What specifically did you publish? Why self-publish? and why now?
[J. Kenneth Leap] Silver Stain: An Artist’s Guide
I had prepared the material for a workshop at the AGG conference in Buffalo, NY. I first posted my notes on a blog: http://thepaintedwindow.blogspot.com/ . Soon afterward I got an email/advertisement from Blogger explaining how to turn my blog into a book. The service “slurps” your blog posts, formats them and allows you to order a printed version in soft or hard cover. I tried it and ordered a print of my blog. When it arrived I was disappointed with the layout as the captions weren’t translated consistently with my photos. However the idea of a print version of my silver stain research seemed worth pursuing.
Did you consider any of the other print-on-demand services, like Lulu, or Snapfish, or Shutterfly?
[J. Kenneth Leap] I already use Shutterfly to make annual “family albums” to give to my parents & in-laws at the holidays. Shutterfly books are very simple to make and I have been pleased with the color and quality of the images. I have ordered the 12 x 12 format and made 50 page books which typically cost around $75 each to produce. Then I started to make “project albums” in the 8 ½ x 11 format to give to clients and architects. These usually cost about $50 each. Shutterfly runs various promotional discounts with 50% off or free shipping or buy 1 get 1 free, etc. so I usually wait to catch a sale before I place the order.
How did you find out about Blurb?
Judith Schaechter mentioned Blurb during the conference in Detroit.
Why did you choose Blurb over any other print-on-demand services?
I chose Blurb because it was easy to make the book available for sale. Shutterfly only allows you to order their books for yourself. With Blurb, after you order one copy for yourself you have the option to offer the book for sale. You set your own price for markup and how you want to receive payments if you “make anything” on the book. I get a check once a month credited to my Paypal account – this was the best option to avoid all processing and service fees. There would be a small fee if I wanted to be mailed a check instead.
Which software did you use to generate the file to upload to Blurb?
Or did you use a Blurb template?
I used Blurb’s own software called Blurb BookSmart which I downloaded from their website. I was able to layout the whole book on my computer then upload the completed file for publishing. BookSmart includes templates, as does Shutterfly, however Blurb’s version allows for more customization.
Any pleasant surprises? Unusual feedback from self publishing the book?
I was contacted by an artist in Kuwait who couldn’t order my book because Blurb wouldn’t ship to his country. I resolved it by sending him a copy myself which he reimbursed me for using Paypal. I’m probably on a terrorist watch list now!
How many copies have you distributed?
I have sold over 100 copies. They have gone all over the world.
What were the pros and cons of using Blurb?
First off, Blurb has a sexy interface that allows the shopper to turn the pages online and look at the whole book. (images attached) Blurb was very easy to use to format and upload my book. When I worked with Shutterfly I had to do all of the editing online and sometimes the site would crash – however I think they now offer a layout program that resides on your computer so perhaps this is no longer an issue. Shutterfly has better paper & color and the “image wrap” cover is standard. Blurb hard cover options start with a dust jacket – image wrap is extra. The con with all print on demand is the price. The books seem expensive compared to brick and mortar bookstores which offer everything at a discount. The 80 page hard cover version of my book costs $48.95 – I wish it could be $25. If I were to make a 100 page 12 x 12 portfolio it would cost over $100 a copy. It would be hard to have a stack of these around for sale or to give away to cultivate a relationship with a client. People always ask “Can I buy a copy of your book from you?” and I have to say, “No, you have to purchase it online.” I think people prefer to get a signed copy from the author – but that’s tricky with print-on-demand. Another shortfall is that Blurb does not support ISBN numbers. Some print on demand services sell the option to add an ISBN. This facilitates the sale of the book through other resellers like Amazon or Barnes & Noble. If you do a web search for my book, you’ll be directed to my website or my page at Blurb. You won’t find it on Amazon or Alibris– with all the perks that implies.
Are you wanting to print/publish any more books?
Absolutely! I have 3 books on individual projects which I have made up using Shutterfly. I might reformat them with Blurb. And a large format “portfolio” book makes a great impression even if I have to pay $100 to give one away. I will probably do that next.
Is there a Lawrence Saint / Ruby Glass book in the works?
Good idea!
If so, would you use Blurb again?
There are many options out there. For something shorter I think (Tom) your find of Mag Cloud is very intriguing. Using Blurb might be more of an inroad to a book deal from a traditional publisher – it has been suggested to me that I explore that as well.
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