Hardback Book Printing. Turn Concepts into Keepsakes
At Ex Why Zed, we believe that a book is more than just ink on paper—it's a tangible extension of your vision, creativity, and brand. In an age of fleeting digital content, holding a meticulously crafted hardback book or A4 hardcover book in your hands provides a sense of permanence, distinction, and authenticity that no screen can replicate. Our commitment to hardback book printing, especially within the UK, extends beyond technical precision; it encompasses creative problem-solving, sustainable materials, respectful collaboration, and a shared ambition to make every project—be it an A5 hardback book, a limited edition art volume, or a coffee table book printing masterpiece—unforgettable.
To help you make informed print choices when you print a hardback book, we have analysed and dissected a series of recent printing projects. Each case study highlights the unique challenges, design nuances, and technical considerations that led to exceptional outcomes. From bold minimalism and cutting-edge typography to vivid photography and tactile paper stocks, these projects represent the full spectrum of what’s possible with art book printing, self-publish a hardback book endeavours, and beyond. Below, you’ll find a curated journey through a variety of remarkable publications—each with its own story, its own distinctive print specifications, and its own lessons for anyone embarking on their next printing adventure.
Windows 95 by Kieran Gabriel: Transforming Mundane Moments into Collector’s Items
Overview & Objectives:
"Windows 95" by Kieran Gabriel is a perfect example of how art book printing can elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary. The A5 hardback format was chosen to give a compact, intimate feel to this collection of 95 illustrations featuring windows—an everyday object reimagined as dynamic, engaging art. Kieran wanted each page to emphasise isolation and detail, celebrating the beauty of what we often overlook. Opting for a matt-laminated cover on FSC-certified silk stock created a visually striking yet durable finish. By focusing on minimalistic typography and ample white space, the design team ensured the artwork took centre stage, turning each page turn into a small revelation.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
Our approach to hardcover book printing UK standards meant pairing 170gsm silk pages inside with a balanced spine that allowed the book to open flat, encouraging close examination of each illustration’s fine lines and subtle colours. The limited edition print run of just 95 copies enhanced collectability, while four-colour printing on the silk stock preserved delicate shading and ensured faithful colour reproduction. The combination of minimalist layouts and vibrant illustrations exemplifies how careful material and layout choices can transform an art concept into a treasured keepsake.
The winning print spec is
A5 Casebound Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk FSC Certified
Wrapped over greyboard case
Matt laminated to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers Printed onto 170gsm Uncoated FSC Certified
192 inside pages onto
130gsm Silk FSC Certified (16mm spine)
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full Windows 95 case study here >>
21 Remarkable People by Mark Adam Copeland: A Timeless Tribute to History
Overview & Objectives:
This coffee table book printing project required a luxurious finish that matched the significance of its subject matter: a tribute to 21 extraordinary individuals. Mark Adam Copeland envisioned a hardback volume that would appeal to history aficionados, museum shops, and collectors. We guided him towards a casebound, A4-format solution that would showcase each portrait’s depth and detail. Silk pages and uncoated endpapers combined to deliver a premium tactile experience—essential for a publication meant to be admired, handled, and discussed.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
The careful selection of a 170gsm silk interior maintained colour vibrancy while ensuring the printed imagery felt rich and substantial. The choice of an A4 hardback format gave each image room to breathe, enabling readers to appreciate subtle details. Foil blocking on the cover and spine underscored the book’s sense of refinement. The result was an heirloom-quality edition that underscored how hardcover book printing can authentically capture and preserve cultural and historical narratives for generations to come.
The winning print spec is:
270x210mm Case Bound Books.
Cover onto 170gsm Silk.
Wrapped over greyboard case.
Matt laminated to the outer.
2x 4pp End Papers Printed onto 170gsm Uncoated.
120 inside pages onto 170gsm Silk.
Four colour print throughout.
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full 21 Remarkable People case study here >>
Fever Dream by Renee Cornue: Immersive Photography Meets Impeccable Craft
Overview & Objectives:
"Fever Dream" demanded a production approach that could handle oversized dimensions and international logistics. As a photography-led coffee table book printing project, this 304x304mm volume needed to immerse readers in a transcendent visual experience. Thick 200gsm uncoated paper for the inside pages created a subtle texture that elevated the images’ depth and luminosity. The designer’s choice of section-sewn binding allowed the pages to lie flat, making panoramic images impactful.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
The cover, printed onto 170gsm silk and wrapped over a sturdy greyboard case, received a matt lamination for protection and a soft, almost velvety finish. By producing a robust, large-format hardcover, we captured the ethereal quality of Renee’s photography. Even the delivery involved meticulous planning, as the books were shipped seamlessly across the Atlantic, demonstrating that with the right expertise, hardcover book printing UK standards can reach a global audience without compromising quality.
