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Print on Demand Children’s Books – How to Make Money
Last modified: August 15, 2024
There’s something incredibly profound about the moment a child holds a book in their hands—knowing that within those pages, they are about to embark on an adventure that will shape their imagination, their dreams, and their sense of wonder. But what if these stories could reach every child, regardless of where they live or how many copies are printed? This is the heart of print on demand children’s books—an opportunity to bring stories to life with no limitations, ensuring that every child, anywhere in the world, has access to the tales that will inspire them.
For authors and illustrators, print on demand is a lifeline—a way to share their creations without the heavy costs and barriers of traditional publishing. It’s a chance to put stories into the hands of children who need them most, to create books that reflect diverse experiences, and to offer hope, comfort, and joy through the simple act of reading.
But beyond the logistics, there’s a deeper, emotional connection. Print on demand children’s books represent the belief that every story matters and that every child deserves a book that speaks to their heart. In a world where not every child has the luxury of a bookshelf filled with stories, this technology brings the magic of books to those who might otherwise go without. It’s more than just printing—it’s about nurturing the souls of young readers, one story at a time, and knowing that in every book lies the power to make a difference.
So how can you start earning revenue by selling print on demand children’s books or coloring books? Read this guide on getting the best from your writing and sell more.
How to Make Money with Print on Demand Children’s Books on Shopify
Ready to turn your love for storytelling into a money-making machine? Let’s dive into the exciting world of Print on Demand (POD) children’s books on Shopify! This guide will show you how to create, market, and sell your own kids’ books with a fun, creative twist—all while keeping the process smooth and stress-free.
1. Dream Up Your Children’s Book
- Find Your Niche: Are you creating bedtime stories for toddlers or adventure tales for young readers? Zero in on your audience and let your imagination run wild!
- Create a Unique Story: Think about what makes your story special. Maybe it’s a magical twist, a heartwarming lesson, or a character that kids will love. Your book’s charm lies in what sets it apart!
2. Bring Your Story to Life
- Write and Illustrate: Whether you’re writing rhymes or weaving whimsical tales, keep your story engaging and easy to follow. Pair your words with vibrant, eye-catching illustrations that bring every page to life.
- Partner with an Illustrator: If drawing isn’t your thing, team up with an illustrator who can capture your vision. Your book’s visuals are key to capturing young imaginations!
3. Pick the Perfect Print on Demand Service
- Choose Your POD Platform: Services like Printful, Blurb, or Lulu Xpress are great options, offering a range of book formats perfect for kids. They’ll handle printing and shipping, so you can focus on the fun parts!
- Test the Waters: Order a few samples to make sure your book looks amazing in print. You’ll want to check colors, paper quality, and overall feel to ensure it’s just right.
4. Build Your Awesome Shopify Store
- Set Up Shop: Choose a theme that’s colorful and fun—perfect for showcasing your children’s books. Think about how you’ll organize your products, and make sure it’s easy for parents to find exactly what they’re looking for.
- Create Stunning Product Pages: Use high-quality images and playful descriptions to showcase your book’s personality. Tell parents why their kids will love it, and make it irresistible!
5. Price It Right
- Cover Your Costs: Factor in printing, shipping, and Shopify fees, then set a price that ensures a solid profit. Remember, your book isn’t just any product—it’s a piece of art!
- Highlight the Value: Explain why your book is worth every penny—whether it’s the educational content, the joy it brings, or the beautiful illustrations. Make sure parents see the value in every page.
6. Get the Word Out
- Social Media Magic: Share sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes content, and adorable character sketches on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Use targeted ads to reach parents who are always on the lookout for great books.
- Email Campaigns: Build an email list by offering a free chapter or a special discount. Keep your subscribers excited with updates, new releases, and exclusive deals.
- Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with parenting bloggers, educators, and influencers who can spread the word about your book. Their recommendations can give your sales a major boost!
7. Make It Personal
- Offer Customization: Let parents personalize your book with their child’s name, a special dedication, or even a custom character. Personalization adds a magical touch that makes your book even more special.
