How to create a book that sells: A Guide for Self-Publishing Authors
- Sara Garper
- Feb 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 9
Congratulations! You’ve finished writing your book—a huge accomplishment. But before you hit “publish,” have you considered how your book design will impact its success? Whether you’re launching your first novel, a non-fiction book, or a poetry collection, professional book design is the key to making your work stand out in a competitive market.
As a professional freelance book designer, I help self-publishing authors transform their manuscripts into visually compelling books that attract readers. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essential elements of great book design and why hiring a professional can make all the difference.
Why Professional Book Design Matters
We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” But let’s be honest—readers do. A poorly designed book can turn potential readers away before they even read the first page. Here’s why professional design is crucial:
First Impressions Count – Your cover is the first thing a reader sees. A high-quality, professionally designed cover increases credibility and appeal.
Readability Matters – Thoughtful typography, spacing, and formatting make reading enjoyable and seamless.
Marketability & Sales – Well-designed books perform better in online marketplaces and attract more positive reviews.
Key Elements of Great Book Design
Whether you’re publishing in print, digital, or both, these elements are essential:
1. Cover Design
Your cover is your book’s first salesperson. A professional cover designer considers:
Genre expectations
Typography and color psychology
High-quality imagery and composition
2. Interior Layout & Formatting
Even the best-written book can feel amateurish if the interior isn’t well-designed. Key factors include:
Proper font selection for readability
Consistent margins and spacing
Chapter headings and page numbering
Formatting adjustments for print vs. eBook
3. Illustrations & Graphics
If your book includes images, charts, or illustrations, they must be high-resolution and properly placed to enhance the reading experience.
Common Book Design Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes I often see from DIY book design attempts:
✘ Using unprofessional or generic fonts not suited for their audience
✘ Poor spacing and alignment of text
✘ Inconsistent paragraphs and character styles
✘ Low-resolution images or improperly sized graphics
✘ Ignoring print vs. eBook formatting differences
These mistakes can make your book look unpolished and unprofessional. But don’t worry—this is where hiring a professional comes in!
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Book Designer
Some authors choose to design their own books using online tools, but here’s why working with a professional can save you time and frustration:
✔ Expertise – A professional understands design principles and publishing standards and adapts your idea to your target audience. ✔ Time-Saving – Focus on writing while a designer handles the layout.
✔ Quality Assurance – A well-designed book enhances credibility and reader experience.
Think of it this way—just as you invest in professional editing, investing in professional design ensures your book is polished and ready for the world.
Find the Differences
I’ve had the pleasure of working with many self-published authors who saw a significant difference after professional design. Here you can see the manuscript alongside the final version and their differences. Which one feels more like a book to you?
Ready to Elevate Your Book’s Design?
Your book deserves the best chance of success. If you’re ready to give your book a professional edge, let’s chat! I offer custom book design services tailored to your genre and audience.
Contact me today for a free consultation!
Let’s transform your manuscript into a beautifully designed book that readers will love.
