimum order quantity for hardcover books is typically 500 to 1,000 copies depending on specifications and complexity. This minimum exists because case binding requires setup, materials preparation, and skilled labor that must be amortized across the print run. At these quantities, the per-unit cost becomes reasonable while maintaining the quality that makes hardcover worthwhile. Contact us with your specific project details for exact minimum requirements and pricing.

How much does hardcover printing cost compared to paperback?

Hardcover printing typically costs $2-4 more per unit than perfect bound paperback, depending on specifications. However, hardcovers retail for $10-15 more than paperbacks, providing substantially better margins. While your upfront investment is higher, the increased retail price and better durability make hardcover more profitable for the right markets. We provide detailed quotes showing exact costs for your specific project at various quantities.

Can I print hardcover books with dust jackets?

Yes, we offer custom printed dust jackets for hardcover books. Dust jackets are printed separately on quality paper stock, finished with lamination or other coatings, and applied to your hardcovers during final assembly. Dust jackets allow for full-color covers without printing directly on cloth, provide additional protection for the hardcover, create opportunities for author photos and back cover copy, and give your book a traditional bookstore appearance. Discuss dust jacket options during your quote consultation.

What file formats do you need for hardcover printing?

We require high-resolution PDF files for both interior pages and cover design. Interior PDFs should be 300 dpi minimum, CMYK color mode (or spot colors), proper page layout and margins, and all fonts embedded. Cover files require specific templates based on your trim size, page count, and cover material choice. We provide detailed templates and specifications during the pre-press phase to ensure your files are set up correctly.

How long does hardcover printing take?

From proof approval to delivery, hardcover projects typically take 4 to 6 weeks. This timeline includes Heidelberg press production (1-2 weeks), case binding construction (1-2 weeks), quality control and finishing, and shipping to your location. Production time may vary depending on time of year, order quantity, and project specifications. During your quote consultation, we'll provide a realistic timeline based on current production schedules.

Are hardcover books better for libraries?

Yes, hardcover books are strongly preferred by libraries for several reasons. The durable construction withstands frequent circulation and multiple readers. The rigid cover protects pages from damage during handling and shelving. The sewn binding maintains integrity even with repeated use. And the professional appearance meets library quality standards. If you're targeting library sales, hardcover is the recommended format. Many libraries won't purchase paperback editions for their collections.

Can you print color photos in hardcover books?

Absolutely. Our Heidelberg offset presses deliver exceptional color reproduction for photography books, art books, and illustrated hardcovers. We work with coated paper stocks specifically designed for photo printing, ensuring accurate color matching, sharp detail and clarity, consistent results across your print run, and professional quality that showcases your images beautifully. We can print full-color throughout or create cost-effective layouts with color photo sections and black-and-white text pages.

What cover materials are available for hardcovers?

PRC offers several cover material options to match your vision and budget. Cloth binding provides classic durability in dozens of colors and textures. Printed paper wrapped covers allow full-color designs and photographs with protective lamination. Specialty materials include textured papers, faux leather, and other unique surfaces. Combination approaches use multiple materials for creative effects. During your consultation, we'll discuss material options and help you choose the best fit for your book's purpose and market positioning.

Do you offer foil stamping for hardcover books?

Yes, foil stamping is one of our most popular finishing options for hardcovers. We offer metallic foils in gold, silver, copper, and other metallic colors, as well as pigment foils in various non-metallic colors. Foil stamping can be applied to cloth-bound covers, dust jackets, and spine text. We can combine foil stamping with embossing for dimensional effects. Foil adds elegance and professionalism that makes hardcovers stand out. Discuss foil stamping options and pricing during your quote consultation.

Can I order hardcover and paperback versions of the same book?

Yes, many authors order both hardcover and paperback versions of their books using a two-format release strategy. Release hardcover first at premium pricing for collectors, libraries, and dedicated fans. Then follow 6-12 months later with paperback for broader market accessibility. This approach maximizes revenue by capturing both premium and budget-conscious readers. We can coordinate printing both formats, ensuring interior content matches while optimizing each binding format for its intended purpose. Contact us to discuss multi-format planning and pricing.

contact us

Start Your Hardcover Book Project

Ready to create premium hardcover books that command respect, last decades, and justify premium pricing? Contact PRC Book Printing for a free, detailed quote on your hardcover project.

Call us directly

888-659-8320 (Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

Email your project details

info@prcbookprinting.com

Visit our office

400 Lincoln Ave, Hatboro, PA 19040

When you contact us, have these specifications ready:

Trim size preference
Approximate page count
Interior color or black-and-white
Cover material preference (cloth, printed paper, specialty)
Quantity you're considering (500, 1,000, 2,000+)
Any finishing options you're interested in (foil stamping, embossing, dust jacket)

We’ll provide comprehensive pricing for multiple quantities, showing you the per-unit savings at higher volumes, and guide you through specification decisions to optimize quality and value.

Whether you’re publishing your first premium edition or your tenth, PRC Book Printing delivers the hardcover quality and service that makes your publishing investment worthwhile.