8. Handle Orders Like a Pro
- Seamless Fulfillment: With your POD service integrated into Shopify, orders are automatically printed and shipped directly to your customers. You focus on the fun stuff, while the logistics are handled for you!
- Top-Notch Customer Service: Be responsive, helpful, and quick to resolve any issues. Happy customers mean glowing reviews and repeat business.
9. Expand Your Story Universe
- Create a Series: Once your first book is a hit, why stop there? Expand your story into a series, or bundle books together for added value.
- Add Related Products: Think beyond books—how about coloring books, activity books, or even plush toys of your characters? The possibilities are endless!
10. Keep Growing
- Track Your Success: Use Shopify’s analytics to see what’s selling, who’s buying, and where you can improve. Keep refining your strategy to boost sales even more.
- Listen to Your Audience: Pay attention to customer feedback and use it to make your next book even better. Your readers will appreciate the effort, and your sales will show it!
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Printful
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Printify
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SPOD
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CustomCat
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teelaunch
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JetPrint
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AOP+ Easy Print on Demand
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Two Fifteen
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Apliiq ‑ Print On Demand
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Factory4me
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Pixels
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Riverr
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Print Partners
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ShineOn: Print On Demand
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Gelato: Print on Demand
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Inkedjoy ‑ Print On Demand
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Tshirtgang Print On Demand
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POPCUSTOMS: Print on Demand
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Podbase: Print on Demand
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T-Pop
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Why Self Publish Print on Demand Children's Books
One of the best reasons for self-publishing is that you get more money. Those who are self-publishing can often earn up to 30–40% of the retail price of the books they sell. This is three or four times the revenues through traditional publishing. Another reason is that the costs can be much lower, especially compared to vanity publishing that requires authors to buy lots of copies of their books. In self-publishing, using print on demand strategies helps you earn more money and save on costs.
By selling print on demand children’s books, you only pay for the printing of the book when the customer has made a purchase. This reduces your costs.
In addition, self-publishing reduces costs because you don’t have to pay an agent, who often takes about 10–15% of your takings as well. And you have more control over your marketing. When you traditionally publish, your agent and publisher will often give demands of how you market the book.
Which print on demand providers specialize in children’s books?
- Blurb:
- Features: Blurb offers print-on-demand services specifically for children’s books, with options for high-quality printing, various sizes, and premium paper choices. Blurb also provides a free tool called BookWright for designing your book.
- Distribution: You can sell your books directly through Blurb or distribute them on platforms like Amazon.
- IngramSpark:
- Features: IngramSpark provides print-on-demand services with a wide range of options suitable for children’s books, including hardcover and full-color printing. They offer global distribution, making it easier to reach a broader audience.
- Distribution: IngramSpark distributes to major online retailers and bookstores worldwide, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
- KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing):
- Features: Amazon’s KDP is a popular choice for print-on-demand children’s books, offering various trim sizes and color options. It’s ideal for authors looking to publish both eBooks and print books.
- Distribution: Books published through KDP are available on Amazon’s global marketplace, which provides significant reach.
- Lulu:
- Features: Lulu offers a variety of print-on-demand services for children’s books, including full-color printing and a range of book sizes. Lulu’s platform is user-friendly and provides tools to help you create your book.
- Distribution: Lulu also offers global distribution, making your book available on major online retailers.
- BookBaby:
- Features: BookBaby offers high-quality printing for children’s books, with options for hardcover, softcover, and full-color printing. They provide design assistance and formatting services tailored to children’s books.
- Distribution: BookBaby offers extensive distribution options, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers.
Can You Sell Print on Demand Children’s Books on Shopify?
Shopify is a great place where you can sell your children’s books. Creating a website is really easy and there are themes that are perfectly designed for the children’s market. All you have to do is choose the right theme, then edit the text. You can install the Lulu app that allows you to sell print on demand books and starting listing your books.
Once this is completed, you are free to market your books.
