Coffee Table Book Printing

Coffee Table Book Printing and Inspiration

Get A Quote

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

PRC Printing Services

The Best Coffee Table Book Printing Service Available

You dream of creating a stunning coffee table book that people are delighted to showcase in their homes. You’ve assembled perfect high-resolution photos and written informative, inspirational copy that makes your coffee table book a delight to read.

Now you need a printing service that has the passion and attention to detail that your project requires. Among the many coffee table book publishing companies, PRC Book Printing stands out for its craftsmanship, reliability, and dedication to quality. We are committed to providing you with the high-quality service you need to create the decorative coffee table books of your dreams.

Start wowing your readers with your coffee table photo books today. Learn more about our service and order yours today.

Printing Services

Coffee Table Book Printing for Photographers and Artists

Coffee table book printing creates large-format, premium-quality books designed to showcase photography, artwork, and visual content with exceptional reproduction quality and substantial physical presence. PRC Book Printing, a family-owned book manufacturer serving photographers, artists, and publishers nationwide since 2012, specializes in producing coffee table books that do justice to your visual work through superior color accuracy, heavy paper stocks, professional binding, and premium finishing. With over 30 years of combined printing expertise, our team understands the exacting standards photographers and artists demand—from precise color matching to paper selections that enhance image quality.

Coffee table books are statement pieces intended for display and repeated viewing. They represent your best work and your artistic vision, requiring manufacturing quality that matches the care and skill you invested in creating the photographs or artwork they showcase.

Fast, Customizable Coffee Table Book Printing Services

Commitment to Excellence

We pride ourselves on our attention to detail. We use environmentally sustainable materials, the best binding practices, and high-quality printing, so your images are vibrant and crystal clear. Your hardcover coffee tables will be durable and look beautiful for years to come.

Fast & Affordable Service

PRC is committed to providing the best price for your book printing needs so you can make the most profit when selling your product. We also offer expedited service at our American-based production facility so that you can get your custom coffee table books onto shelves and into homes fast.

How Our Process Works:

Step 1: Author an Amazing Coffee Table Book

Do research, assemble stunning photos, share inspiring stories, and edit, edit, edit. Once you are happy with your book’s content, it’s time to start the printing process.

Step 2: Design Your Book

Choose the binding, layout, and size of your book. We are here to answer any questions if you get stuck on formatting your order.

Step 3: Place Your Order

Providing transparent pricing and offer a minimum order of 250 copies, so it’s easy to stick to your budget. Once you have selected the number of copies, go ahead and place your order. We will get started right away on your book.

Step 4: Envision a Coffee Table Book Bestseller

Once you receive your order, the rest is up to you. When you use our printing services, book stores will be delighted to have your book on their shelves. People will be lining up to get a copy of your quality work.

Why Choose PRC Book Printing?

cloth cover coffee table book printing china

PRC - The Best Hardcover Book Printing Services Company

We have the experience and dedication you need to bring your customer coffee table book to life. We have been servicing the writing community for more than a decade and have produced millions of books for traditional publishing houses and self-published authors. We have low order minimums but can also accommodate large volume orders.

How Much Does It Cost to Print Coffee Table Books?

Many factors go into the cost of coffee table book printing, including the type of cover and the number of books ordered. But we are committed to providing affordable pricing for your coffee book table project. Give us a call to find out how affordable our printing services can be.

Create Coffee Table Books Today

If you are ready to publish a coffee table book but don’t know where to start, contact us today to learn more about our affordable service. We are always eager to help.

prc book printing

Why Photographers and Artists Choose Our Coffee Table Book Printing

Superior Color Reproduction for Visual Excellence

Color accuracy makes the difference between coffee table books that merely show your work and books that truly represent it:

Precise color matching ensures that the colors you captured or created appear accurately in print. We use carefully calibrated offset printing processes, proper color management workflows, and regular press monitoring to maintain color accuracy throughout production. Your sunset's warm golds, landscape's rich greens, or portrait's accurate skin tones print as you intended.
Consistent color across all copies means every book looks identical. Color variation between books would be unacceptable in premium publications—buyers comparing books would notice differences. Our quality control ensures the first book matches the thousandth book.
Wide color gamut reproduction captures subtle color variations and rich saturation. We use high-quality inks and optimized press settings that reproduce as much of your original color range as possible within CMYK printing limitations.
Proper black density and shadow detail preserve the depth and richness in darker image areas. Weak blacks or crushed shadows diminish photographic quality. Our press work maintains proper tonal range from highlights through midtones to deep shadows.
Color profile management from your files through final printing ensures colors translate correctly. We work with industry-standard color profiles and can accommodate specific color space requirements for photography and fine art reproduction.

