Top-Quality Materials Make the Best Board Books
Materials matter more than you might think
After producing thousands of board books for publishers and creators like you, we’ve learned exactly what makes the difference between a good board book and a great one.
Premium Board Stock: The Foundation
Ever wondered why some board books feel more substantial than others? It all comes down to the board stock. Unlike paper, board books are made from thick, durable cardboard stock. The cover is typically the same thickness as the inside pages—making it both sturdy and easy to design.
Board books usually come in sizes ranging from 5” x 5” to 8” x 8”, with anywhere between 4 to 28 pages. The two most common board thickness is 40pt (0.040 inches or about 1mm) or 60pt (0.060 inches or about 1.5mm). As a custom printer, we can create thicker board books with various sizes and page counts to meet your needs.
When choosing between 40pt or 60pt, think about the intended audience and how much handling the book will experience. Thicker pages (60pt) are ideal for books that will be passed around a lot, while 40pt is perfect for most general titles meant for home use.
Regardless of the board stock you choose, we print board books that:
- Stand up to enthusiastic little readers
- Maintain shape through countless readings
- Resist water damage and warping
- Provide a safe and engaging reading experience
Want an estimate on printing your board book? Get a quote in seconds when you print a standard board book.
Ink: Soy Many Reasons to Choose Soy-Based Ink
At Boardbookprinting.com we only print with safe, soy ink.
While there are various inks used in book publishing, we’ve chosen 100% non-toxic, child-safe soy ink because it’s phthalate-free and lead-free. We guarantee that no book printed with us contains any trace of lead.
In addition to being safe, soy ink is:
- Easier to recycle than oil-based inks
- Biodegradable and renewable (unlike petroleum-based inks)
- More vibrant and fade-resistant
- More cost-effective than petroleum ink, requiring less ink for the same print coverage
Finishes: Let’s Start With Understanding Finishes
GLOSS FINISHES
What’s the difference between an Aqueous Gloss and Gloss Finish?
Both finishes add a glossy, shiny appearance to your book cover, but the process and environmental impact differ.
- Aqueous Gloss is a water-based coating applied to the surface. It’s a more eco-friendly option compared to traditional gloss finishes.
- Gloss Finish, also known as UV coating or lamination, involves applying a plastic-based coating or a thin plastic film that cures under UV light or heat to create a highly glossy and durable surface.
MATTE FINISHES
What’s the difference between an Aqueous Matte and Matte Finish?
Both finishes offer a non-glossy, smooth appearance, but they differ in texture and durability.
- Aqueous Matte is a water-based coating that absorbs into the paper, creating a soft, velvety finish with minimal shine. It’s an eco-friendly option ideal for books that need a subtle, sophisticated look.
- Matte Finish uses lamination or UV coating to achieve a smooth, non-reflective surface, offering a more durable and protective finish.
Choosing the Right Finish
Both finishes provide excellent protection and enhance the appearance of your board book. The choice between gloss and matte ultimately depends on you.
- For Bright Designs: If your book features colorful illustrations or photographs, a Gloss finish will make your images pop and stand out.
- For Subtle Designs: If you prefer a more understated and softer appearance, the Matte finish will give your book a timeless, high-quality feel.
Our Materials Make the Difference
Starting at a 300 piece print run, every board book we produce is made with materials that…
- Last through years of story time
- Keep colors bright and engaging
- Stand up to curious toddlers
- Meet international safety standards
Ready to feel the difference that experienced printing and premium materials make? Request a sample today to see and feel the quality for yourself.
