The cost of self-publishing

I don’t hear a lot of talk about the cost of self-publishing. To have a successful book launch, it takes more than just pushing a button. I know this because I’ve tried. And nothing hurts worse as a writer than a failed book launch.

Sure, your mom will read your book no matter what, but if you want to get your books out across the world, it’ll take a bit more work than that.

1. The cover

If you’ve read my post about DIY book covers, you’ll know that covers don’t have to cost a small fortune. But, even my covers have cost me something from editing software to stock photos.

And, if you aren’t brave enough to design one yourself, there are plenty of sites for pre-made book covers like this one. But, even there you’re looking at anywhere from $50-500 depending on the cover you choose.

It is an affordable option considering cover designers can start at $500 and go up.

2. Editing

I cannot stress enough that editing is one thing you should never, ever do yourself. Aside from the fact that we can tend to miss things in our own writing, some of us, like myself, struggle with grammar and punctuation.

Leave the editing of your work to a pro. You can find an editor on sites like Upwork or Reedsy. I found an editor I can actually meet with in person through Reedsy, which is fabulous.

But, understand that an editor can cost up to $1000 depending on what you ask them to do.

And, if you want your book to do well, this is not something you can skip, or your mom can do.

3. More than one distributor

Did you know Amazon isn’t the only place on the web to self-publish books?

While being exclusive on amazon can have some great benefits, having your books available on iTunes, and other locations come when you also publish with Ingram Spark.

The cost of Ingram Spark is $25 per book ($50 if you want print and Ebook). They also offer a hardcover option.

Their proofs tend to cost more, and their formatting requirements are a bit more strict, but I’ve had good results while using them.

4. Formatting

You can absolutely format yourself. I have done that for my previous books, however, I’m considering hiring someone for my next one, at least when it comes to ebook.

Since I’ve never done this before, I can’t say that I know the cost, but I’m sure one can be found via Upwork.

5. Events

If you want to do book signings, a book launch, attend conventions, things of that nature, you’re going to have to foot that bill.

The cost of tickets, tables, books to sell, travel, hotels, food, all falls on you.

Safe to say that not tons of self-published authors can go on a national book tour.

6. Book trailers

You don’t have to have a book trailer. You don’t need a book trailer. You might not even want a book trailer.

But book trailers can be a great shareable thing to let people know about your book before you publish.

You can do a simple slideshow cover with a voice over. A few seconds of something animated, or a live action, movie style, with real actors. The cost changes with what you choose.

My last book cover cost me less than $100 and most of it was food for the cast and crew.

7. Promotion

Any and all ads you make through social media, anyone you pay to help get your book out there, posters made, are more costs for you. Promotion costs vary with what you can afford, and what will work for your book.

There you have it, the cost of self-publishing, which can add up to $2-3000 depending on the choices that you make. Personally, for a good quality book that has a chance of success, this is totally worth it to me. Especially knowing that my book has been in the hands I’ve chosen and not in the hands of a vanity publisher.

Good luck!

xoxo,
Ellie,