Premium Paper Stocks That Showcase Your Work

Paper selection dramatically impacts how images appear and how books feel:

Heavy coated papers (typically 100# to 150# text weight) provide the substantial feel coffee table books require while offering smooth surfaces that maximize image sharpness and color vibrancy. These papers have weight you can feel—they convey quality through their substance.
Gloss coated papers deliver maximum color saturation and vibrancy, making images pop with intensity. Gloss coating creates reflective surfaces that enhance color depth and make photographs feel more dimensional. Most coffee table books use gloss coating for its visual impact.
Matte coated papers offer sophisticated alternative with reduced glare while maintaining excellent image quality. Matte papers provide more neutral presentation and work particularly well for fine art, architectural photography, and images where reflections might distract from content.
Satin or semi-gloss options provide middle ground between gloss vibrancy and matte subtlety. These papers offer good color saturation with less glare than full gloss.
Paper brightness and whiteness affect color appearance significantly. We use premium papers with high brightness ratings that provide neutral white backgrounds, ensuring colors appear true rather than shifted by off-white or cream base tones.

Large Format Capabilities

Coffee table books typically use generous dimensions that give photography and artwork room to breathe:

Common coffee table book sizes
11" × 11" (square format, very popular)
12" × 12" (larger square)
10" × 13" (landscape orientation)
11" × 14" (substantial landscape)
9" × 12" (slightly smaller landscape)
13" × 11" (horizontal format)
Custom sizes for specific visions

Large format printing requires specialized equipment, precise registration, and careful handling throughout production. Our presses accommodate oversized sheets needed for coffee table book dimensions while maintaining print quality edge to edge.
Full-bleed layouts where images extend to page edges (with no white borders) create immersive visual experiences. We handle bleeds properly, ensuring images print edge-to-edge without white slivers at trim edges.
Double-page spreads spanning facing pages create panoramic presentations of 20"+ width for dramatic impact. Proper binding and press work ensure spreads align precisely with minimal image loss in gutters.

Professional Hardcover Binding

Coffee table books demand binding quality matching their premium content:

Case-bound hardcover construction provides durability and substantial feel appropriate for books intended as display pieces and lasting references. Rigid covers protect interior pages and communicate quality immediately.
Dust jacket options create polished presentation while allowing cover design to wrap continuously around the book including spine and back cover. Dust jackets print on heavy paper stock with protective coating.
Printed case covers (design printed directly on book board, typically with protective overlay) offer alternative to dust jackets. Printed cases eliminate dust jacket shifting and create clean, permanent cover design.
Lay-flat binding options allow books to open completely flat for uninterrupted spread viewing. This specialized binding is particularly valuable for coffee table books where panoramic double-page spreads showcase key images.
Premium endpapers printed with designs, photographs, or solid colors add finishing touch. Endpapers provide opportunity for additional visual elements or elegant simplicity.

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

PRC Book Printing

Coffee Table Book Specifications

Format and Size Options

Popular dimensions
11" × 11" square (versatile, accommodates various subjects)
12" × 12" square (large format for maximum impact)
10" × 13" landscape (horizontal orientation for landscapes, architecture)
11" × 14" landscape (substantial size for portfolios)
9" × 12" portrait (vertical orientation for portraits, fashion)
Custom dimensions for specific artistic visions

Paper and Material Choices

Interior paper stocks

100# gloss text (standard coffee table book paper)
100# matte text (reduced glare, sophisticated)
100# satin/semi-gloss (balanced approach)
130# or 150# coated (ultra-premium weight and feel)
Mixed weights (heavier paper for photo sections, lighter for text)

Cover Materials

Cover finishing

Gloss or matte lamination
Spot UV coating (selective gloss on matte base)
Soft-touch lamination (velvet tactile experience)
Embossing or debossing
Foil stamping (title, author name, design elements)

Color and Printing Quality

Full-color CMYK printing throughout maintains consistent quality and color accuracy across all pages.
Color management from properly prepared files (CMYK color mode, embedded color profiles, 300 DPI minimum resolution) through calibrated printing ensures colors translate accurately.
Press monitoring maintains color consistency throughout print runs with regular density checks and adjustments.
Proof options available to verify color accuracy before committing to full production—highly recommended for photography and art books where color fidelity is critical.

our process

Our Coffee Table Book Printing Process

STEP 1: Project Consultation and Quote (1-2 days)

Contact us with your coffee table book specifications: trim size, page count, paper stock choice, binding preference (dust jacket or printed case), finishing options, and quantity. We'll provide detailed quote breaking down all costs transparently.

