Children Book Printing

High-Quality Children’s Book Printing Services

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Children's Book Printing

Bring Your Children's Stories to Life with Vibrant Color & Durable Construction

Children’s book printing requires exceptional color accuracy, durable binding that withstands enthusiastic young readers, and professional quality that appeals to parents and gift-buyers. PRC Book Printing specializes in children’s picture book printing using industry-leading Heidelberg offset presses, serving authors and publishers nationwide from Hatboro, Pennsylvania. With 30+ years of combined expertise, owner Jacob Hope and sales & production manager Heather Kustra—who has extensive experience guiding children’s book authors—deliver vibrant illustrations, sharp text, and bookstore-quality results for print runs starting at 500 to 1,000 copies. Our children’s books feature rich color reproduction, sturdy construction for repeated readings, and professional presentation that helps your story stand out in the competitive children’s book market throughout the continental United States.

Printing Services

CUSTOM CHILDREN’S BOOK PRINTING from PRC

Children’s book printing is our specialty for large publishing groups and self-publishers. PRC Book Printing offers several binding techniques for kids books.

Reading develops a child’s imagination, so imagine the efforts in designing, marketing, and finding the ideal Children’s Book Printing company.

PRC Book Printing dominates in print quality, four color, and special sized custom children’s book printing projects.

Self-Publishing Children’s Book Authors

Authors who have created a children’s book that they know deserves more attention are encouraged to look into self-publishing with PRC Book Printing Service.

This company has helped countless authors expand their audience by allowing them a non-traditional avenue to publication, and specializes in maintaining the rich color and eye-grabbing illustrations of some of the best and most beloved children’s picture books.

PRC Book Printing Service employs a team of experts devoted to helping the authors of children’s picture books to find their audience and spread their message and work further than any other independent printing source.

When it comes to choosing a company for children’s book printing, it helps to see samples of a company’s previous works.

The appeal of a children’s book relies on the printer’s ability to retain the vivid textures and colors of the illustrations that help to tell the story.

After all, picture books are intended for children who are not yet able to read as well as adults, and photos and color help to keep them engaged with the story.

PRC Book Printing Service has a number of examples up on their site so authors will know exactly the type of service that they’re getting when they trust their printing with them.

ABOUT children's book printing

What Is Children's Book Printing?

What

Children's book printing creates full-color picture books with professional-grade color reproduction and durable binding designed for young readers ages 3-12. Most children's picture books use hardcover case binding for durability, though paperback options exist for chapter books and budget editions.

Where

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

Who

Children's book printing serves debut authors launching their first picture book, established authors building a series, illustrators showcasing their artwork, publishers producing quality children's literature, educators creating learning materials, and organizations developing books for literacy programs.

When

Choose professional children's book printing when your illustrations deserve superior color reproduction, when durability matters for library sales and repeated readings, when you're ready to compete with traditionally published children's books, or when targeting the gift market where quality influences purchasing decisions.

Why

Professional children's book printing offers vibrant color accuracy that brings illustrations to life, durable construction that survives enthusiastic young readers, bookstore-quality presentation that appeals to parents and gift-buyers, library-grade binding that withstands circulation, and professional credibility that helps secure reviews and retail placement.

How

Our process includes receiving your print-ready files with high-resolution illustrations, conducting pre-press review optimizing color and image quality, providing digital proofs showing actual color reproduction, printing on Heidelberg presses with precise color matching, binding with durable case binding or perfect binding, conducting quality inspections, and delivering finished books with shipping included.

Investment

Children's book printing costs reflect the premium color printing and durable binding required for the market. Starting at 500 to 1,000 copies depending on specifications, per-unit costs decrease significantly at higher volumes. Request a free quote for your specific project including page count, trim size, and binding preference.

Contact Us Today!

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Why Print with PRC for Children's Picture Books?

Children’s book printing China or domestically; PRC’s customer service principles are high quality same as our products!

While you’re self-publishing children’s picture books, we will assist with binding options, papers, inks and other details in the quote and the production and the production process.

As your children’s book printer we stand out from our competitors, offering clear communication, detailing your book budget with no hidden costs and personalized attention.

We guide you through the steps to print your own children’s book. There are many types of children’s products we produce.

We produce custom children’s book printing with various bindings for children’s hardcover books, children’s softcover books, board books, flash cards, card games, board games, and much more.

