Tag: best self publishing platforms

So you’ve got your manuscript polished, your eBook is published (if you haven’t done that yet—side-eye—head over to Top 6 Places to Upload Your eBook in 2025 and thank me later), and now you’re wondering…“Where do I publish my print book?” Stick around and I’m going to break down where to publish your print book and which platform is best to use for your specific type of book.

Look, as a fellow indie author who’s walked this wild journey of self-publishing, I know the print part can feel a little extra. But you didn’t write a whole book just to let it live its best life as a digital ghost. No ma’am. We’re giving your words a spine.

Here are the top platforms for self-publishing authors in 2025 to print your book—so you can get that paperback in readers’ hands, on their bookshelves, and in their TikTok book hauls section with your thoughts and recs.

Here are my top platforms for self-publishing writers

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1.Publishing your Print book with Amazon KDP Print

Best for: Wide reach + fast shipping
Let’s not pretend—Amazon still runs the game when it comes to print books. KDP Print (Kindle Direct Publishing’s print service) gives you:

• Free ISBN options
• Global distribution (including Amazon.com, UK, CA, and more)
• Print-on-demand with no upfront cost
• Control over trim sizes, paper color, and pricing

Why I love it: Your paperback shows up on your Amazon page right next to your eBook. And yes, it qualifies for Prime shipping. 👏

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2. Publishing your Print book with IngramSpark

Best for: Bookstore + library distribution
IngramSpark is the grown-up sibling of self-publishing. While Amazon is for speed and reach, IngramSpark is your gate into libraries, indie bookstores, and international markets.

• High-quality print options (hardcover, linen, dust jacket)
• Access to 40,000+ retailers and libraries
• Better wholesale discounts (but also setup fees)

Heads up: This one isn’t free—but if you’re serious about print quality and bookstore potential, this is your platform.

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3. Publishing your Print book with Barnes & Noble Press

Best for: Brick-and-mortar placement and local author events
Publishing with Barnes & Noble Press lets your print book land in B&N’s online store and possibly on physical shelves if you play your cards right (like solid reviews and local events).

• No upfront costs
• Easy to use
• Decent royalties
• Print quality is top-tier (chef’s kiss)

Insider Tip: Want to do a book signing at your local B&N? This is how you get in.

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4. Publishing your Print book with Lulu

Best for: Workbooks, journals, photo books, or niche genres
If you’re doing more than just novels—think planners, coloring books, or custom journals—Lulu is your jam.

• Flexible formats
• Bulk print options
• Global distribution
• Integrates with Shopify

Pro Tip: You can create your own storefront or use Lulu xPress for dropshipping.

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5. Publishing your Print book with BookBaby

Best for: Done-for-you services
Need hand-holding? BookBaby offers full-service publishing—editing, cover design, distribution, and printing.

• No need to be tech-savvy
• High print quality
• Great customer service
• Hardcover and paperback options

Real talk: It’s not the cheapest option, but for overwhelmed authors, it’s a dream.

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6. Publishing your Print book with Blurb

Best for: Visual creators and memoir writers
If you’re into photography, art, or visual storytelling, Blurb gives you stunning layout tools and print quality.

• Print photo books, cookbooks, portfolios, etc.
• Integration with Adobe InDesign and Lightroom
• Sell directly on Amazon or Blurb’s own platform

Honestly? If you’re more image-heavy, this is a top-tier option.

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Quick Comparison Table:

Platform	Print Types	Distribution	Cost	Best For
Amazon KDP Print	Paperback	Amazon only	Free	Fast, global reach
IngramSpark	Paperback + HC	Libraries + bookstores	$$	Wide physical reach
B&N Press	Paperback + HC	B&N stores + online	Free	Local + B&N lovers
Lulu	All types	Global + Shopify	Free+	Journals, planners
BookBaby	Paperback + HC	Everywhere	$$$	Done-for-you packages
Blurb	Art/photo books	Amazon + Direct	$$	Visual-heavy books

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So, Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s the truth bestie:
Use Amazon KDP Print if you want reach and speed.
Use IngramSpark if you want libraries and bookstores.
Use B&N Press if you want to build local credibility.
Use Lulu or Blurb if you’ve got something niche or visual.
Use BookBaby if you want everything handled for you.

And honestly? Many authors use more than one to stack their distribution.

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Wait—Did You Ask, ‘What About eBooks?’

You better not skip digital, Bestie. eBooks are how you get discovered before the paperback ever hits print. Go read my full breakdown over at:
👉 Top 10 Places to Upload Your eBook in 2025
Trust me, it’s a must-read. And it pairs with this blog like coffee and cream.

Have You Checked All The Boxes Before Publishing Your Book – Don’t Make These Mistakes

Stay faithful, stay loyal, and stay writing.
With love and fire,
V.S. Beals
Writer. Watchwoman. Woman of the Word.