The print choices of this impressive square hardback art book are:
304.8 x 304.8mm Case Bound Books.
Cover onto 170gsm Silk.
Wrapped over greyboard case.
Matt laminated to the outer.
2x 4pp End Papers unprinted onto 170gsm Uncoated.
104 inside pages onto 200gsm Uncoated.
Four colour print throughout.
Trimmed, collated and case bound.
Read the full Fever Dream case study here >>
Street Tools by James Parsons: Instruction and Aesthetics Collide in Hardcover
Overview & Objectives:
James Parsons’ "Street Tools" straddles the line between educational guide and visual manifesto of street photography. He aimed for a durable A5 hardback book that could withstand frequent use, handle full-colour imagery, and present clear, bold typography. We opted for uncoated interior stock to give the images a tactile, authentic feel—reflecting the raw energy of street photography—while maintaining crisp legibility for instructional text.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
Our four-colour printing techniques ensured accurate reproduction of both monochrome and colour imagery. Casebound with a matt-laminated cover, the book balanced robustness and refined aesthetics. By integrating annotated visuals and large typographic headers, the final product guides readers from concept to execution with ease. "Street Tools" proves that art book printing can simultaneously inspire visually and inform practically, serving as a comprehensive learning tool that you’ll keep on your shelf.
One of our favourite photo books and the print choices are:
160x240mm (16x24cm) Landscape Casebound Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk FSC Certified
Wrapped over greyboard case
Matt laminated to the outer
Black print single-sided
2x 4pp End Papers unprinted onto 170gsm Uncoated FSC Certified
204 inside pages onto 150gsm Uncoated
Full colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound.
Read the full Street Tools book case study here >>
If Nothing Changes by Jamie Keith: Monochrome Narrative in Fine-Tuned Precision
Overview & Objectives:
Jamie Keith’s documentary photography underscores the power of black-and-white images to convey raw human experience. The design approach prioritised printing fidelity: every subtle gradient and shadow needed perfect rendering. To achieve this, we selected silk stock with section-sewn binding, ensuring pages lay flat and viewers could fully immerse in each image’s emotional core.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
The A4 hardback format offered generous space, while careful CMYK conversions preserved the integrity of Jamie’s grayscale palette. A discreet, modern typeface allowed the visuals to dominate, and the chosen lamination gave the cover a subdued elegance. By providing meticulous guidance, from file setup to final proofing, we demonstrated how hardcover book printing can faithfully capture the nuanced tonal shifts crucial in monochrome photography.
The print specification of this impressive photography hardback book is:
340x240mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto Black Balacron Spectrum Ismara
with Black Gloss Foiling Wrapped over greyboard case
2x 4pp End Papers Unprinted onto Wibalin Natural Black
88 inside pages onto 170gsm Magno Volume
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full Hardback Photography Book case study here >>
The Little Book of Camden Passage by Gary Williams: London Charm in Compact Form
Overview & Objectives:
Gary Williams needed to capture the essence of a historic London street—Camden Passage—in a delightful, portable format. By creating an A5 hardback featuring vibrant red cloth covers and yellow foil blocking, we lent a distinctive personality to the publication. The choice of 130gsm silk pages preserved clarity and colour accuracy in the photography, ensuring each shot—whether of antique shops or bustling cafés—shone with local character.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
A neat 11mm spine and a balanced case binding ensured durability and a premium hand-feel. The project exemplified how a well-chosen format and finishing touches like cloth covers and foil stamping can transform a small-volume hardcover book printing UK project into a must-have collectible. The synergy between bold cover contrasts and lovingly captured images made the final book a tactile piece of London’s cultural memory.
The print choices are:
200x140mm Case Bound Books.
Cover onto Winter & Company Binding material with Foil Blocking.
Wrapped over greyboard case.
2x 4pp End Papers Printed onto 170gsm Uncoated.
98 inside pages onto 130gsm Silk (11mm spine).
Four colour print throughout.
