Blurb.com Features

Blurb.com boasts a suite of features designed to make the book creation and self-publishing journey as seamless as possible.

From intuitive design tools to robust distribution channels, they’ve clearly thought about the end-to-end process for diverse creators. It’s not just about printing.

it’s about empowering individuals and businesses to bring their unique narratives and visuals to life in a tangible format.

Versatile Creation Tools and Formats

Blurb understands that creators come with different skill sets and preferences, offering multiple avenues to design a book.

• Blurb BookWright: This is their flagship free desktop software, providing a user-friendly interface with customizable templates. It’s ideal for those new to book design or who prefer a guided experience.
  • Templates & Layouts: Offers a variety of pre-designed templates for different book types (e.g., photo books, novels, children’s books), simplifying the layout process.
  • Drag-and-Drop Interface: Allows for easy placement of text and images, making design accessible even without professional design software experience.
  • Direct Uploads: Supports direct import of image files and text for assembly.
  • Preview Mode: Enables users to see how their book will look before printing, crucial for catching errors or making final adjustments.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available for both Windows and macOS, ensuring broad accessibility.
• Adobe Plugin Integrations: For professional designers, Blurb provides plugins that integrate directly with Adobe’s powerful creative suite.
  • Adobe InDesign Plugin: Allows graphic designers to create print-ready books and magazines within their familiar InDesign workflow, maintaining complete creative control. This is a must for those with complex layouts or specific design requirements.
  • Adobe Lightroom Presets: Photographers can turn their meticulously edited digital galleries into beautifully printed books and magazines directly from Lightroom Classic. This streamlines the process for image-heavy projects.
  • Adobe Photoshop Plugin: Provides further flexibility for image manipulation and integration for creators who primarily work in Photoshop.
• PDF to Book Uploader: For those who already have a finished PDF file, Blurb offers a direct upload option, making it quick and easy to get a pre-designed book printed.
  • Efficiency: Bypasses the need to re-format or redesign, ideal for finished projects.
  • Compatibility: Accepts standard PDF formats, making it broadly compatible with various design software outputs.
  • Quality Checks: The system typically performs checks to ensure the PDF meets print specifications.

Comprehensive Printing Services

Blurb’s printing capabilities are designed to cater to both individual orders and large-scale commercial needs.

• On-Demand Printing: This is a cornerstone feature, eliminating the need for large upfront print runs and minimizing financial risk for authors.
  • No Minimum Order: You can print just one copy of your book, which is perfect for proofs, gifts, or very limited editions.
  • Reduced Waste: Only print what is ordered, contributing to more sustainable practices.
  • Flexibility: Allows for easy updates and revisions without being stuck with unsold inventory.
• Large-Volume Book Printing: For authors or businesses needing substantial quantities, Blurb offers tailored solutions.
  • Volume Discounts: Pricing per unit decreases significantly as order size increases, making it cost-effective for bulk purchases.
  • Offset Printing Options: For orders of 750 copies or more, they offer offset printing, which is more economical and provides higher quality for large runs.
  • Custom Quotes: Provides personalized pricing and support for large projects.
  • Dedicated Support: Larger orders often come with dedicated account management for smoother execution.
• High-Quality Print Technologies: Blurb emphasizes delivering professional-grade print quality.
  • Paper Choices: Offers various paper types, including photo-quality papers for image books and uncoated options for trade books.
  • Cover Types: Multiple cover options (e.g., hardcover, softcover, dust jackets, layflat) to suit different book types and aesthetics.
  • Binding Options: Professional binding techniques ensure durability and a polished finish.

Global Distribution Channels

One of the most compelling features for self-publishers is Blurb’s ability to help reach a global audience.

• Blurb Bookstore: Their proprietary online bookstore where creators can sell their books directly to readers.
  • Direct Sales: Allows creators to manage their storefront and promote their work within the Blurb ecosystem.
  • Author Royalties: Creators retain a significant portion of the sales revenue.
  • Discovery: Offers a platform for readers to discover new independent works.
• Amazon Integration: A powerful channel that connects books to the world’s largest online marketplace.
  • Wide Reach: Access to millions of potential buyers globally.
  • Fulfillment by Amazon: Leverages Amazon’s robust fulfillment network, simplifying shipping and customer service.
  • Enhanced Visibility: Books benefit from Amazon’s search algorithms and recommendation systems.
• Ingram Distribution: Partnership with Ingram Content Group, a major global distributor to bookstores and libraries.
  • Broadest Reach: Connects books to over 40,000 retailers, libraries, and online stores worldwide.
  • Professional Presence: Essential for authors looking for their books to be discoverable in brick-and-mortar stores and institutional settings.
  • Free ISBN: For trade books, Blurb provides a free ISBN, which is crucial for professional distribution through Ingram.

Marketing and Sales Support

Beyond just printing and distribution, Blurb offers tools to help creators promote their work. Surfearner.com Review & First Look

• Online Sales Tools: Provides resources to market books effectively.
  • Book Previews: Ability to create shareable online previews of books for social media or embedding on websites.
  • Direct Storefront: Option to create a personal storefront on Blurb.com for direct sales.
  • Sales Reporting: Tools to track sales and royalties.
• Pricing Strategy Support: Guidance on how to price books for optimal sales and royalty generation.
  • Royalty Calculator: Helps creators understand potential earnings based on pricing and distribution choices.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Highlights how volume printing can reduce per-unit costs, increasing profit margins.

Customer Service and Resources

A well-rounded service includes robust support.

• Help Center: A comprehensive online knowledge base with articles and FAQs covering various topics.
  • Troubleshooting: Guides on common issues and design considerations.
  • How-To Articles: Step-by-step instructions for using their tools and services.
• Blog: Offers tips, inspiration, and updates for creators.
• Customer Support: While not explicitly detailed as phone support on the homepage, the Help Center typically provides options for submitting tickets or email inquiries.