Children’s Book
Publishing Services
for Indie Authors
From manuscript to published picture book — with illustration, design & guidance at every step.
At The Painted Acorn, I help independent authors turn their stories into
beautiful, professional picture books. Whether you need illustration only or
full publishing guidance, I’ll help you bring your vision to readers with clarity,
care, and confidence.
Choose Your Path
The Sprouting
Acorn
For authors who already have illustrations but need a clean, professional layout and help preparing their book for print.
Includes:
• Custom book layout and typography
• Front/back/cover-spine design
• Formatting for print & digital
Timeline: 3–5 weeks
Add-ons: Alternate cover mockups, promo graphics
Add-On Options
(Available with any tier)
• Promo templates for social & launch graphics
• Book mockups for web & store display
Ideal for: Authors who are ready to format and launch their book.
Children’s Book Publishing Support
The Growing
Oak
Ideal for: Authors who have a manuscript and need illustration only.
For authors who need custom illustrations tailored to their story, characters, and tone — whether whimsical or quiet, wild or gentle.
Includes:
• Character & environment development
• sketches, revisions, and full-color illustrations (cover + interior spreads)
• Full-spread illustrations (colour or B&W)
• Print-ready illustration files
Timeline: 6–12 weeks
Add-ons: Cover design, page layout, alternate formats
Add-On Options
(Available with any tier)
• Promo templates for social & launch graphics
• Book mockups for web & store display
Custom Illustration Services
The Mighty
Oak
Full-Service Self-Publishing Package
Ideal for: Authors who want their full book brought to life with one creative partner.
A start-to-finish creative collaboration — everything from illustration to layout and publishing preparation, handled with care.
Includes:
• All services from The Growing Oak + The Sprouting Acorn
• Final print-ready files for IngramSpark, KDP, or your preferred printer
• Optional launch graphics & creative guidance
• Custom back matter (Dedication, Author Note, etc.)
Timeline: 10–16 weeks
Add-ons: Cover design, page layout, alternate formats
Add-On Options
(Available with any tier)
• Promo templates for social & launch graphics
• Book mockups for web & store display
📚Not sure if you need a book designer? Here’s when it makes a difference.
Professional Memberships
I am a proud member of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), the Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers (CANSCAIP), and the Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC).
These affiliations reflect my commitment to professionalism, community, and ethical practices in both illustration and independent publishing. Being part of these organizations helps me stay connected to industry standards, creative peers, and the ever-evolving world of children’s literature — so I can better support the authors and stories I work with.
These affiliations reflect my commitment to professional, heart-led publishing & Design.
