Self-publishing authors often look at ways to improve their look and feel of their book. One way you can do this is through thicker paper. IngramSpark (open to self-publishers and small presses) has just introduced 105 gsm paper stock. This stock (in white) would be the pick if you have colour plates in your book or simply want a quality feel for your non-fiction book.
Interior book layout / formatting can also improve the final result of your book. With a well-spaced book, including each new section on a right hand page, it can expand and improve the overall look of it. Extra leading (line spacing) can also help improve the legibility for readers. We recommend 1.25 line spacing (16 pt leading) with use of a serif font.
You can request a colour sample from IngramSpark to be sent in the mail, or I can show you the samples.
What About POD Commissions?
Some clients have asked about commissions that are taken by the Print on Demand platform. Yes, your resulting royalty payments do alter if there is a ‘sale’ / discount at the retailer side. When I asked IngramSpark about their rather high one-off print/post costs, they responded:
“The publisher compensation is based on the list price the publisher sets, minus the wholesale the publisher sets, minus the printing cost. IngramSpark/Lightning Source would only make a profit for the print cost.”
Except of course the wholesale is set at 55% if you’re going with IngramSpark, and is recommended if you want to sell to bookstores. If your book pricing-to-royalty model isn’t working, then set it at 40 or 50%. Nonetheless, through Thorpe-Bowker,  you can set a nice discount for orders from libraries and schools. I like to give libraries a 20% discount from retail, so I calculate that and put it in the net retail price.
If you get a publishing package from Power of Words, we help you fill in your MyIdentifiers data and set up your own imprint (which is better for long-term control).