How to Make a Chapbook
Tips for Writers on Publishing a Small, Personalised Book
If you want to see your writing in print, why not create a chapbook? These lovely, creative handmade books are becoming increasingly popular in literary communities.
What is a Chapbook?
Chapbooks are small books, usually stitched or stapled by hand. Historically they were simple pamplets, produced cheaply and widely distributed with religious or political messages, ballads, or stories.
Chapbooks have become popular among poets in the last twenty years. Creative writers of all genres are now embracing the chapbook as an artistic, low-cost way to self-publish.
Chapbooks are usually short, between 8 and 32 pages, and about half the size of a regular book. They are cheap and easy to make and are increasingly recognised as a legitimate literary product.
How do I Make a Chapbook?
Chapbooks come in all shapes and sizes. The most basic is made of several sheets of standard paper, folded in half and stapled along the fold.
The cover is generally made of a heavier, high-quality paper. The cover generally has the book title and the author's name, just like a regular book.
The hardest part of making a chapbook is figuring out the page layout. First decide on the size of paper you will use, and then figure out how many pages you will need. Remember that when the paper is folded in half, the first page will also be the last page.
The text can be handwritten or typed. Several popular and easy-to-use chapbook templates have been created, which you can find by typing "chapbook template" into your search engine.
Some chapbooks feature illustrations and photographs, while others are text only. Some chapbooks are individualised, with buttons or ribbon. The best part about making your own chapbook is the ability to express your creativity and make a book that really highlights your writing.
It is possible to get an ISBN for your chapbook, but unless you're planning to sell your book through traditional bookstores it probably isn't necessary.
Chapbook distribution
Many writers sell their chapbooks at readings or through their websites. Some independent bookstores will also sell chapbooks for a small commission. Chapbooks are hard for bookstores to stock because most chapbooks don't have a spine that is wide enough to display nicely on a bookshelf.
Sadly, your chapbook will probably not provide a significant source of income. Treat it as a labour of love and an opportunity to share your writing with the world. Most chapbooks sell for $5-$20, depending on the size and the materials used.
You could also enter your chapbook in a competition. There are more and more chapbook competitions around and some offer substantial prizes for the winners.
