Taleem
How it works

Process

Six steps separate a manuscript from a box of books; this page sets out what happens at each one and what is needed from you.

Nothing in the list below is unusual. What matters is that each step finishes before the next one starts, and that you have seen the book before a page of it is printed.

The six steps

  1. Files. You send the manuscript as a Word document or PDF, any cover art, and a reference book whose look you like. We check that the text is final and that the files open cleanly before quoting.
  2. Quote. We price design, print or both, in writing. The figure is fixed for thirty days and lists what it covers: page count, trim size, binding, colour and quantity.
  3. Design. We set the text, draw the cover and lay out the pages at the agreed trim size. One round of revisions is part of the job.
  4. Proof. You read the proof and mark it. Corrections at this stage are expected; corrections after you approve it are charged separately.
  5. Print. Paper is cut, pages are printed and the book is bound in the quantity ordered. The first copies are checked off the press before the run continues.
  6. Delivery. The books are boxed and couriered to the address on the order, with the balance settled before they leave.

Who does what

Step Taleem You
Files Confirms the files open and print cleanly Sends the manuscript and any cover art
Quote Prices the job and sends it in writing Approves it, or asks for changes
Design Sets the book and sends a draft Reads the draft and comments
Proof Produces the proof, PDF and printed on request Approves it
Print Prints, binds and checks the run Pays the balance
Delivery Packs and couriers the books Receives them and checks the boxes

What the quote fixes

A quote names the trim size, page count, binding, colour, quantity, the delivery date and the price. Changing one of those after the quote means a new quote — usually a short one, but a new one.

What can move the dates

  • A manuscript that is still being edited when the design starts.
  • Proof corrections that change the page count after the book has been paginated.
  • Colour work, which needs a printed proof before the run.
  • The queue at the press, which no one can jump.

Next

Request a quote to start at step one. If you already have a print-ready PDF, step one is short and the printing page covers what we check.

Request a quote See pricing