How to Obtain a Physical Copy of Your Book Without Formal Publishing

How to Obtain a Physical Copy of Your Book Without Formal Publishing

Introduction

If you have written a book and wish to have a physical copy without going through the traditional publishing process, you have several options available to you. These methods range from using print on demand services to printing it yourself with a local print shop. In this article, we will explore the various ways to achieve your goal, along with the steps involved in each process.

Print on Demand (POD) Services

Print on Demand (POD) services allow you to print your manuscript and order physical copies for personal use, without the need to make it available for sale. Some popular POD services include Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and Lulu. Here’s how to use these services:

Upload your manuscript to the platform of your choice. Order your desired number of copies. These copies are printed and shipped to you as needed.

These services are ideal for those who want a tangible copy of their work without the commitment of selling it.

Local Print Shops

Local print shops offer a convenient option for printing your manuscript. Many of these shops provide book printing services, allowing you to customize your book by choosing the size, binding, and cover type. Here’s how you can use a local print shop:

Visit a local print shop. Show them your manuscript and discuss your customization options. Make your selections, whether it's book size, paper type, binding style, or cover design. Place your order and wait for your copies to be printed.

This method gives you creative control over the final product, but it may require more time and visits to the shop.

Self-Publishing Software

Self-publishing software like Blurb or BookWright allows you to design your book and order copies directly from their platform. Here’s how to use these tools:

Create an account with the chosen software. Design your book, including cover and layout. Upload your manuscript and format it as necessary. Place your order for the desired number of copies.

This method offers a streamlined process, suitable for those who want to self-publish and have a physical copy.

DIY Printing

If you have access to a good printer, you can print the pages yourself and bind them using basic methods like spiral binding or a three-ring binder. Here’s how to DIY:

Print your manuscript on high-quality paper. Assemble the pages, either binding them with a spiral binding machine or using a three-ring binder. Add a cover and any finishing touches you desire.

This method is budget-friendly and allows for complete control over the final product.

Additional Considerations

While printing your book without formal publishing is a great way to get a physical copy, there are a few things to keep in mind:

No ISBN: Since your book is not formally published, it will not have an ISBN number. No Publication Date: Your book will also lack a publication date. Copyright: You automatically hold the copyright to your work, but registering it with your local government can provide additional protection. No Stealing: While your book can be reproduced, the lack of ISBN and publication date makes it less likely to be stolen by unauthorized parties.

Demo: Blurb - A great example of self-publishing software that offers print-on-demand options for creating a physical copy of your book.

Conclusion

No matter your choice, obtaining a physical copy of your book without formal publishing is achievable through various methods, including POD services, local print shops, self-publishing software, and DIY printing. Each option has its own advantages, and the decision should be based on your budget, creative control, and intended use.