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Take Your Project to the Next Level with a Linen Hardcover

Posted on 21 August 2023
linen cover hardback journal printing

Introduction to Linen Hardcover Book Printing

Welcome to the world of hardcover book printing with linen covers! If you’re looking to create a professional, durable, and visually stunning book, linen covers are an excellent choice. In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of hardcover book printing, providing you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to bring your vision to life. From choosing the right materials to avoiding common mistakes, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover the art of linen hardcover book printing together!

What You Will Learn:

  • A comprehensive understanding of linen hardcover book printing
  • Inspiration from Ex Why Zed’s videos
  • Real case studies of projects by Ex Why Zed
  • Guidance on choosing the right cover materials from winter-company.com
  • Considerations for pricing
  • Overview of linen hardcover book printing services and support options
  • Common mistakes to avoid in hardcover book printing
  • Key takeaways

A Deep Dive into Linen Hardcover Book Printing

In the world of book printing, hardcover books have gained popularity for their timeless and elegant appearance. If you’re considering printing your work with a linen cover, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will take a deep dive into book design and provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions.

Linen hardcovers involve using a high-quality fabric for the book’s cover. This fabric gives the book a unique texture and durability. Not only does it protect the pages inside, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to your artwork book.

At Ex Why Zed, we understand the importance of creating visually appealing work, including children’s books, notebooks and self published projects. Our experienced team will guide you through the entire process.

When it comes to the highest quality hardcover books, Ex Why Zed is a leader in the industry. Our video inspiration and case studies showcase the outstanding craftsmanship and attention to detail that we bring to each project, ensuring high quality results. Whether you’re printing a novel, a photobook, or a special edition, our printing services will exceed your expectations.

Choosing the right cover material is crucial for the success of your book. That’s why we partner with Winter & Company, a renowned supplier of premium bookbinding materials. Their extensive collection of materials, including specialist book binding cloth and endpapers, ensures that we can provide you with a wide range of options to suit your preferences and creative vision.

linen hardcover book printing

When it comes to pricing and shipping, we understand that every project is unique. That’s why we offer flexible pricing options to accommodate your budget and requirements. Our transparent pricing policy ensures that you have a clear understanding of the costs involved, with no hidden surprises. Whether you’re looking to create a wedding album or any other type of photo book, we’ve got you covered.

At Ex Why Zed, we not only provide stunning printing but also offer comprehensive customer service options. Our team of experts is always available to answer your questions, offer guidance, and provide solutions to any challenges you may encounter along the way, including the latest version of our printing technology.

Any questions, do give us a shout, remember we are here to help on email, phone and live chat.

Before embarking on your print journey, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes to avoid. From improper cover design to choosing the wrong fabric, we have seen it all. Our article on common mistakes will equip you with the knowledge to ensure a flawless printing process.

In conclusion, linen hardcover book printing is a fantastic option for authors and publishers looking to create visually stunning and durable books. With Ex Why Zed’s expertise and commitment to excellence, you can trust that your publication will leave a lasting impression on readers.

Ex Why Zed Case Studies

At Ex Why Zed, we take great pride in the quality of our printing services. We have had the pleasure of working with numerous clients, helping them bring their vision to life and create stunning coffee-table publications.

We will be honest, all of the options below have set up costs of at least £480 which is the cost of the material plus the cost of the foiling. The printing and binding is in addition to this, so for small print runs, you could consider a printed cover instead or switch to a soft back, paperback.

Here are a few case studies that showcase our expertise:

Buried in the English Earth by Chris T-T

216x135mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto Winters Black Buckram binding cloth
Wrapped over greyboard case
Silver foiling to cover and spine
+
Dust Jacket with 100mm fold out flaps from front and back cover.
Full colour single­-sided
onto 170gsm Silk
Matt Lamination to outer

A superb book and the silver foil onto Black Buckram works well. It does also have a dust jacket too (only for print runs of 700 copies+) but we’re not fans of these because it obscures the great linen cover beneath.

Material Book Cover with Foiling Example
My Vulva and I Lydia Reeves Book

Lydia Reeves Art Photography Book

260x210mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto WBN501 Cotton White with gold foiling

The Cotton White is a smooth, luxury feel cover material that is great to stroke and the gold foiling adheres well on the surface, debossing every so slightly.

Michal Augustini – 1st Three No Flash

258x210mm Casebound Books
Cover onto 135gsm G F Smith Colorplan Ebony
with Black Gloss Foil Wrapped over greyboard case

This combination of black foil and black Colorplan just oozes class. The title is subtle but visible and comes alive when tilted towards the light.

