Graphic Novel Printing
Realize your illustrated story with QinPrinting’s custom graphic novel printing services. With over 25 years of experience in offset printing, we collaborate with independent creators, small presses, and publishers to produce expertly crafted graphic novels using high-grade materials and attentive service. Whether you’re working on a black-and-white indie release or a full-color collector’s edition, we help you develop a print product that reflects the quality and creativity of your work, delivered on time and within budget.
Get an Instant Quote
based on your choices
Graphic Novel Paper Options
Paper selection affects visual presentation, durability, and cost. We recommend selecting different stocks for interior pages and covers, depending on the artwork, layout, and desired finish.
- Gloss Art Paper: Bright finish that enhances color depth—great for illustration-heavy books.
- Matte Art Paper: Subtle sheen with excellent print quality and comfortable reading.
| GSM / LB | Gloss Art Paper Thickness | Matte Art Paper Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| 80 gsm / 54 lb Text | 0.065 mm | 0.072 mm |
| 105 gsm / 71 lb Text | 0.086 mm | 0.090 mm |
| 128 gsm / 86 lb Text | 0.105 mm | 0.110 mm |
| 157 gsm / 106 lb Text | 0.136 mm | 0.140 mm |
| 200 gsm / 135 lb Text | 0.178 mm | 0.200 mm |
| 250 gsm / 92 lb Cover | 0.225 mm | 0.250 mm |
| 300 gsm / 111 lb Cover | 0.270 mm | 0.285 mm |
| 350 gsm / 129 lb Cover | 0.410 mm | - |
- Uncoated Paper: Best for coloring, writing, and interactive formats; prevents bleed-through.
| GSM / lb | Uncoated Paper Thickness |
|---|---|
| 80 gsm / 54 lb Text | 0.097 mm |
| 100 gsm / 68 lb Text | 0.118 mm |
| 120 gsm / 81 lb Text | 0.140 mm |
| 140 gsm / 95 lb Text | 0.160 mm |
| 160 gsm / 108 lb Text | 0.183 mm |
| 180 gsm / 122 lb Text | 0.200 mm |
Graphic Novel Binding Styles
Graphic novels need to be both attractive and built to last. We typically recommend sewn perfect binding or sewn hardcover formats for their longevity and refined look. Both options allow the book to open flat without straining the spine.
A popular and cost-effective option, perfect for fiction, comics, catalogs, and more. It features a clean, flat spine and is ideal for books with 32–800 pages.
For a more substantial finish, this method involves sewing interior signatures and mounting them into a rigid case covered in a printed wrap. It also pairs well with enhancements like foil stamping, soft-touch lamination, custom dust jackets, or slipcases.
Finish Options
At QinPrinting, we offer a full range of finishing options to make your graphic novel book stand out and look truly professional. These include:
Shiny and reflective, perfect for vibrant graphics and photos.
Glossy highlights on specific areas for a striking contrast.
Smooth and non-reflective for a simple yet professional design.
Similar to matte lamination, but the resulting surface has a delightful, almost velvet feel.
A glossy finish applied to specific areas for a bold and distinct look.
Metallic or pigmented foil for a shiny, eye-catching effect.
Raised designs for added texture and elegance.
A recessed design that creates a tactile impression on the cover, adding texture and sophistication.
Thin metallic foil—usually gold, silver, or bronze—is applied to the trimmed edges of your book's pages.
Custom patterns and images are sprayed on the edges for a truly unique appearance.
Print your design on a special paper that reflects light in a rainbow-like pattern.
Wrap your book in a durable synthetic leather material.
Cover your book with woven linen or cotton fabric .
Uses a custom-made metal die to cut paper into specific shapes.
A row of small holes that makes it easy to tear off part of the paper.
A built-in tape that allows the paper to be opened easily and cleanly by pulling along the strip.
Graphic Novels Crowdfunding
Planning to launch your graphic novel through Kickstarter or another crowdfunding platform? We support indie graphic novel printing and mainstream publishers alike and assist creators with:
- Print-ready templates for interior layouts and covers
- Complimentary file reviews
- Volume discounts
- Premium upgrades for stretch goals (e.g., dust jackets, metallic foil, slipcases)
Reach out before you launch to streamline your campaign and optimize production.
Why Work with QinPrinting?
We understand the creative demands and technical challenges of custom graphic novel printing. Here’s what we provide:
High-resolution offset printing for clean lines and vibrant artwork
Binding methods that hold up to frequent reading
A wide range of papers and finishes for every aesthetic
Global delivery and responsive customer service
FAQs
What is a graphic novel?
A graphic novel is a long-form narrative that combines sequential art with text to tell a cohesive story. Typically bound in softcover or hardcover formats, graphic novels cover a wide range of genres, including fantasy, memoir, science fiction, and historical accounts.
What are the common graphic novel sizes?
Graphic novels come in a range of sizes, like 5.5″ x 8.5″ (digest), 6.625″ × 10.25″ (US comic size), 5″ × 7.5″ (manga size), or 8.5″ × 11″(European album size)—are familiar to readers, cost-efficient, and faster to produce.
For creators seeking a unique format, custom sizes offer an eye-catching alternative. You might try a square micro-edition at 3.5″ x 3.5″ or go bold with a large-format 11″ x 17″ book. Landscape orientation is also an option. If your layout works, we can print it.
How much does it cost to print a graphic novel?
