Understanding typesetting costs: what you need to know
So you’re ready to get your manuscript typeset… but how much does it cost? You’ve searched the internet for a price to typeset your book and not found anything concrete, and now you’re just a little frustrated. Well, let me help!
First, you can’t find a definitive price to typeset your book because it is unique! No other book can be compared to yours. A word count is not enough for you to be given a cost to typeset your manuscript.
Second, a book designer needs to see your manuscript before giving an estimate for typesetting. This is because many variables affect the time they will need to create a professional layout for your book.
Third, do you even need your book professionally formatted? That depends on how complex the book is and how familiar you may be with design software. I would recommend using a professional typesetter, but let’s look at the pricing factors.
But what is typesetting?
Well, this is a good place to start. When it comes to publishing a book, article, or any printed material, typesetting is a crucial step in the process. It’s the art and technique of arranging text, images, and other elements in a visually appealing and readable way. Typesettng involves the selection of fonts, layout design, and formatting of the copy, taking care of margins, page numbers, placement of chapter headings, body text and images, all spacing, and indents, etc, to make your book look as good as it can be. While many people focus on content and editing, typesetting costs can add up, depending on the complexity and scope of the project.
A book designer will generally typeset a few pages of your book and send these to you for your approval; their quote will indicate the number of sample designs they will provide.
What factors affect the price of interior book layout pricing?
Many factors impact the typesetting costs and need to be taken into account when budgeting for this service.
1. Project size and complexity
The size of your manuscript or project plays a big role in determining the cost of typesetting. A short brochure will cost less to typeset than a 300-page novel. Additionally, if your project includes intricate layouts, such as multiple columns, graphs, tables, or special fonts, it may require more time and expertise, thus raising costs.
2. Formatting requirements
Standard formatting, such as adjusting margins, font choices, and line spacing, is relatively straightforward and shouldn’t add much to the cost. However, if your project requires custom fonts, specialised page layouts, or unique graphic elements, these additional requirements can increase the price.
3. File presentation
In some cases, typesetters may need to clean or reformat poorly structured files. So, how your text is presented influences the price, as a book designer may need to spend time on the manuscript before the design process begins. A well-formatted Word document with headings and paragraph styles, etc, can simplify the formatting process. A novel will generally have a few different styles compared to a more visual book with subsections, different fonts and page formats, etc. A complex manuscript can affect pricing; variables that affect complexity include text and font styles, headings (chapter titles, subheadings, sub-subheadings), quotations, verse, poetry, boxed text and quotations, tables, and footnotes.
4. Images/Diagrams
The inclusion of images and diagrams will also affect the price of typesetting. The price will increase the more images/diagrams to be included and how they are named/listed in the manuscript. Any images or diagrams that need to be created, edited, or amended by your designer will also increase the typesetting price compared to if they are ready to insert.
5. Revisions and proofreading
Revisions during the typesetting process can influence the overall cost. A book designer will include the number of revisions in their estimate; additional rounds of amendments are likely to be charged at an hourly rate.
Having your book proofread multiple times before the design process begins should avoid this, but a final proofread should always be done once the layouts are complete, before you send your book to print!
6. Turnaround time
Your timeline can also affect the typesetting price. A typesetter will provide an estimate and should give you a timeline/work schedule for your project. Any delay in the presentation of the final manuscript and amendments being made at late stages can impact the project cost. Urgency can also impact typesetting costs. So, if you need your project completed within a tight timeframe, a rush fee may apply (possibly an additional 20–50%).
Book cover design
Don’t overlook your book cover; it needs to be enticing and professionally designed. Some typesetters can also design your book cover, or you could commission a professional cover designer.
You may have an image to use or have an idea in your head. If you need a complex design or an illustration, then you will need a bespoke service, and this will be more expensive than using a simple image. Your typesetter or cover designer will create your cover using your chosen image and the back cover copy. Again, your estimate should specify the number of mock-ups that will be provided. If using a cover designer, the artwork needs to be supplied to the typesetter in the correct format and spine size for printing.
So, as you can see, there are a lot of variables that a book designer needs to consider when estimating the cost of formatting your book's interior layout! However, typesetting is an essential step in making your content look professional and polished. While the costs can vary depending on the scope and specifics of your project, understanding the factors that influence pricing can help you budget more effectively. By considering the complexity, formatting needs, file preparation, and potential revisions, you can ensure you get the best value for your typesetting investment. If getting more than one estimate for your book layouts, ensure you compare what each book designer is offering. Oh, and don’t forget, I offer editing, typesetting and proofreading services.
I hope this helps xx
If you’re an aspiring author looking to publish your book, I'm here to polish your words and create a professional, reader-friendly publication for you. I would love to support you on your publishing journey.
Contact me for an editing and typesetting estimate; let’s make your book shine!
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