We are one of the premier children’s picture book printers in China and the USA. When you work with PRC Book Printing we offer the best of both worlds.

prc book printing

Comprehensive Children's Book Printing Services

At PRC Book Printing, we understand the unique requirements of children’s books. Young readers are tough on books, parents scrutinize quality, and illustrations must leap off the page to capture attention.

Vibrant Full-Color Printing on Heidelberg Presses

Children’s books live or die by their illustrations. Our Heidelberg 4-6 color offset presses deliver the color accuracy and vibrancy children’s illustrations demand. Consistent color matching across your entire print run ensures every book looks identical. Accurate skin tones, bright primary colors, and subtle gradients all reproduce faithfully. Rich, saturated colors make illustrations pop off the page. Sharp detail reproduction captures fine linework and texture. True color matching to your digital files or color proofs.

Unlike lower-quality digital printing where colors shift between print runs, our offset printing maintains consistent quality whether you’re printing 500 or 5,000 copies. This consistency matters enormously for series books where readers expect matching appearance.

Durable Binding for Active Young Readers

Children don’t treat books gently. They drop them, sit on them, stuff them in backpacks, and read favorites until pages loosen. Our binding construction anticipates this rough handling. Hardcover case binding with rigid boards protects interior pages from bending and damage. Sewn signatures hold pages securely even with repeated opening. Flexible spine adhesive allows books to open fully without cracking. Rounded spine edges resist wear at stress points. Quality materials ensure books survive years of reading.

For chapter books and budget editions, we offer perfect binding with reinforced PUR adhesive that outperforms standard glue binding. Many children’s book authors start with hardcover for libraries and gifts, then add paperback editions for classroom and budget markets.

For the youngest readers (babies and toddlers), we also offer board book printing as a separate service featuring ultra-thick pages and indestructible construction designed for teething and rough play.

Premium Paper Stocks for Children's Books

Paper choice dramatically affects how illustrations appear and how books feel in young hands. We offer several options optimized for children’s books.

100# or 128# gloss coated provides maximum color vibrancy and smooth finish that makes illustrations shine. Colors appear most saturated on gloss paper, creating eye-catching pages that engage young readers. Gloss coating also resists fingerprints and minor spills.

100# or 128# matte coated delivers excellent color reproduction without glare, making it easier for reading aloud under various lighting. Matte finish feels more premium and ages better than gloss coating.

80# coated offers a cost-effective middle ground for budget-conscious projects while maintaining good color reproduction.

Heavier paper weights create books that feel substantial and durable—important quality signals for parents making purchasing decisions.

Flexible Format Options

Children’s books come in many formats, and we accommodate the full range. Standard 8.5″ x 11″ provides generous space for full-page illustrations and comfortable reading for story time. Popular 8″ x 10″ offers excellent illustration space in a slightly more compact format. Square formats like 8″ x 8″ or 10″ x 10″ create distinctive, eye-catching presentations. Horizontal (landscape) orientation works beautifully for panoramic scenes and two-page spreads. Custom sizes available for unique creative visions.

Most children’s picture books run 32 pages (the industry standard) though we accommodate 24, 28, 40, or 48 pages depending on your story needs.

Children’s Book Printing Services in the USA

Remembering as a child snuggled in your favorite blanket enthralled in that magical story, being a self-publisher children’s books author the yearn to produce your own children’s book story; there are a few considerations when ready to print a children’s book project:

Consider the age group of the audience?
Picture books with few words, many words or a novel book?
Illustrations with vibrant colors or delicate imagery?

Binding a children’s book when the author is making the decision on the age group along with the audience they plan to capture helps determine the edging. Whether toddlers, middle schoolers and teens the binding can be decided how the class will handle the books. PRC will guide you with the best binding for your book project. Binding options for your custom children’s book: case bound, side-sewing, saddle stitch, perfect bound , and board book bound.

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.

Children’s hardcover books

Our children’s hardcover books are made durable for the abuse that is given from the little readers. A standard children’s hardcover book is Smyth sewn and case bound, which provides longevity from the constant turning of pages.

Side Sewn is not the typical hardcover binding, this option provides the book to lay flat while reading. You can incorporate to your custom children’s book with a dust jacket, the flaps adds further writing about the book and the author.