Marketing your print on demand books can be really tough. But there are lots of options. For instance, you can guest post on blogs, get book reviews, use social media, email marketing and even use video trailers for your books.
Of course, there are other things that are important with selling children books. Research has found that you need to have written five or more books before you can start to see sales coming through. So try to create more books for your brand.
Another thing you can do is add more products to your website. For instance, create more print on demand products like t-shirts, bags, and more. This can help you earn a lot more money and can give you a better chance to earn a living from your writing. You can use Printful or Printify to add merchandise to your store.
There are several others to check out on our best Shopify POD app list.
Statistics about Children’s Books
The children’s book market is a vibrant and growing segment within the publishing industry, with several key statistics highlighting its importance and potential:
- Market Size and Growth: The global children’s book market was valued at $11.76 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to $12.06 billion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.6%. This steady growth is driven by increasing literacy rates, the popularity of young adult fiction, and the rise of digital formats like e-books and audiobooks (Research Markets) (MarketResearch).
- Age Group Insights: The market is segmented into various age groups, with the preschool segment (ages 0-5) holding a significant share due to the high demand for board books, picture books, and interactive learning materials. Meanwhile, the young adult segment (ages 13-18) is seeing robust growth, fueled by genres like fantasy, dystopian fiction, and romance (Global Market Reports).
- Format Preferences: Despite the rise of digital formats, print books continue to dominate the children’s book market, valued for their tactile engagement and visual appeal. However, interactive apps and e-books are rapidly gaining traction, especially among older children and young adults who are more accustomed to digital devices (Global Market Reports) (MarketResearch).
These statistics demonstrate the ongoing demand for children’s books across various formats and age groups, making it a promising market for authors, publishers, and retailers.
Did You Know?
Not all children’s book writers illustrate their own books; in fact, it’s quite common for writers and illustrators to be different people. This separation of roles allows each person to focus on their strengths—writers craft the story, while illustrators bring the visual elements to life.
Interesting Facts:
- Writer-Illustrator Collaborations: Some of the most beloved children’s books are the result of successful collaborations between a writer and an illustrator. For instance, Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake are famous for their partnership, with Dahl writing and Blake providing iconic illustrations that perfectly complemented the stories.
- Writer-Illustrators: However, there are also many famous children’s book creators who do both. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel) is a prime example of a writer-illustrator, known for his whimsical rhymes and quirky illustrations. Another example is Maurice Sendak, who wrote and illustrated the classic “Where the Wild Things Are.”
- Historical Context: The tradition of combining writing and illustration in children’s books dates back centuries. One of the earliest examples is Randolph Caldecott, a 19th-century English artist, whose work is so influential that the Caldecott Medal, awarded annually to the best American picture book, is named after him. His work helped establish the picture book as a genre where illustrations are not just decorative but integral to the storytelling.
- Modern Trends: Today, the role of an illustrator is increasingly respected and seen as essential to the success of a children’s book. In the current market, publishers often match a writer with an illustrator who can bring the text to life in ways that appeal to young readers. Sometimes, the illustrations can even lead the narrative, especially in books aimed at younger children who might not be able to read yet.
- Creative Synergy: In some cases, writers and illustrators work closely together, even if they start separately. They may discuss character designs, color schemes, and how best to represent key scenes. This creative synergy often leads to more cohesive and impactful books.
While some authors are also talented illustrators, the partnership between writers and illustrators has been a cornerstone of children’s literature for over a century. This collaborative approach allows the best of both worlds—storytelling and visual artistry—to create books that captivate young readers.
Conclusion: Print on Demand Children’s Books Can Be a Viable Business
In a world where screens dominate and stories often go untold, print-on-demand children’s books stand as a beacon of hope, a way to keep the magic of reading alive for generations to come. These books are not just about ink on paper—they’re about creating moments of wonder, sparking a child’s imagination, and giving life to dreams that otherwise might have stayed hidden.