Pricing depends on quantity, page count, trim size, materials, and binding. Standard formats and larger orders help lower the per-unit price.
| Quantity | 100pcs | 500pcs | 1000pcs | 2000pcs | 5000pcs | 10000pcs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 64pp + 4pp | $5.21 unit $521 total | $1.45 unit $724 total | $0.90 unit $904 total | $0.67 unit $1,340 total | $0.55 unit $2,745 total | $0.51 unit $5,110 total |
| 80pp + 4pp | $6.20 unit $620 total | $1.73 unit $863 total | $1.09 unit $1,090 total | $0.81 unit $1,618 total | $0.66 unit $3,307 total | $0.62 unit $6,170 total |
| 96pp + 4pp | $7.19 unit $719 total | $2.01 unit $1,004 total | $1.28 unit $1,277 total | $0.95 unit $1,897 total | $0.78 unit $3,896 total | $0.73 unit $7,257 total |
- Cover: 250 gsm / 92 lb coated art cover paper with matte lamination outside
- Interior: 105 gsm / 71 lb coated art text paper, full color printing
- Please note that all prices are EXW (Ex Works) our facility and do not include shipping costs.
| Quantity | 100pcs | 500pcs | 1000pcs | 2000pcs | 5000pcs | 10000pcs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 64pp | $9.29 unit $929 total | $2.51 unit $1,255 total | $1.82 unit $1,819 total | $1.54 unit $3,079 total | $1.32 unit $6,621 total | $1.26 unit $12,634 total |
| 80pp | $10.60 unit $1,060 total | $2.86 unit $1,429 total | $2.04 unit $2,039 total | $1.70 unit $3,392 total | $1.44 unit $7,175 total | $1.37 unit $13,706 total |
| 96pp | $11.90 unit $1,190 total | $3.22 unit $1,608 total | $2.26 unit $2,259 total | $1.85 unit $3,704 total | $1.55 unit $7,729 total | $1.48 unit $14,752 total |
- Cover: 157 gsm / 58 lb coated cover paper with matte lamination wrapped on 2.5 mm thickness greybeard
- Interior: 128 gsm / 86 lb coated text paper, full color printing
- Please note that all prices are EXW (Ex Works) our facility and do not include shipping costs.
What is the MOQ for graphic novels printing?
We require a minimum order of 100 copies.
What are the common graphic novel paper?
Paper selection affects visual presentation, durability, and cost. We recommend selecting different stocks for interior pages and covers, depending on the artwork, layout, and desired finish.
Interior Paper Options
- 105 gsm / 71 lb coated text paper
- 128 gsm / 86 lb coated text paper
- 157 gsm / 106 lb coated text paper
- 200 gsm / 135 lb coated text paper
- 80 gsm / 54 lb uncoated text paper
- 100 gsm / 68 lb uncoated text paper
- 120 gsm / 81 lb uncoated text paper
Coated papers offer excellent color reproduction and clarity, especially for full-color interiors. Uncoated papers provide a natural texture suited to black-and-white art or stylized designs. For smaller formats, a lighter stock helps the book stay open; for books with fewer than 32 pages, a heavier interior paper may be necessary to achieve an adequate spine width.
Cover Paper Options
- 200 gsm / 74 lb gloss or matte cover paper
- 250 gsm / 92 lb gloss or matte cover paper
- 300 gsm / 111 lb gloss or matte cover paper
- 350 gsm / 129 lb gloss or matte cover paper
Hardcover Options
- 157 gsm / 58 lb coated paper wrapped on 2 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm grey board
- Custom options available on request
If you’re unsure what works best, you can download our spine calculator template or request samples (you only cover shipping).
How long does it take to print a graphic novel?
Paperbacks are usually completed in 5–10 business days. Hardcovers take approximately 3 weeks. Delivery times vary by location and shipping method.
Do you offer eco-friendly printing?
Yes. We can print using FSC-certified paper and soy-based inks by request.
What format should my files be in?
Please submit your files as high-resolution PDFs (300 dpi), in CMYK color mode, with a 3 mm bleed and all fonts embedded. Our team is happy to assist if you need any help.
Can you check my files before printing?
Yes. We provide a free manual review to confirm that your files are print-ready.
Can I request a proof copy?
Absolutely. You can order either a digital or physical proof before moving into full production.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes. We ship worldwide with several carrier and service-level options.
Can I add a dust jacket or specialty finishes?
Yes. You can add extras like dust jackets, foil, embossing, or slipcases to create collector-worthy editions.
QinPrinting Reviews
Most of all, we are so grateful for Nelson’s support throughout the entire process. He was consistently helpful, communicative, and detail-oriented — truly a pleasure to work with. Every step was made easier thanks to his guidance and care. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Highly recommend both the product and working with Nelson. We’ll definitely be back for future projects.
A special thanks to Nelson, who went above and beyond by sending us videos of the printed books and samples before shipping to ensure everything was perfect. His attention to detail and dedication gave us great peace of mind.
We had a children’s book printed and the final product was absolutely beautiful. The print quality, vibrant colors, sturdy binding, and professional packaging exceeded our expectations. Delivery was timely and the pricing was very competitive, especially for the high level of quality and service we received.
We were so impressed that we didn’t hesitate to place a second order with them and once again, everything was flawless.
If you're looking for a reliable, high quality, and customer focused printing company, QinPrinting is the one to go with. Highly recommended!
The product itself is so well made in terms of quality — Every detail was exactly as promised, if not better.
What really stood out to me, though, was the follow-up. Even after the purchase and delivery Nelson checked in to ensure everything was running smoothly and that I was satisfied. That level of care and commitment to customer experience is rare and truly appreciated.
They produced an excellent product that was printed, shipped and arrived within the expected timescales.
Emails were responded to quickly by Susan.
The whole process was smooth and straightforward.
What a delight!
Let's Talk
Have a graphic novel ready for print? Whether you’re a graphic novel publisher, indie creator, or launching your next crowdfunding campaign, we offer skilled support and tailored solutions for every step of the process. Contact us today for a no-pressure consultation and detailed quote.
