free children's picture book template microsoft word

Free Children's Picture Book Template in Microsoft Word

When creating a children's picture book, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure that your manuscript looks professional and print-ready. One crucial step is designing the cover artwork and text files separately to avoid any formatting issues during the printing process.

Separate PDF Files for Cover Artwork and Text

DiggyPOD recommends submitting separate PDF files for the book cover and text file. This approach will prevent any potential margins issues that may arise when combining both elements into a single file. Mac computers, in particular, have an automatic font embedding feature, which eliminates the need to worry about embedding fonts manually.

DoPDF Utility for Embedding Fonts

If you are using Windows, it is recommended to use the DoPDF utility to embed your fonts. This can be achieved by following DiggyPOD's PDF Video Tutorial on creating a print-ready PDF file. The good news is that embedding fonts is a straightforward process, even for common fonts like Times New Roman.

Font Embedding and Distortion

It is crucial to understand that even common fonts require embedding due to the existence of different font versions. If fonts are not embedded in your PDF files, the text may reflow or become distorted during printing. To avoid this issue, it is recommended to use a setting that alerts you to any low-resolution images and embeds all fonts.

Pro Tip: Adobe Products for Exporting PDFs

When using Adobe products like InDesign, always export your file as a PDF/x-1a:2001 setting. This will ensure that your document is optimized for printing. If you are new to Adobe, it offers a 30-day free trial and monthly plans.

Bleeds and Crop Marks in Adobe InDesign

If you are using Adobe InDesign or any page layout program, you must include bleeds and crop marks when exporting your file as a PDF. This will ensure that the edges of your book align correctly during printing.

Challenges with Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word can be challenging to use for creating professional interior book layouts, especially when setting up bleeds correctly. To avoid issues, it is recommended to select Mirror Margins and add 0.125' to each side of your custom page size to give a finished trim size of 5.5' x 8.5'.

Interior Book Layout Tips

To create a professional interior book layout, remember to keep any elements you don't want trimmed off at least 0.125' from all four sides of your document. This will create a 5.75' x 8.75' page size, leaving room for excess paper that will be trimmed off during printing.

By following these guidelines and using the right software tools, you can ensure that your children's picture book looks professional and print-ready. Remember to design separate PDF files for cover artwork and text, embed fonts correctly, and set up bleeds and crop marks in Adobe InDesign or similar page layout programs. With practice and patience, you'll be able to create a stunning children's picture book that will engage young readers.

Free children's picture book template microsoft word