Lay-Flat Book Printing
Also called “board book binding“, lay-flat book printing is a specialized binding technique that allows books to open fully flat without the pages lifting or curving. This technique provides an uninterrupted view across two pages, making it best-suited for photographs, art portfolios, cookbooks, children books, and any publication where seamless visual presentation is a must. If you wish to bring your vivid images to life, our 25 years of experience in the book-printing industry, highly advanced technology, and unrivaled customer service make QinPrinting the first choice for your lay-flat book printing needs.
Lay-flat Book Printing Price Calculator
Custom Lay-flat Books Printing
There are several advantages to using lay-flat binding:
- Seamless panoramic spreads: Lay-flat books are ideal for showcasing images or designs that span two pages, displaying the visuals seamlessly with no disruptions.
- Enhanced usability: Books remain open and flat on their own, making them easily able to be used for display or reference purposes.
- Durability: Lay-flat binding uses 14pt/16pt/20pt C1S paper, enhancing the book’s longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
Best lay-flat book printing services:
We offer premium lay-flat books with either matte or gloss-laminated hardcovers. Our books come in a variety of paper types and with multiple customizable options to meet all your lay-flat book printing needs.
Book Surface Finishes Options
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.
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.
Free File Checking Service
Not sure if your files are print-ready? You’ve nothing to worry about! Our team will check your files for free to make sure everything’s in order—things like page size, bleed, color mode, and image resolution. If something’s off, we’ll let you know and suggest how to fix it before anything goes to print.
Need help to prepare your files? We’ve put together a step-by-step guide you can check out here.
And if you’re still unsure, just reach out. We’re always happy to take a look and answer your questions.
Printing File Requirements
It is important to understand how to prepare your finished digital files for printing. Here are a few useful tips to help you when preparing files to be printed.
You will need to add a "bleed zone" of 0.125" around all your pages.
Convert your color space from RGB to CMYK
Make sure the resolution for your images is 300 DPI.
Export your files in PDF format for the best results.
To learn more, see our File Checking Guidelines or get in touch directly. We offer an expert file-checking service, free to all our customers.
FAQs
How much does lay-flat book printing cost?
To help you find your lay-flat book printing costs quickly, we have provided a few sample price charts below. The samples are based on popular sizes and page counts, offering a clear idea of what to expect for your project.
| Quantity | 100pcs | 500pcs | 1000pcs | 2000pcs | 5000pcs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16pp | $9.80 unit $980 total |
$2.31 unit $1,154 total |
$1.68 unit $1,676 total |
$1.43 unit $2,862 total |
$1.16 unit $5,780 total |
| 24pp | $10.46 unit $1,046 total |
$2.56 unit $1,278 total |
$1.98 unit $1,978 total |
$1.71 unit $3,413 total |
$1.40 unit $6,980 total |
| 28pp | $11.98 unit $1,198 total |
$2.97 unit $1,486 total |
$2.26 unit $2,256 total |
$1.91 unit $3,824 total |
$1.54 unit $7,715 total |
| 32pp | $12.48 unit $1,248 total |
$3.23 unit $1,614 total |
$2.48 unit $2,475 total |
$2.11 unit $4,223 total |
$1.72 unit $8,612 total |
- Cover: 3 mm thick gray board cover; Wrapped with 157 gsm / 100 lb coated cover sheet with gloss lamination
- Inner: 350 gsm / 16 pt C1S stock with gloss or matte lamination on all interior pages
- Please note that all prices are EXW (Ex Works) our facility and do not include shipping costs.
What is the MOQ for lay flat books?
What is the best paper for lay-flat book printing?
For lay-flat book printing, the inner pages are made by mounting two sheets of paper together with glue. This process requires a significant amount of adhesive, so thicker paper is recommended. Suitable choices include:
- 250gsm / 14pt C1S (Coated One Side)
- 300gsm / 16pt C1S
- 350gsm / 20pt C1S
Why Choose C1S Paper?
- Better adhesion – C1S paper has a coated, glossy side and an uncoated, slightly rougher side that absorbs glue well. This ensures a strong bond between the two sheets.
- Higher stiffness – Thicker paper supports the lay-flat structure, keeping the pages flat when opened and preventing any curling or sagging.
- Excellent print quality – The coated side is especially suitable for high-quality printing.
For high-end lay-flat books such as photography books, the option of lamination can add extra durability while also providing a smoother feel.
What is the standard production time for lay-flat books?
The standard production time is approximately 2–3 weeks, depending on order amount, size and finishing options. Shipping times vary based on your location and shipping method.
Do you provide document checking services?
Yes, we offer a free manual document-checking service to ensure your files are print-ready. Our team will review the document layout, bleed, resolution, and other technical details, allowing you to correct any issues before production begins.
What file formats are needed for printing?
Please provide high-resolution pdf files (300 dpi) in CMYK color mode with 3-mm bleed.
Can I see a sample before full production?
Yes, we provide both digital and physical proofs. Digital proofs help you review the layout on screen, while physical proofs allow you to check the material, color, and finish before mass printing. Visit our Proof Support Page or contact our team for help.
What We Offer for Book Self-Publishers
Besides our core services, we can also guide you from your book’s concept to its completion. Whether you are a first-time author or an experienced publisher, our expert team ensures a smooth, worry-free process. We handle every detail and will communicate with you every step of the way, from initial artwork reviews to the final packaging. Let us help you bring your story to life — on time and within budget.
We offer the following additional services for self-publishers:
Free Artwork Check
Limited Free Artwork Modifications
Step-by-Step Guidance with Artwork Preparation
Additional Cover Surface Finishing Options
Free Storage for One Year
Worldwide Delivery
QinPrinting Reviews
From start to finish, Jane was incredibly informative and helpful.
Also great communication.
My books arrived, and are beautiful!
Jane was prompt and had GREAT attention to detail were exceptional. Most of my emails were answered within 24 hours, and Jane went above and beyond by sending pictures, samples, and clear explanations to help me understand all the technical aspects of book printing. She even reviewed my proofs thoroughly and pointed out a few important adjustments I needed to make to my PDF files.
Shipping was faster than expected, and when I compared the final copies from Qin Printing with those from IngramSpark, Qin’s quality was far superior. The materials looked more polished; paper is higher quality, and the print was crisper. Each book was carefully wrapped.
I ended up saving 75% of my printing budget, and communicating in English was no issue at all. It felt like Jane cared about the project as much as I did. I can’t recommend her and Qin Printing enough. Thank you so much for helping bring my book to life!
Let's Talk!
By choosing to print your lay-flat books with QinPrinting, we will guarantee that you are able to create visually stunning and durable books that are the center of an unparalleled visual experience. If you have any questions or special requests for your lay-flat books, please get in touch! Our customer service will work to make sure your books meet all your project needs.