For photographers and artists, we discuss color management requirements, paper recommendations based on your image types (landscapes, portraits, black and white, fine art), and finishing options that enhance your work's presentation.

STEP 2: File Preparation and Color Management (Your timeline)

Coffee table books require meticulous file preparation:

Color mode requirements: All images must be CMYK (not RGB). RGB images appear different when converted to CMYK for printing. Proper conversion using appropriate color profiles is essential for color accuracy.

Resolution requirements: 300 DPI minimum at final print size. Lower resolution creates soft, blurry images unacceptable in premium photography books. Large format printing reveals resolution deficiencies that might be acceptable in smaller formats.

File organization: Pages prepared as properly sized PDFs with correct dimensions, bleeds (0.125" beyond trim on all sides for full-bleed images), and safety margins for text (keep text 0.25" from trim edges).

Spread management: Double-page spreads require special attention—images must extend properly across gutter with allowance for binding. We provide specifications for spreads.

Color profile embedding: Embed appropriate CMYK color profiles in your files so our prepress workflow interprets colors correctly.

Our prepress team reviews your files comprehensively, checking resolution, color modes, bleeds, and potential printing issues. We alert you to concerns before production begins.

STEP 3: Proof Review (Highly Recommended - adds 1-2 weeks)

For coffee table books, we strongly recommend physical proofs:

Color accuracy verification: See actual printed colors on actual paper stock before committing to full production. Screen displays cannot predict printed appearance accurately—physical proofs are essential for color-critical work.

Paper and finish evaluation: Experience how your images look on chosen paper with selected lamination or coating. Different papers and finishes affect color appearance and overall presentation significantly.

Binding and layout confirmation: Review actual bound book to confirm spreads align properly, lay-flat binding functions correctly, and overall construction meets expectations.

Final approval confidence: Physical proofs provide certainty before expensive production runs. Making corrections after printing thousands of books is costly—proofs help avoid that scenario.

STEP 4: Production (4-6 weeks)

Coffee table book production involves specialized processes:

Large-format printing on offset presses with careful color management and regular quality monitoring throughout runs.

Quality control includes checking registration (image alignment), color consistency, print density, and overall print quality at multiple points during production.

Hardcover binding with case construction, interior page binding, and dust jacket or cover finishing application.

Final inspection before packaging ensures books meet quality standards for premium publications.

We do not offer rush production services. Premium coffee table book manufacturing requires proper time for color management, large-format printing, hardcover binding, and quality control. Rushing risks compromising quality your work deserves.

STEP 5: Delivery and Satisfaction

Completed coffee table books are carefully packed to prevent damage during shipping. We use appropriate packaging for large-format books and coordinate delivery timing to meet your needs.

Upon arrival, inspect books promptly and contact us immediately with any concerns. We want you completely satisfied with how your photography or artwork appears in final printed form.

faqs

Common Coffee Table Book Printing Questions

What's the minimum order quantity for coffee table books?

Minimum order quantities for hardcover coffee table books typically range from 500-1,000 copies depending on specific size, page count, and finishing requirements. Large-format coffee table books often require these minimums to justify specialized setup and materials. The substantial investment reflects coffee table books' premium positioning and typically higher retail prices.

How long does coffee table book production take?

Production typically requires 4-6 weeks from final file approval to delivery. This timeline accommodates large-format printing requirements, hardcover binding complexity, and thorough quality control appropriate for premium publications. Rush production services are not available—quality coffee table book manufacturing requires adequate time at each production stage.

Should I use RGB or CMYK color mode for my images?

You must use CMYK color mode for all images. Cameras capture in RGB and screens display RGB, but printing uses CMYK inks. RGB-to-CMYK conversion causes color shifts—blues, greens, and vibrant colors often shift noticeably. Convert images to CMYK using proper color profiles during your design process so you see how colors will print. Working in RGB until printing causes disappointing surprises when colors don't match your expectations.

What paper weight should I choose for my coffee table book?

We recommend 100# or heavier coated paper for coffee table books. 100# gloss text is most common, providing excellent image quality, good feel, and reasonable page count without excessive bulk. 130# or 150# papers create ultra-premium feel with very substantial pages but add weight and bulk. Consider your page count—heavier papers work better in books under 150 pages, while 100# works well through 200+ pages.

Should I choose gloss or matte paper for photography?

