We have downloadable templates in PDF format for all trim sizes that you can use for formatting your front and back covers. You will find links to download the PDF files in the formatting section on the cover page of "Create a Print Book flow". Instructions on how to use the templates can be found within the downloadable template.
Choose the Barnes & Noble Press print platform cover template that matches your book’s trim size. The front and back cover templates work similarly. Instructions for using the 6”x 9” front paperback cover template follow below.
- Save the template under a new name before getting started.
- The page size is set appropriately at 6.125” x 9.25”.
- The margins are set appropriately at ZERO. Any image or text that appears in the blue trim zone may get trimmed off.
- The page color is set to WHITE but can be adjusted by going to the Page Layout tab and using the
Choose Page Color option. If you change a background color, make sure you go to the Office button (if you’re using a PC), then to Word Options in the bottom right. Choose the Display option, then Printing Options, and then select the box Print Background Colors and Images. - You can adjust the font and font size for the book description and author bio.
- Insert an image into the image area by selecting the Insert Image/Photo option.
- Choose an image of at least 300 DPI from your computer.
- Adjust the placement of the image by clicking just outside of the image.
- Increase, decrease, or move around the dotted blue box for desired placement of image.
- Adjust image size by clicking on the image.
- You can add additional text boxes for more text.
- Before saving as a PDF, delete the template Instructions and the Blue Trim Lines by clicking on them and hitting delete. You should now have only one page – your front cover image in this case – to save as a PDF.
- Embed your fonts. See page 18 for embedding instructions.
- Save as a PDF file. Choose ignore if you get a message about printing outside the margins.
More information on cover templates can be found in our Formatting Guide.
For interior files, we have standardized settings that you can apply to your existing document that will ensure proper PDF creation. See our Book Interior Quick Guide Checklist.