Trimmed, collated and case bound.
Read the full Hardback Street Photography Book case study here >>
Illumination by Adam Karnacz: Collector’s Edition Meets Elegance
Overview & Objectives:
Adam Karnacz’s landscape photography warranted a sophisticated, gallery-standard presentation. The final product was a bespoke hardcover with Wibalin, Napura Canvas finishes, and gloss white foiling to capture the interplay of light. Each panoramic landscape demanded impeccable print fidelity, so we used four-colour litho printing on carefully selected silk paper. This combination turned sweeping vistas into intimate, immersive experiences.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
The collector’s edition approach involved advising on spine width adjustments, recalculating page counts, and ensuring the final piece met tight deadlines. Section-sewn binding and sustainably sourced materials aligned with the photographer’s values. "Illumination" stands as a testament to how coffee table book printing can produce an object as treasured as the original artworks themselves.
To mirror this stunning hardback photo book, choose these options:
223×297 Landscape Case Bound Books.
Standard Case: Wibalin Natural Black.
Collector’s Edition Case : Napura Canvas Charcoal.
Wrapped over greyboard case.
White foiling to outer cover.
2x 4pp End Papers onto Wibalin Natural Sapphire Blue.
Four colour print throughout.
Trimmed, collated and case bound.
Read the full Landscape Photo Book case study here >>
Learning to See by Mike Chudley: Vivid Street Photography in Hardback Form
Overview & Objectives:
Mike Chudley’s exploration of street photography needed a visually arresting, durable edition. The brief called for a 210x210mm hardcover that could convey vibrant colours and subtle compositions. Our solution included silk pages for crisp imagery and a buckram-style cover fabric paired with foiling to add understated sophistication. Test prints and proofs ensured confidence before the final run.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
We guided Mike through each step, from setting proper bleed to understanding how laminated covers differ from embossing. The result was a self-publish a hardback book triumph: a stable, visually cohesive product that balanced street-level grit with polished presentation, demonstrating that careful consultation and open communication can yield world-class results.
The print choices of Mike's hardback photography book are:
252x297mm Landscape Case Bound Books
Cover onto Winter&Co Wicotex Brillianta BRI4000
Black Silver and Gloss Black Foiling to outer
Wrapped over greyboard case
2x 4pp End Papers Unprinted onto 170gsm Uncoated
90 inside pages onto 170gsm Silk
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound.
Read the full Hardback Book case study here >>
Naughty by Dominic Marley: Skateboarding Culture Reimagined
Overview & Objectives:
Dominic Marley’s skateboarding photography needed a format blending toughness and elegance. We crafted a robust hardcover with anti-scuff lamination and a 148-page silk interior to honour the sport’s raw energy and the photographer’s eye for detail. The book’s production navigated budget considerations without sacrificing quality, reinforcing that hardcover book printing can be both cost-effective and luxurious.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
Attention to details like spine thickness and cover templates ensured accurate reproduction of Dominic’s carefully composed spreads. The final product felt authentic and honest—like the skate culture itself. Its success proves that even gritty subject matter benefits from a premium, considered approach to material selection and layout planning.
Dominic's skate art hardback book has the following spec:
A4 Case Bound Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk FSC Certified
Wrapped over greyboard case
Anti Scuff Laminated to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers Unprinted onto 170gsm Uncoated FSC Certified
128 inside pages onto 130gsm Silk FSC Certified
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound.
Read the full A4 Hardback Book case study here >>
When is Enough by Raoul Orazabal: Fine Art Echoing Through Paper Choices
Overview & Objectives:
Orazabal’s art teeters between natural and constructed worlds, requiring subtle textural interplay in print. We chose a landscape A4 hardback format and a combination of silk and uncoated stocks to reflect this duality. Matt-laminated covers and section-sewn binding promoted longevity and allowed each painting’s layered textures to speak for themselves.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
Printed endpapers and careful colour management ensured artwork reproduced faithfully, capturing brushstrokes and hues accurately. From concept to delivery, the project showcased how A4 hardback book printing can complement and even enhance the thematic complexity of an artist’s body of work.