Children’s hardcover book printing binding features can be furthered view on our hardcover book printing tab. As classy as a photography book think about the cloth cover option.

Children’s softcover books

Children’s softcover books have two options of either Saddle stitch or perfect bound printing. When producing the saddle stitch books, we offer a special lamination which makes the cover of the books lay flat and not curl.

Bending is a big concern when producing a children book, which we have perfected in our methods over the years.

For children’s books we use extra glue for more durability. We also have an option to make the books stronger with sewing.

Children’s board book printing

Children’s board books are produced widely in the industry; mainly because they are more durable then the saddle stitch and perfect bound books.

If your book has few words and illustrations to get the point across to our new little learners, the best binding method is board book printing. The little hands of a child sometimes have tribulations turning a thinner paper stock.

Using board book printing the thick pages make it easier for turning the pages, along with the tearing issues that can arise. The durability for board books is a hot sale! These types of books are great for children ages new born to age 4.

Board books are produced in many sizes and shapes. Shapes are created using a die-cutting machine, which can have your book stand out from the standard book.

Producing children’s books

Producing and printing a children’s book printing USA or in China provides, custom book sizes, offers many attention grabbing techniques at low-cost prices.

PRC representative will guide you through the wellbeing of your book when producing a children book printing China. The turn-around time to print a children’s book in China is typically 12-13 weeks after proof approval.

If seeking a quick timetable we are partners with a USA team offering production schedules estimated 3-5 weeks.

Binding Options

These options will help on your children’s book printing & binding options. Determining the binding of your audience; Age groups 5 years of age and under may consider board book binding which offers the aid of turning pages of the little angel hands. Contact PRC Book Printing today to help you as a self-publishing children’s picture books and assist with your book idea. Our most popular binding method for children’s books are children’s hardcover book printing & board book printing services.

We are a children book printing in Asia book printer; our turn around via boat shipping is about 9 weeks. Is there a minimum for children’s book printing; yes. We can offer competitive pricing with quantities of 1000 or more. Many of our clients produce several titles which can save costs by making different book sets for re-sale.

Printing children’s books

In the past if you were interested to print your own children’s book, you had to shop around with publishers and hope that someone, eventually might not reject you.

In this generation self-publishing children’s picture book does take time for marketing, advertising and getting your book in front of readers.

Children’s book printing services in China will save you costs that can be added toward your profits.

PRC BOOK PRINTING

Why Choose PRC for Children's Book Printing

Children’s book authors trust PRC Book Printing for projects where quality and color accuracy make the difference between success and disappointment.

Expert Guidance from Heather Kustra

Sales & production manager Heather Kustra has extensive experience working with children's book authors, particularly first-time publishers navigating specifications, timelines, and quality decisions. Authors consistently praise Heather's responsiveness, attention to detail, and ability to answer questions clearly.

One Massachusetts children's book author shared: "I worked with Heather who was very professional and responsive to questions about size, cost, color, timeline and shipping." Her expertise helps you make confident choices about paper, binding, finishing, and other specifications that affect both quality and budget.

Color Accuracy You Can Trust

Children's book illustrations represent months of artistic work. Our Heidelberg presses and color management systems ensure your illustrations print exactly as intended. We provide digital proofs showing actual color reproduction before production begins. Our press operators monitor color consistency throughout production. We use high-quality inks that maintain vibrancy and resist fading. Color matching to Pantone standards available for brand colors and specific hues.

One children's book author noted: "I could not have been happier with how all of the books turned out" after printing multiple titles with PRC.

Bookstore-Quality Results

When parents compare your book to traditionally published children's books in stores, yours should look equally professional. Our quality matches major publishers, libraries purchase with confidence, bookstores display proudly, and parents recognize the quality that justifies your pricing.

Transparent Pricing & Timeline

Children's book printing involves premium color printing and materials, but we keep costs competitive through efficient production. Our quotes include all costs with no surprises: pre-press work and color optimization, premium coated paper stocks, full-color Heidelberg offset printing, durable binding (hardcover or perfect binding), quality control inspections, professional packaging, and shipping to any continental US address.

Production typically takes 4 to 6 weeks after proof approval for hardcover picture books, with timelines varying based on specifications, quantity, and time of year.

our process

Our Children's Book Printing Process

PRC has refined a streamlined process specifically for children’s book authors who need guidance and quality assurance.

