How to Choose the Right Trim Size and Paper for Your Book
If you’re self-publishing, trim size and paper choices aren’t just technical details—they shape how your book looks, feels, and even how much it costs to print and ship.
Here’s how to make the right choices:
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**Trim Size Basics**
Trim size refers to the final dimensions of your book. The most common for trade paperbacks is 6” x 9”. That’s standard, but you can choose others depending on genre and audience.
- **5.5” x 8.5”** – Slightly smaller and more compact. Good for fiction.
- **6” x 9”** – Standard for nonfiction, self-help, and memoir.
- **8.5” x 11”** – Ideal for workbooks, planners, or illustrated books.
Your trim size affects page count and printing cost—smaller trim = more pages.
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**Paper Options**
Amazon KDP and IngramSpark both offer a few key options:
- **White paper** – Best for nonfiction and text-heavy books. It looks crisp and professional.
- **Cream paper** – A softer look, often used for novels and memoirs. Easier on the eyes.
- **Color printing** – Required for full-color books like children’s books or workbooks, but much more expensive.
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**Other Details That Matter**
- **Bleed vs. No Bleed** – Bleed allows your content or background to run to the edge of the page.
- **Ink type** – Black & white vs. full color. Keep your expenses low unless color is necessary.
- **Finish** – Matte or glossy cover? Matte feels modern; glossy is more vibrant.
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**Action Step:**
Check similar books in your genre. What trim size and paper do they use? Choose what aligns with your content and your reader’s expectations.