Michal Augustini First Three No Flash
Take Your Project to the Next Level with a Linen Hardcover Ex Why Zed

Kirsty Whiten Shooketh Artist Catalogue

258x210mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto Wibalin Natural Kingfisher plus foiling (Matt Cream Clipper 485) down the spine.

This is Wibalin Natural is a smooth sheet from Winter & Company so the foil applies effectively. There are slight imperfections, but this is something that does occur with foil and coarse material – it gives it character and is certainly more impressive than just sending out PDFs.

In Bohemia by Willem Jaspert

253x210mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto Wicotex Dunkengelb.
Wrapped over greyboard case
Red foiling to outer.

Still one of the most impressive hardback books we have printed at Ex Why Zed. The red foil onto the mustard yellow material cover is an absolute winner. We are now moving into more textured cover materials and the edges of the letterforms do start to display little idiosyncracies and imperfections – rather than being crystal sharp.

In the A you can see slight picking and some of the background colour coming through where the red foil hasn’t managed a completely opaque finish.

red foiling book cover Brillianta cloth
Take Your Project to the Next Level with a Linen Hardcover Ex Why Zed
Close Up of Foil on Linen Book Binding Cloth
Close Up of Linen Hardcover Book

Francesco Marchetti – The Art of Spectating

297x250mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto Wicotex Brillianta 4003 Light Grey.
Foilco 6125 foiling to outer.

The Brillianta Sheet is coarse and has a tactile surface. This does make foiling harder than if you were to use Wibalin Natural. Expect some inconsistencies and do ask us before you go ahead what would be the best foil to use – some are a load more robust with a backing that works far better on this textured material.

Comparison of 3 Off White Cover Materials

Here we have three options for a white or off-white material with foiling:

My Recipe Journal
A5 Casebound Books
Cover onto Wibalin Fine Linen with gold foiling

My Day Journals
A5 Case Bound Books
Cover onto Cotton White Wibalin Natural
Gold foiling to outer

My Vulva and I Art Book
260x210mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto WBN501 Cotton White with gold foiling

The full range of cover binding materials from Winter & Company can be seen here.

different linen cover options

At Ex Why Zed, we work closely with Winter & Company to ensure you have access to the highest quality cloth covers for your linen hardcover books.

Winter Company is a renowned supplier of high-quality cover materials, including linen, that can elevate the look and feel of your project. With their range of options, you can find the perfect cover material to match your vision.

We buy all of our materials from Winter & Co so do take a look through their book cloth range for hundreds of options on texture, finish and colour:

This is good for a coloured smooth option:

https://www.winter-company.com/en/products-a-z/wibalin/natural

And for more texture, check out:

https://www.winter-company.com/en/products-a-z/wibalin/buckram/

These cannot be printed onto so any content, like a logo or title, will need to be foiled. To be transparent from the off, the material will be around £180-220 and the foiling adds a further £280. So while it will make for a visually great hardback book, it is an expensive addition on small print runs.

(If you are working to a budget and need to keep the price down, consider printing your children’s books, wedding guest book or journal as a paperback. You can have your own printed cover from your custom illustrations or photography then we’ll add a matt, gloss of soft touch lamination to stop the graphics getting scuffed in the binding process).

Factors To Consider

When selecting your cover material, consider factors such as colour, texture, and durability. Winter Company offers a variety of linen options, ranging from bold and vibrant colours to subtle and sophisticated shades. The texture of linen adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your book, making it visually appealing and tactilely satisfying.

Additionally, linen is a durable material that can withstand the test of time, ensuring that your book remains in excellent condition even after multiple readings or years on the shelf. This durability is essential for any book that aims to be cherished and passed down through generations.

There are an equal number of options when it comes to the foil colour. We source our foils from Foilco, enjoy browsing their website do take a look around at their gold, silver, copper and extensive colour range.

So, whether you’re printing a novel, a photography book, or a special edition collector’s item, Winter Company’s linen cover materials will give your book that extra touch of class and sophistication.

Choosing the Perfect Cover Materials

When it comes to hardcover book projects, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right cover materials. The cover sets the tone for your book and creates a lasting impression on your readers. So, how do you make the right choice?

So how do you choose the perfect cover material for your book? Here are a few factors to consider:

1. Colour:

Winter & Company offers an array of vibrant and subdued colours to suit your book’s aesthetic. Whether you prefer bold and eye-catching hues or a more understated palette, you’ll find the perfect shade.