The winning print choices of this hardback artist book is:
A4 Landscape Case Bound Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk
Wrapped over greyboard case
Matt laminated to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers Printed onto 170gsm Uncoated
38 inside pages onto 170gsm Silk (9mm Spine)
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full Hardback Art Book case study here >>
Miko Veldkamp: Buketan. Cultural Layers on Display
Overview & Objectives:
"Miko Veldkamp: Buketan" explored memory, identity, and global culture through paint. An A5 hardcover format provided an intimate scale that embraced viewers in Veldkamp’s layered compositions. Uncoated endpapers and silk interiors preserved vibrant colours, while minimalist typography let the art breathe, creating a balanced interplay between image and text.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
Subtle design choices like selective use of white space, full-bleed images, and unobtrusive captions reinforced the thematic narratives. This art book printing project demonstrated that even smaller formats can carry significant conceptual weight when materials, layout, and finishing harmonise.
The print spec of this hardback art book is:
A5 Casebound Books
Cover Printed onto 170gsm Silk
Matt Lamination to outer
Wrapped over greyboard case
2x 4pp End Papers Printed onto 170gsm Uncoated
40 inside pages onto 170gsm Uncoated (9mm Spine)
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full A5 Artist Book case study here >>
Ashdown Forest by Craig Payne & James Adler: Seasons Captured in Print
Overview & Objectives:
Documenting seasonal transformations demanded clarity, fidelity, and a sense of place. The 280x205mm casebound format with silk stock enabled flawless reproduction of subtle textures—morning mist, heather in bloom, snow-covered valleys. A gold-foiled cover offered a touch of luxury while uncoated endpapers invited readers into a journey through time and nature.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
The project exemplified how coffee table book printing can become a sensory experience, encouraging readers to linger. Precision trimming, section sewing, and expert handling of full-colour printing made every page a window into Ashdown Forest’s changing face.
The winning print spec for Craig was
280x205mm Case Bound Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk
Wrapped over greyboard case
Matt laminated and Gold Foiling to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers Printed onto 170gsm Uncoated
128 inside pages onto 170gsm Silk
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full Landscape Hardback Book case study here >>
Nippy the Baby Crocodile by Jessi Cox: Child-Friendly Durability
Overview & Objectives:
Children’s books must withstand curious hands and repeated readings. For "Nippy the Baby Crocodile," we produced a 210x210mm hardback with matt lamination and 170gsm silk pages. The four-colour print process brought adorable illustrations to life, while the casebound structure ensured the book remained intact through countless story times.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
We collaborated with the author to navigate cover templates, spine measurements, and even test prints. The final outcome radiates warmth, charm, and durability—essential qualities in a children’s publication that’s as visually engaging as it is physically resilient.
The winning print spec is:
210x210mm Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk
Matt laminated to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers printed onto 170gsm Uncoated
28 inside pages onto 170gsm Silk
Full colour print, case bound
Read the full Hardback Children's Book Printing case study here >>
Kittiwake Kingdom by Tash Pearce: A Playful, Immersive Experience
Overview & Objectives:
Tash Pearce envisioned a magical A4 landscape hardcover where illustrations and narratives blend seamlessly. Using uncoated stock for endpapers and silk for interior pages, we preserved colour vibrancy while introducing textural variety. The print process needed to reflect the whimsical, otherworldly charm of Kittiwake Kingdom.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
From file setup to colour management, we worked closely with the client to ensure silhouettes, abstract planetary themes, and geometric patterns printed flawlessly. This project highlights how thoughtful stock selection and a collaborative approach to print a hardback book can unlock a universe of creative possibilities.
The winning print spec is:
A4 Landscape Hardback book
Cover onto 170gsm Silk
Matt laminated to the outer
Wrapped over greyboard case
2x 4pp End Papers printed onto 170gsm Uncoated
30 inside pages onto 170gsm Uncoated (9mm spine)
Full-colour print throughout
Case Bound
Read the full Illustrated Hardback Book Printing case study here >>
The Tale of Tzarevich Ivan by Izzy Carroll: Folklore Enhanced by Print Integrity
Overview & Objectives:
Izzy Carroll’s illustrated folklore required a delicate touch. Vivid colours, intricate line art, and symbolic motifs demanded precise registration and top-notch colour fidelity. The chosen A4 hardback format and subtle matt lamination framed the narrative beautifully, while four-colour printing preserved the integrity of each brushstroke.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
By advising on bleed and page layouts, we ensured text and imagery co-existed harmoniously. The end result was an enchanting volume that proves art book printing techniques can elevate cultural heritage, bridging old-world storytelling with contemporary print quality.
