Creating Your Kid's Book Layout and Choosing a Template: A Guide
In the world of self-publishing children's books, practicality and cost-effectiveness often guide the format choices, with paperback and ebook formats being the most popular options [1]. Two platforms, Amazon KDP Print and IngramSpark, offer a variety of size options for children's books, providing authors with the opportunity to add visual variety and support the pacing of their stories [2].
When designing a children's book, it's essential to consider size and orientation, as these factors will affect how the illustrations are planned and how the book is structured. Common layout options for paperback children's picture books typically involve standardized 32-page formats with specific arrangements of single pages and double-page spreads [3].
One common layout choice starts the story on a single right-hand page (odd-numbered page), with the title page on page 1, the copyright (and possibly dedication) on page 2, and the story beginning on page 3. Another popular option begins the story on a left-hand page (even-numbered page), allowing for a double-page spread opening. This layout involves a half title page on page 1, the copyright on page 2, the title page on page 3, and the story beginning on page 4 [3].
Pages 1 and 32 are usually single pages, with pages 2 to 31 designed as double-page spreads to accommodate illustrations and text cohesively. The final page (page 32) in self-published versions must remain blank to allow space for barcode placement during printing, particularly on platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark [1].
In terms of physical size, children's picture books often come in square or landscape formats with popular dimensions such as 7.5” x 7.5” or 8” x 8”, 10” x 8”, 6” x 9”, or 8.5” x 8.5” [2][4][5].
To ensure a well-designed book, creating a physical "dummy" or mock-up of the book before finalizing digital layout is a crucial step. This helps visualize page turns, placement of text relative to illustrations, and confirm that spreads align properly without costly errors [3].
When it comes to hardcover books, endpapers (extra pages added to the front and back) are used in some cases to attach the printed content to the cover. For self-published authors, it's essential to note that a self-ended hardcover book has its first and last pages glued to the inside of the cover, making pages 1 and 32 unusable for content [6].
When designing a children's book, illustration notes can help authors capture their vision while it's still fresh, saving time and reducing misunderstandings with illustrators [7]. A clear children's book template from the start can save time and help the story come together faster, whether it's your first book or your fifth [8]. A book dummy or a rough storyboard can also help authors visualize the flow of the story and how it will sit on the pages [8].
For authors considering shorter hardcover books, IngramSpark allows for 32- and 40-page formats [9]. Every page or spread in a picture book should carry a small piece of the story [10]. Common page layouts include full-bleed pages, full-bleed two-page spreads, vignettes, and spot art pages [10].
In summary, effective picture book design balances standard page counts and sizes with thoughtful placement of story starts (single page vs. full spreads) and ensures the final page is blank for printing requirements. Creating a dummy prototype is a crucial step for layout accuracy. With careful planning and consideration, self-published children's books can be both visually appealing and cost-effective.
[1] https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/G201082090 [2] https://www.ingramcontent.com/resources/self-publishing/book-size-options [3] https://www.createSpace.com/Content/book-design-guidelines [4] https://www.blurb.com/uk/b/714608-childrens-book-design-guide [5] https://www.lulu.com/content/en/guides/book-design/childrens-books/creating-a-childrens-book [6] https://www.selfpublishingadvice.org/hardcover-book-design/ [7] https://www.selfpublishingadvice.org/illustration-notes/ [8] https://www.selfpublishingadvice.org/childrens-book-design/ [9] https://www.ingramcontent.com/resources/self-publishing/book-size-options [10] https://www.selfpublishingadvice.org/childrens-book-design/
- To enhance a lifestyle of self-publishing, it's important for authors to consider not only the digital format of their children's books, but also the physical size and layout.
- When planning a children's book, Using a clear template, creating a physical dummy, and incorporating illustration notes can help authors maintain their vision and speed up the production process.
- In the realm of fashion and beauty, the presentation of self-published children's books is crucial, with popular sizes like 7.5” x 7.5” or 8” x 8”, 10” x 8”, 6” x 9”, or 8.5” x 8.5” being common choices.
- For those looking to explore travel destinations with their pets, planning a well-designed children's book can serve as an engaging aide, with each page or spread gently revealing the story in formats such as full-bleed pages, full-bleed two-page spreads, vignettes, and spot art pages.
