You’ve written your book, it’s edited, formatted, designed, and ready to be printed. Now, it’s time to decide how you want your book printed. At 48 Hour Books, we understand that choosing your print materials for your book can be a little overwhelming. One of the options you will need to choose for your printed book is the cover finish.
The two standard cover materials for both perfect binding (paperback) and case binding (hardcover) are gloss and matte finishes. Gloss covers are shiny, and matte (silk) covers are smooth, with no shine.
Let's explore the subtle differences between matte vs. glossy book cover finishes.
Paperback Books
When you choose paperback printing, our standard cover is a 10 pt. C1S in Gloss UV or Silk (matte). Our Gloss UV coating is our default option, but if you are looking for a smooth, matte finish to your cover, then you would select Silk.
You can also choose lamination, which we recommend for darker covers. You will encounter the same standard options when you print a spiral coil book or saddle-stitch book.
Hardcover Books
When you choose hardcover printing, we print your full-color cover on 100# Gloss Text, then laminate it with your choice of Silk or Hi-Gloss Laminate.
There is no difference in price when you choose between Gloss or Silk Laminate for case bound books.
Special Cover Options
Our exclusive Diamond 3D printing has become a popular option to add to either a paperback or hardcover book.
We especially recommend Diamond 3D Printing to be used on our matte cover finish because it really allows the 3D elements to shine since there’s a noticeable contrast.
We’re Here to Help
We hope this breakdown of gloss and matte book covers helps when it comes time to select your book printing materials. You can view all our options when you use our price calculator.
And even better, you can view our book cover options, paper options, and Diamond 3D Printing up close when you order our free Ultimate Guide sample book!
If you need even more guidance, we’re here to help every step of the way. We offer book cover design services and formatting services, and we are standing by to answer all your questions. Contact us today to take the next step.
Are you ready to print your book? Place an order today!
Below are two videos that showcase a gloss cover (top) and a matte cover with a matte dust jacket (bottom):
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