Booklet printing tips: how to get the best results

Looking for expert advice on booklet printing? Whether you are creating a brochure, programme, or catalogue, getting the details right will ensure a professional finish.

In this guide, we share essential booklet printing tips, including paper choices, binding options, and artwork setup, to help you achieve the best results.

What is stapled booklet printing?

Stapled booklet printing (also known as saddle stitch booklet printing) is ideal for smaller publications, typically up to 56 pages.

While it is possible to produce larger stapled booklets, projects with higher page counts often benefit from perfect binding, which creates a flat spine and a more book-like finish.

Booklet covers are usually printed on thicker paper than the inner pages. For example:

• Cover paper: 170gsm silk to 250gsm card
• Inner pages: 90gsm to 120gsm paper

A heavier cover helps protect the inside pages and improves the overall feel of your booklet.

What is saddle stitch binding?

Saddle stitch binding is the most common and cost-effective booklet binding method. It involves folding sheets and securing them with staples along the spine.

This method works best for:

• brochures
• programmes
• small catalogues
• event booklets

10 essential booklet printing tips

1. Follow the “rule of fours”

Your page count must be divisible by four. Each folded sheet creates four pages. If your content does not fit exactly, you may need to include blank pages.

2. Set clear page margins

Keep text away from the centre fold and edges. This ensures your content remains easy to read and does not get lost in the crease.

 

3. Include bleed in your design

Always add at least 3mm bleed for elements that run to the edge of the page. This prevents unwanted white borders after trimming. Read our guide to bleed by clicking here.

4. Choose the right cover weight

A cover between 120gsm and 250gsm provides durability while still allowing for clean folding. Consider adding gloss or matt lamination for extra protection.

5. Select suitable inner paper

For readability and quality, use 90gsm to 120gsm silk or uncoated paper for the inside pages.

6. Pick the right binding method

While saddle stitching is the most popular, other options such as perfect binding, comb binding, or wire binding may suit your project better. Talk to us about the best type of binding for your printed booklet design.

7. Prepare a print-ready file

Submit your artwork as a single PDF with:

• images at 300dpi
• embedded fonts
• pages in the correct order

Getting this right from the start saves time and avoids extra costs.

8. Plan your front matter

Use the inside front page for important information such as credits, introductions, or publisher details. Alternatively, keep it clean with a blank page.

9. Use your back pages effectively

The inside back page is ideal for contact details, additional services, or related products.

10. Get expert advice early

Speak to your printer before starting your design. Different printers may require different setups, and early guidance can prevent costly revisions later.

Why planning your booklet matters

Taking the time to plan your booklet design and print ensures:

• a professional finish
• better readability
• cost efficiency
• fewer production delays

Every booklet is different, so expert guidance can make a significant difference to the final result.

How Afford A Print can help

At Afford A Print, we support you from concept to completion. Whether you need help with booklet design, layout, or printing, we ensure your project runs smoothly.

We regularly produce:

• A4, A5, and A6 booklets
• square booklets
• stapled and perfect bound booklets

What our customers say

“A fantastic company, so helpful and quick to respond. The work was completed faster than expected. Highly recommended.”
— Johnny Abbott of New Life Church, Loughboroug

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Promote your booklet effectively

Once your booklet is printed, you may want to support it with additional materials such as:

• flyers
• posters
• vouchers
• banners

We can help you design and print everything you need to maximise your reach.

Start your booklet printing project today

If you are planning a booklet printing project, we are here to help.

Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get expert advice on the best approach for your design and print.