2. Texture:

The texture of the linen fabric can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your book. From rough and rustic to smooth and refined, Winter & Company provides an extensive range of textures to cater to different preferences.

3. Matt, Gloss, Foil and Premium Finishes:

Consider the desired finish for your book cover. You can choose from options like matte, glossy, or even metallic finishes to achieve the desired effect.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a cover material that perfectly complements your book’s content and resonates with your target audience.

Foiling on Linen Cover Spine

Linen Hardcover Book Printing Services and Support Options

Ex Why Zed is the go-to provider for all your needs. We offer a range of services and support options to ensure that your linen hardcover book is printed to perfection.

At Ex Why Zed, we understand the importance of high-quality printing materials, which is why we use only the finest covers for our hardcover books. Linen not only gives your book a touch of elegance and sophistication, but it also provides durability and longevity.

Our experienced team of printing professionals will guide you through the process, helping you choose the perfect material or maybe even advising that a printed cover would be a better option for the aesthetic you are aiming to achieve. With a wide variety of colours and textures available, you can find the ideal cover to complement your book’s content and style.

In addition to our top-notch printing services, we also offer competitive pricing packages to fit your budget. We believe that high-quality printing should be accessible to everyone, so we strive to provide affordable options without compromising on quality. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is always ready to answer your questions, offer guidance, and provide assistance throughout the entire process.

So why wait? Experience the difference of printing with Ex Why Zed. Contact us today to get started on your next literary masterpiece!

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Linen Hardcover Book Printing

While linen hardcover book printing can create stunning and high-quality books, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid to ensure a successful printing process. By steering clear of these pitfalls, you can save time, money, and frustration, and achieve the best possible results.

1. Poor Artwork Design and Layout

One of the biggest mistakes is neglecting the design and layout. A poorly designed book can leave a negative impression on readers and may not effectively convey your message or story. To avoid this, invest time in planning and creating a visually appealing layout that aligns with your content.

2. Choosing the Wrong Material

The choice of material plays a crucial role in the overall look and feel of your linen hardcover project. It’s important to select a high-quality linen material that complements your content and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your book. Take the time to explore different options and consult with professionals to ensure you make the right choice.

3. Ignoring Binding and Luxury Finishing Techniques

Binding and finishing techniques can greatly impact the durability and presentation of your linen hardcover book. Ignoring these aspects can result in books that fall apart easily or lack a professional finish. Consider options such as Smyth sewn binding or foil stamping to add strength and sophistication to your book.

4. Neglecting Proofreading and Editing

Even the most beautifully designed linen hardcover book can be marred by typos, grammatical errors, or confusing content. Neglecting proofreading and editing can tarnish your reputation as an author or publisher. Always allocate sufficient time and resources for thorough proofreading and editing to ensure a polished final product.

5. Failing to Test Print

Before committing to a large print run, it’s essential to test print a sample of your linen hardcover book. This allows you to identify any potential issues with color accuracy, image quality, or formatting. By catching these issues early on, you can make necessary adjustments and prevent costly mistakes.

6. Inadequate Communication with the Printer

Clear and effective communication with your printer is key to a successful linen hardcover book printing project. Make sure you provide them with detailed specifications, including dimensions, colour requirements, and any special instructions. Regularly check in with the printer throughout the process to ensure everything is on track.

Avoiding these common mistakes can make a significant difference in the quality and success of your linen hardcover book printing. By investing time and attention to detail, you can create beautiful and impactful books that captivate readers and leave a lasting impression.

FAQs

What are the benefits of choosing linen hardcover for book printing?

Choosing linen hardcover for book printing offers several benefits. Linen is a durable and high-quality material that provides a professional and elegant look to your books. It also offers resistance to wear and tear, making it perfect for long-lasting and beautiful book covers.

How Long Does Shipping Take?

We will send your books by tracked courier so they arrive in the UK the day after they leave us. While we are in the United Kingdom, we ship to The States and Europe every day too and will provide options on shipping depending on whether speed or cost is the most important factor. Best to allow a good two weeks for linen cover books under 500 copies. Litho printed linen cover books with section sewing usually take 3-4 weeks (700 copies or more). We get exceptionally busy in later September to December time so plan ahead and if your book needs to be delivered before Christmas allow plenty of time to ensure the artwork is set-up correctly and extra 1-2 weeks for production.

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