Through print-on-demand, every author, every illustrator has the power to craft a tale that could be the very story a child needs to hear. It’s a chance to reach out across distances, to touch lives in ways you may never fully see or understand, but that you know are real.
As you venture into this journey, remember that each book you create is a gift, a legacy of creativity, and a testament to the enduring power of words. With every page turned, you’re not just telling a story—you’re building a bridge to a brighter, more imaginative future for every child who holds your book in their hands. And in that, there is a beauty so profound, it’s hard not to be moved to tears.
Selling print on demand children’s books can be really challenging. But with the right setup, including a good website on Shopify and a few apps, you can sell your book with ease. And then you can make a good career out of your writing. And to make more money, you can also learn how to sell second-hand children’s books.
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How do I set pricing for my print on demand children’s books?
Setting the right pricing for your print-on-demand (POD) children’s books involves several considerations. First, calculate your production costs, which include printing, materials, and any royalty fees if applicable.
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How do I handle shipping for print on demand children’s books?
Efficient shipping management is crucial when selling print-on-demand children’s books. Partner with reliable shipping carriers, negotiate favorable rates for bulk shipping, and offer a variety of shipping options.
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How do I handle returns and exchanges for print on demand children’s books?
Managing returns and exchanges for print-on-demand children’s books requires a customer-focused approach. Begin by establishing a transparent and easy-to-understand return policy on your website, outlining timeframes and conditions.
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Do I need to be a professional writer to create children’s books on Shopify?
No, you don’t need to be a professional writer. Many successful children’s books are written by first-time authors with a passion for storytelling and a clear understanding of their target audience.
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Which POD services are best for children’s books on Shopify?
Services like Printful, Blurb, and Lulu Xpress are popular choices for high-quality children’s book printing and seamless Shopify integration.
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What should I consider when pricing my POD children’s books?
Consider the cost of printing, shipping, Shopify fees, and your desired profit margin. Pricing should also reflect the perceived value of your book’s content and illustrations.
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How can I market my children’s books on Shopify?
Use social media marketing, email campaigns, influencer partnerships, and paid advertising to reach your target audience, which typically includes parents and educators.
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What are the most effective ways to promote a new children’s book?
Offering a free sample chapter, running pre-order campaigns, and collaborating with bloggers or influencers who focus on parenting or education are effective promotional strategies.
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Is it necessary to hire an illustrator for my children’s book?
While not necessary, a professional illustrator can significantly enhance your book’s appeal. If you have strong artistic skills, you can also illustrate the book yourself.
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Can I personalize children’s books on Shopify?
Yes, personalization is a big draw in the children’s book market. Many POD services offer options to customize books with a child’s name, photo, or a custom dedication.
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How do I handle customer service and returns for POD children’s books?
As the store owner, you’ll manage customer inquiries, refunds, and returns. POD services typically handle order fulfillment, but you need to communicate clearly with customers.
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What kind of content works best for children’s books?
Content that is engaging, educational, and age-appropriate tends to perform well. Themes like adventure, friendship, and problem-solving are popular among young readers.
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Can I sell my POD children’s books internationally on Shopify?
Yes, Shopify supports international sales, and most POD services offer global shipping. Be sure to consider international shipping costs and delivery times.
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How do I build an audience for my children’s books?
Start by engaging with potential customers on social media, building an email list, and creating a blog or website that shares valuable content related to children’s literature and parenting.
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What are the most common challenges in selling POD children’s books?
Common challenges include standing out in a competitive market, managing production and shipping times, and ensuring consistent quality.
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Can I sell children’s book bundles on Shopify?
Yes, bundling books is a great way to increase the average order value. You can create themed bundles or offer discounts on sets.
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How do I handle shipping and fulfillment with POD children’s books?
The POD service typically handles printing and shipping. Ensure your Shopify store is set up to automatically send orders to your POD provider, and keep customers informed about shipping times.
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Can I offer digital versions of my children’s books on Shopify?
Yes, you can sell digital versions (eBooks) alongside physical copies, offering them as instant downloads after purchase.
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