STEP 1: Free Quote & Consultation

Contact us with your children's book specifications: trim size and page count, hardcover or paperback preference, quantities you're considering (500, 1,000, 2,000+), any special finishing like spot UV or embossing. Heather or Jacob will provide detailed pricing for multiple quantities and discuss options that optimize quality within your budget. During this consultation, we'll share recommendations based on what works best for children's books in your target age range.

STEP 2: File Preparation & Pre-Press Review

Submit your print-ready PDF files for expert pre-press review. Our team examines illustration files for resolution (300 dpi minimum required), color mode (CMYK for accurate printing), proper bleed and page setup, text legibility and placement, and overall technical quality.

High-resolution illustrations are critical for children's books. We'll verify your files meet quality standards and identify any issues requiring correction. This step prevents disappointing color or clarity problems after printing.

STEP 3: Digital Proof Approval

We provide comprehensive digital proofs showing how your children's book will print. Review illustration color reproduction and vibrancy, text clarity and placement, overall page layout, and final specifications. We welcome questions and revision requests at this stage. Once you approve proofs, we proceed to production with confidence your book will meet expectations.

STEP 4: Heidelberg Press Production

Your children's book goes into production on our Heidelberg offset presses. Experienced press operators monitor color consistency across your entire print run, ensuring book #500 matches book #1. We print on your selected premium coated paper stock using high-quality inks formulated for vibrant, accurate color reproduction.

STEP 5: Binding & Finishing

In our bindery, skilled technicians bind your children's books using methods designed for durability. For hardcover picture books, signatures are sewn and attached to rigid case covers constructed with quality materials. For paperback editions, we use reinforced perfect binding with PUR adhesive for maximum strength. Any special finishing options like spot UV coating, embossing, or foil accents are applied with precision.

STEP 6: Quality Control & Delivery

Before shipping, we conduct rigorous inspections verifying color accuracy throughout the print run, checking binding integrity and page security, examining overall quality and appearance, and confirming quantities match your order. Only books passing inspection are packaged professionally for safe shipping. Most customers receive their children's books 4 to 6 weeks after proof approval, depending on specifications and production schedule.

Why choose us

Children's Book Printing Specifications

Popular Children's Book Trim Sizes

8.5 x 11 inches: Standard picture book size providing generous illustration space and comfortable reading for story time. Most common format.
8 x 10 inches: Slightly more compact while maintaining excellent illustration area. Popular alternative to 8.5x11.
8 x 8 inches (square): Distinctive square format that stands out on shelves and works beautifully for certain illustration styles.
10 x 10 inches (square): Larger square format for coffee table-style children's books or books with detailed illustrations requiring maximum space.
9 x 12 inches (horizontal/landscape): Panoramic format perfect for books with wide scenes and two-page spreads.

Binding Options

Hardcover case binding: Premium durability, library-quality construction, best for ages 3-8 picture books and gift market positioning.
Perfect binding paperback: Cost-effective alternative for chapter books, classroom editions, and budget-conscious projects.
Board books: For ages 0-3, see our separate board book printing service featuring ultra-thick pages and indestructible construction.

Standard Page Counts

Most picture books use 32 pages (industry standard), though 24, 28, 40, and 48-page options available depending on story length.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum order quantity for children's books?

Our minimum order quantity for children's picture books is typically 500 to 1,000 copies depending on specifications and binding type. Hardcover picture books generally require 500-1,000 copy minimums due to case binding setup. This minimum ensures quality while keeping per-unit costs reasonable. Contact us with your specific project details for exact minimum requirements and pricing.

How much does children's book printing cost?

Children's book printing costs vary based on trim size, page count, paper weight, binding type, and quantity. A typical 32-page, 8.5x11" hardcover picture book on 100# coated paper costs approximately $4-$7 per book at 1,000 copies, with per-unit costs decreasing at higher volumes. Paperback editions cost less. We provide detailed quotes showing exact costs for your specifications at various quantities so you can make informed decisions.

Can you match specific colors in illustrations?

Yes, our Heidelberg presses deliver excellent color matching for children's book illustrations. We work in CMYK color mode for standard printing and can match Pantone spot colors for brand-specific elements requiring exact color. During the proof stage, you'll see how your illustrations will print, allowing color adjustments before full production begins. Our press operators monitor color consistency throughout your print run.