Gloss paper delivers maximum color saturation and vibrancy, making photographs feel more intense and dramatic. Most coffee table books use gloss because buyers expect vivid presentation. Matte paper offers sophisticated alternative with reduced reflections, working particularly well for fine art, black-and-white photography, or images where glare might be problematic. Consider your photography style and target audience—gloss for mainstream appeal, matte for sophisticated fine art positioning.

How do I ensure accurate color in printed books?

Start with properly color-managed workflow: calibrate your monitor, work in CMYK color mode with embedded profiles, use 300 DPI images, and provide properly prepared files. Beyond file preparation, order a printed proof before full production. Proofs show actual colors on actual paper, allowing adjustments if colors don't match expectations. Color proofing is essential for photography books where color accuracy matters.

Can I print some pages on different paper than others?

Yes, we can manufacture books with different papers in different sections—perhaps heavier paper for main photo galleries and lighter paper for text sections. However, this adds complexity and cost. Most coffee table books use single paper stock throughout for simplicity and consistent appearance. Discuss mixed paper stocks during consultation if your concept requires it.

What's the difference between dust jackets and printed case covers?

Dust jackets are printed separately and wrap around hardcover books, allowing design to extend across front, spine, and back continuously. They create traditional high-end book appearance and can be removed. Printed case covers have design printed directly on book board (typically with protective overlay), creating permanent cover that won't shift or be removed. Both approaches work well—choose based on aesthetic preferences and how you want your book presented.

Should I use lay-flat binding for my coffee table book?

Lay-flat binding (also called lay-flat or PUR binding) allows books to open completely flat without holding, which is excellent for viewing double-page spreads without image loss in gutters. This specialized binding adds cost but significantly improves user experience for coffee table books with important panoramic spreads. If your book features many critical spreads, lay-flat binding is worthwhile investment. If most images are single pages, standard case binding works well.

How do I prepare files for large format double-page spreads?

Double-page spreads require images that extend across both pages (left and right) with gutter allowance. We provide specific templates showing exact dimensions, gutter width, and bleed requirements. Important image elements should avoid the binding area (typically 0.25" on each side of center) where slight image loss occurs. Horizon lines and critical elements should not fall exactly at center binding. Follow our spread specifications carefully to ensure proper results.

PRC book printing

Coffee Table Book Design Best Practices

Image Selection and Sequencing

Curate ruthlessly: Coffee table books should showcase your absolute best work. Every image must justify its inclusion—mediocre images diminish overall impact. Better to have fewer pages with consistently excellent images than more pages with variable quality.

Thoughtful sequencing: Order images intentionally—by theme, chronologically, color relationships, or narrative flow. Random sequencing feels disjointed. Consider pacing with quiet images following dramatic ones, establishing rhythm throughout the book.

Variety and consistency: Balance variety (different subjects, compositions, colors) with visual consistency (unified style, cohesive editing). Too much variety feels chaotic; too much similarity becomes monotonous.

Opening and closing impact: First and last images create strong impressions. Choose opening images that immediately capture attention and closing images that provide satisfying conclusions.

Layout and Design Considerations

Let images breathe: Coffee table books can afford generous white space. Don't overcrowd pages—give strong images space to command attention.

Full-bleed vs. bordered layouts: Full-bleed images (extending to page edges) create immersive experiences. Images with white borders provide breathing room and traditional presentation. Many books mix both approaches strategically.

Typography: Use minimal, elegant type that doesn't compete with images. Coffee table books are visual first—text should support rather than dominate.

Pacing: Vary page layouts—single images, paired images, small detail shots, double-page spreads—to maintain visual interest through the book.

Technical Specifications

Consistent image treatment: All images should receive similar editing treatment for color, contrast, and tonality unless intentional variations serve specific purpose.

Proper resolution: Every image must meet 300 DPI requirement at final print size. Check this carefully—insufficient resolution ruins otherwise excellent photography.

Color profiles: Use consistent CMYK color profile throughout. Adobe RGB or ProPhoto RGB working spaces converted to same CMYK profile ensure color consistency.

Bleed and safety: Full-bleed images must extend 0.125" beyond trim. Keep important image elements away from trim edges. Text and critical elements need 0.25" safety margin.

contact us

Ready to Print Your Coffee Table Book?

Showcase your photography or artwork in premium coffee table books that do justice to your creative vision. Whether you’re a professional photographer, fine artist, or publisher creating visual publications, PRC Book Printing delivers the color accuracy, material quality, and manufacturing expertise your work deserves.

Request Your Free Coffee Table Book Quote

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

Our office hours

Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST

Let’s discuss your coffee table book project, review paper and finishing options, and provide a detailed quote that helps you create a stunning showcase for your work.