How to Choose the Best Board Book Printer
5 Things You Need To Know
As a trusted offset printer with years of experience helping publishers and authors bring their board books to life, we’ve compiled 5 essential tips to help you choose the right printing partner for your project.
Tip #1: Board Book Experience Matters
Board books aren’t just regular books with thicker paper—they represent a unique category of printing that requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and expertise. That’s why it’s essential to partner with a printer who:
- Specializes in board book printing to prevent warping
- Has a thorough understanding of child safety requirements
- Does offset printing as very few Print-On-Demand (POD) options are available for board books
Got questions about printing your board book? You’re in the right place! Discover our top-tier offset printing capabilities.
Tip #2: Prioritize Quality That Delights Everyone
When it comes to board book quality, it’s about more than just colorful illustrations — it's about how your story is laid out in the finished book.
After 20 years in printing, we’ve noticed a big difference between a DIY board book and one that's professionally illustrated, edited, and formatted. If you're aiming for a bookstore-ready bedtime classic, we highly recommend working with a pro. Visit MCRL’s HIRE A PRO page for a list of trusted experts in self-publishing children’s books.
As for the physical book itself, it’s crucial to choose a printer that prioritizes:
- Durability that survives toddlers love
- Safe ink and planet-friendly materials
- Vibrant colors that hold up to countless readings
Want to feel MCRL/boardbookprinting.com’s print quality for yourself? Request a sample today!
Tip #3: Compare Apples to Apples
If you’re comparing multiple offset printing quotes, it’s crucial to understand exactly what’s included—and what’s not.
At MCRL, we include all costs in our quotes, so there are no surprises. Many overseas printers provide a base price that doesn’t factor in tariffs, a physical bound proof, or ground delivery to your door.
When evaluating multiple overseas quotes, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples by getting a printing quote that includes:
- One physical bound proof to review before mass production
- Tariffs, duties, and customs fees fully accounted for
- Logistics and expert project management to ensure smooth delivery
- Shipping by air or sea
- round delivery to your final destination
Most offset printers require a minimum print run of at least 300 books to offer the best pricing. We recommend getting a few quotes and comparing our per-unit price, quality, and personal service. We’re confident you’ll find our pricing to be the apple of your eye.
Grab a quick printing quote for your board book.
Tip #4: Consider the Environmental Impact of Your Printer
When choosing a printer, it’s important to consider their environmental practices. “Eco-friendly” claims are everywhere, but not all printers walk the talk. At MCRL and boardbookprinting.com, we’re committed to sustainable printing that doesn’t compromise on quality.
- Child-safe, eco-conscious soy based ink
- Responsibly sourced paper, including ESKAboard and FSC paper
- roduction processes that minimize waste
We’re proud to support Trees for the Future. Each year we plant 5500 trees to help offset our carbon footprint. You are welcome to mention this amazing non-profit organization in your book’s online description.
Learn more about our eco-friendly printing practices.
Tip #5: Connect with Vendors Directly Before Making a Decision
Every printer has its strengths and weaknesses. As an author, you’ll want a reliable, experienced vendor who can save you time, money, and stress.
We recommend reaching out directly to each of your shortlisted printing vendors with a question related to your quote. Their responsiveness and the quality of their answers can give you valuable insight into the type of customer service you can expect.
Word of caution: While a lower price might seem appealing, make sure ALL fees are included and don’t underestimate logistics support and communications in your time zone. What you save in cost may be offset by the time and effort you'll have to invest in figuring out the paperwork and logistics on your own. At MCRL Overseas Group/boardbookprinting.com, we pride ourselves on:
- Offering the most competitive ALL-IN prices
- Personally getting to know every client
- Responding quickly with clear answers
- Providing solutions, not excuses
- Investing time in your success
Ready to Talk About Your Board Book?
Look, we know choosing a printer feels like a big decision. We truly want to make your printing experience easier.
Want to see if we're a good fit? Let's chat about your project - no pressure, just an honest conversation about bringing your board book to life. Book a 10 minute free printing consult!