What file format do you need for children's books?

We require high-resolution PDF files with illustrations at 300 dpi minimum. Your files should be in CMYK color mode (not RGB), include proper bleed (0.125" beyond trim size), have all fonts embedded, and be set up as single pages or two-page spreads depending on your layout. We provide detailed file preparation guidelines and templates during the pre-press phase to ensure your files are optimized for printing.

How long does children's book printing take?

From proof approval to delivery, children's book projects typically take 4 to 6 weeks for hardcover picture books. This includes Heidelberg press production, case binding construction, quality control, and shipping. Paperback editions may be slightly faster. Production time varies 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.

Do you offer spot UV or embossing for children's books?

Yes, we offer several finishing options that enhance children's books including spot UV coating for contrast and tactile interest, embossing or debossing for dimensional effects, foil stamping in various colors, and soft-touch lamination for premium feel. These finishing touches can make your children's book stand out on store shelves and feel special in young hands. Discuss finishing options during your quote consultation.

Can you print board books for babies and toddlers?

Yes, we offer board book printing as a separate service specifically designed for ages 0-3. Board books feature ultra-thick pages, rounded corners for safety, and indestructible construction designed for teething and rough handling. Our children's picture book printing service focuses on ages 3-12 with traditional page construction. Contact us to discuss which format best suits your target age range and story.

Should I print hardcover or paperback for my children's book?

Hardcover works best for ages 3-8 picture books targeting libraries, gift markets, and premium positioning. Libraries strongly prefer hardcover, parents perceive hardcover as higher quality for gift-giving, and durability justifies higher retail pricing. Paperback works well for ages 8-12 chapter books, classroom sets and school book fairs, budget editions of picture books, and cost-conscious first printings. Many successful children's book authors release hardcover first, then add paperback later for different markets.

Do you work with first-time children's book authors?

Absolutely! Heather Kustra specializes in guiding first-time children's book authors through the printing process. She'll help you understand specifications, recommend optimal choices for your book and budget, answer questions about timelines and logistics, and ensure your first book printing experience is positive. Many first-time authors return to PRC for subsequent books because of the personalized guidance and quality results.

Start Your Children's Book Project

Ready to bring your children’s story to life with vibrant color and professional quality that competes with traditional publishers? Contact PRC Book Printing for a free, detailed quote on your children’s book 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 (8.5×11″, 8×10″, square, etc.), page count (typically 32 pages), hardcover or paperback preference, quantity you’re considering (500, 1,000, 2,000+), and any finishing options you’re interested in.

We’ll provide comprehensive pricing for multiple quantities and guide you through specification decisions to create the best children’s book for your budget and market goals.

Whether you’re publishing your first picture book or your tenth, PRC Book Printing delivers the color accuracy, durability, and professional quality that makes your children’s book successful.

Children Book Printing

Get A Quote

Bring Your Children's Stories to Life with Vibrant Color & Durable Construction

CUSTOM CHILDREN’S BOOK PRINTING from PRC

Self-Publishing Children’s Book Authors

What Is Children's Book Printing?

What

Where

Who

When

Why

How

Investment

Contact Us Today!

Why Print with PRC for Children's Picture Books?

Comprehensive Children's Book Printing Services

Vibrant Full-Color Printing on Heidelberg Presses

Durable Binding for Active Young Readers

Premium Paper Stocks for Children's Books

Flexible Format Options

Children’s Book Printing Services in the USA

Children’s hardcover books

Children’s softcover books

Children’s board book printing

Producing children’s books

Binding Options

Printing children’s books

Why Choose PRC for Children's Book Printing

Expert Guidance from Heather Kustra

Color Accuracy You Can Trust

Bookstore-Quality Results

Transparent Pricing & Timeline

Our Children's Book Printing Process

STEP 1: Free Quote & Consultation

STEP 2: File Preparation & Pre-Press Review

STEP 3: Digital Proof Approval

STEP 4: Heidelberg Press Production

STEP 5: Binding & Finishing

STEP 6: Quality Control & Delivery

Children's Book Printing Specifications

Popular Children's Book Trim Sizes

Recommended Paper Stocks

Binding Options

Standard Page Counts

Frequently Asked Questions

Start Your Children's Book Project

Call us directly

Email your project details

Visit our office