Preparing Your Manuscript PDF

What type of file do I need to upload for my book?

Please upload your final, formatted PDF file, ready for submission to your printer or publisher. The printed edge designs are generated based on your document's exact dimensions and page count. Any changes to your manuscript (e.g., page number, trim size) after the designs have been generated will require you to re-generate your printed edges to ensure a perfect fit.

Image Requirements for Printed Edges

What image sizes do I need to use?

After you upload your manuscript, our system will provide the specific image dimensions we recommend for your printed edges. You can use any image editing software to create these images. If you upload images that do not match the recommended sizes, our software will automatically scale and resize them to fit the book edges. Always review the generated edge preview (including the watermarked proof) before making your final purchase.

Can I use different images for the front and back edges?

Yes, you can! You have the option to upload separate images for both the "right-to-left" (when flipping pages forward) and "left-to-right" (when flipping backward) page directions. Our preview displays the combined edge view (as when the book is closed) and the individual edges as if the book were open from each direction. While it is possible to use distinct images, we recommend starting with the same image in both directions so that the combined edge is easily readable and recognizable on a bookshelf.

The images I uploaded are displaying in the wrong orientation, how do I fix that?

Use the Rotate slider associated with each image. After adjusting your image's orientation, generate a new PDF preview and book preview to double check their direction.

Do I have to upload images to all sides?

No, you are not required to provide images for both page directions. You have the flexibility to upload a single image or two distinct images, as desired.

How wide of an area should my images cover on the edges?

The default width of the image area we apply to the edges is 5 pixels. This default has been found to provide a clear result for most designs. However, you can adjust the width of this area from 1 to 50 pixels to suit your specific needs. We strongly advise testing your watermarked proof with your printer to ensure that the binding process does not cut off more than necessary.

Previewing and Testing

Can I preview my design before purchasing?

Yes! A watermarked PDF proof is available for download. You should use this to test with your preferred printer and binding method. This step is crucial to confirm the design looks exactly how you want it, in real print. Our 3D preview is an estimate based on a standard print paper and your book’s page count, but variations in paper thickness may alter your design slightly. If you encounter issues or require design customization, please contact us at printededges@gmail.com.

Payment and File Security

Is the payment process secure?

Absolutely. We use Square to process all payments, offering you a range of secure payment options. Upon completing your purchase, you'll be redirected to a confirmation page and your finalized PDF file will be accessible in your user dashboard.

What happens to my files after I upload them to the website?

All uploaded PDFs and images are automatically deleted from our server within 24 hours. However, if you complete a purchase, your PDF and edge previews are stored on our secure server and made available in your user dashboard for future access. You can permanently delete these files from your dashboard at any time. Once deleted, we cannot recover them. Therefore, we recommend keeping your files until you have confirmed that the final printed result is satisfactory.

Further Assistance

Other Questions?

For any other inquiries, please feel free to contact us at printededges@gmail.com. We are happy to provide assistance and explore any additional feature requests.