Okay, for any of you that have printed books with Ingram (or KDP for that matter), I am sure you are WELL aware of the horror stories. Probably got a few of your own for that matter.
Short of it: It sucks.
Or it did?
From funky printer formatting to obscure cutting, it became an established tip NOT to use any artwork with hard boundary lines unless you wanted them wonky, or worse, cropped off!
I dont know how many times Renee from SkyNation and I have had to fight with these people in the past to get things right. And that's not getting into delivery quality. (Side of smashed corners anyone?).
But, depending on how the proofs for His Throne of Embers turn out, I may be ready to call it.
I think Ingram's fixed their shit.
May, this year, was the first time in recent memory that Renee and I received perfect proofs from Ingram. On the first go. Shocked was an understatement. But also thrilling. The paperback and hardcover test run of Beasts of London she received were gorgeous. And I don't think we've had any issues since on that front. (Read about here).
So, when Shaye told me she was sending off her own proofs last month, with the illustrated paperback wrap I designed, I was cautiously optimistic for a similar result.
And they turned out bloody spectacular.
Not just the initial print, either. But two full boxes!! Not one damaged.
It's a miracle. Hopefully the start of something nicely reliable with our pals(?) at Ingram.
(Also, can we drool together over that spine? I've upped my game beautifully haha)
ABOUT SHAYE MADISON
Shaye Madison is a Charlotte native and frequent book store lurker and ice chai drinker. She likes to conjure up gothic fantasy worlds (that both she and I wished to live in!). Learn more about Shaye and her debut by clicking Here for her Website or Here for her Instagram (which yes include amazing selfies with her cats).
ABOUT DESIGN BY DAYNA
Dayna is an Australian creative, working globally, to assist freelancers and brands to enable their visual storytelling and practices. From Netflix Documentaries and Best Selling Authors to international and small businesses, Dayna has provided design and creative solutions across a range of mediums. She now focusses on creating striking illustrated book covers.
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