The winning print spec is:
286x236mm Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk
Wrapped over greyboard case
Matt laminated to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers printed onto 170gsm Uncoated
32 inside pages onto 170gsm Silk
Full colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full case study here >>
First Words by Rachelle Luna: Educational Content with Cultural Depth
Overview & Objectives:
A bilingual children’s book blending English and Filipino heritage words, "First Words" united cultural storytelling with phonics-based learning. A robust hardcover finish and bright colours encouraged young readers to engage playfully. Balancing text, illustration, and typography, the design nurtured bilingual literacy and inspired curiosity about cultural roots.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
High-quality four-colour printing rendered bright hues faithfully, while careful page composition kept the reading experience intuitive. This project demonstrates that self publish a hardback book can also be a tool for education, identity formation, and intergenerational connection, offering more than just a printed product—it’s a cultural artefact.
The winning print spec is:
203x203mm (8x8") Casebound Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk FSC Certified
Wrapped over greyboard case
Matt laminated to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers unprinted onto 170gsm Uncoated FSC Certified
56 inside pages onto 130gsm Silk FSC Certified
Full colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound.
Read the full case study here >>
Wily Beasts by Oliver James: Clever Creatures in a Sturdy Format
Overview & Objectives:
"Wily Beasts" demanded a playful, square 210x210mm hardcover to showcase charming critters and their adventures. Printed endpapers added immediate intrigue upon opening, while 170gsm silk pages enabled crisp linework and vibrant colour reproduction. The casebound approach guaranteed resilience, reinforcing the book’s role as a cherished, read-aloud favourite.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
The synergy of materials—from matt lamination to section-sewn binding—ensured each illustration felt alive and engaging. This project highlights how thoughtful design and hardcover book printing create tactile, welcoming worlds for young readers to explore, reflecting an author’s vision in every detail.
The winning print spec for this illustrated book is
210x210 Casebound Books
Cover onto 170gsm Silk
Wrapped over greyboard case
Matt laminated to the outer
2x 4pp End Papers Printed onto 170gsm Uncoated
94 inside pages onto 170gsm Uncoated
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full Section Sewn Hardback Book case study here >>
The Skate Art of Yaia by Julio Cesar Battistelli: Subculture in Print
Overview & Objectives:
Skateboard art thrives on contrasts—raw and refined, street and studio. "The Skate Art of Yaia" embraced this duality by integrating Spot UV varnish on a matt-laminated cover, Colorplan Ebony endpapers, and a vibrant yellow cover. This interplay of materials mirrored the skate world’s balance between rebellion and craft.
Print Specifications & Nuances:
Each skateboard deck design needed faithful colour reproduction and precise alignment. Our guidance on templates, bleed, and final proofs ensured that nothing felt compromised. The result was a visually arresting testament to how hardcover book printing UK can immortalise underground culture in a format that resonates with both collectors and casual fans.
The winning print spec is:
A4 Casebound Books.
Cover onto 170gsm Silk.
Wrapped over greyboard case.
Matt laminated to the outer.
Gloss Spot UV Varnish to outer.
2x 4pp End Papers unprinted onto 175gsm Colorplan Ebony.
144 inside pages onto 150gsm Silk (15mm spine).
Full colour print throughout.
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Read the full Skate Art Hardback Book case study here >>
Partner with Ex Why Zed for Your Hardback Book Printing Journey
These case studies represent the breadth of what’s possible when creativity and craftsmanship converge in hardback book printing, A5 hardback book editions, A4 hardback book prints, or coffee table book printing projects. Whether you’re a seasoned author, a photographer capturing fleeting moments, a designer crafting a cultural record, or an artist seeking to self publish a hardback book, Ex Why Zed stands ready to guide you through every step.
Our UK-based studio not only meets global standards in hardcover book printing but also provides tailored support, ensuring your project’s story, aesthetic, and purpose shine through. Ready to turn your idea into a lasting, tactile legacy? Get in touch, and let’s create something extraordinary together.
By analysing these diverse projects, we’ve revealed how careful material choices, technical expertise, and collaborative problem-solving can elevate the simple act of printing into an art form. As you plan your next hardcover publication, remember that each decision—from paper stock to lamination—shapes the reader’s experience. With Ex Why Zed, you’re choosing more than a printer; you’re choosing a partner committed to helping you make informed print choices and crafting a book that resonates deeply with your audience.
