Should You Use a Print-on-Demand Service for Your Children’s Book?
By Kezzia Crossley
Self-publishing a children’s book means making dozens of decisions—and one of the biggest is how you’ll print it. Many indie authors consider print-on-demand (POD) for its convenience and low upfront cost. But is it the right fit for a picture book?
Let’s break it down.
What is Print-on-Demand?
Print-on-demand is a service where books are printed only when they’re ordered—no bulk inventory, no warehouse, no upfront printing bill. Platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark offer POD options for self-publishers.
Pros of POD for Children’s Books
No minimums or storage – You don’t need to print 500+ books in advance.
Global distribution – Easily list your book on Amazon and other retailers.
Low upfront investment – Pay as you go, which reduces financial risk.
Updates are easier – Need to fix a typo later? Just upload a new file.
Cons of POD for Children’s Books
Print quality can vary – Especially with colors, paper weight, or binding.
Higher per-book cost – Margins may be thinner compared to bulk printing.
Limited trim size options – You’re constrained to what the platform supports.
Less special features – Matte finishes, foil, embossing, or board books aren’t available.
So, Should You Use It?
If you’re launching your first book, want to test the waters, or need a budget-friendly option—POD is a great start.
But if your book is highly visual, color-sensitive, or you want a boutique-quality product for markets like craft fairs or bookstores, it might be worth investing in offset printing down the line.
At The Painted Acorn
I help authors format and prepare their books for both print-on-demand and traditional printing, so you can choose the right path for your project without guessing. From file prep to layout and trim sizing, we’ll make sure your book looks beautiful no matter how it's printed.
Kezzia Crossley is a Canadian illustrator and independent publishing partner behind The Painted Acorn. She helps self-publishing children’s book authors bring their stories to life with heartfelt illustrations, thoughtful layout, and handcrafted book design. Learn more at thepaintedacorn.ca