Creating a zine is exciting, but the printing side can quickly feel confusing if you are new to it. From setting up page layouts and bleed correctly to choosing paper types and binding methods, even small mistakes can affect the final print quality.
Most creators want their zine to look polished, professional, and true to their original vision without wasting money on printing errors or poor-quality finishes.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about zine printing, including file preparation, booklet printing setup, paper choices, binding options, and popular zine formats. By the end, you will feel much more confident about turning your ideas into a finished zine you are genuinely proud to share.
A zine, short for magazine, is typically a self-published work with a small circulation. It can be as simple as a single folded piece of paper or a more complex booklet.
Most zines are printed in small batches and can be as simple as a folded sheet or as polished as a professionally printed booklet with stapled or perfect-bound finishing.
People often choose zines because they’re affordable to print and easy to customise. You can experiment with different sizes, paper stocks, page counts, and print styles to match your idea and budget.
Whether you want a black and white mini zine or a full-colour art booklet, zines make it easy to create something physical without needing a traditional publisher.
Zines come in all kinds of styles, formats, and sizes, making them a brilliant creative outlet for artists, writers, photographers, and independent creators. From compact folded booklets to larger art-focused layouts, the right format depends on the type of content you want to share.
Before choosing your final setup, it helps to understand the most popular zine styles and the standard print sizes commonly used.
Photo zines and art zines are popular choices for showcasing photography, illustrations, graphic design, and visual storytelling.
These formats often focus heavily on layout and print quality, making paper choice, image resolution, and colour reproduction especially important for the finished result.
Literary zines, poetry zines, and comic zines are ideal for sharing written work, storytelling, and sequential art.
They are often printed in smaller booklet formats, making them affordable to produce while still giving creators plenty of flexibility with design and presentation.
The size of your zine affects both the reading experience and the overall design layout.
Popular options include A4 for larger visuals, A5 for standard booklets, A6 for pocket-sized zines, square formats for modern layouts, and DL for slimmer editorial-style designs.
| Standard zine size | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| A4 | 210 x 297mm |
| A5 | 148 x 210mm |
| A6 | 105 x 148mm |
| Square | 210 x 210mm |
| Square | 148 x 148mm |
| DL | 99 x 210mm |
Most print shops offer a range of standard sizes that work well for independent publishing and small print runs.
The best zine format usually depends on your content, budget, and personal style. Different types of zines suit different paper stocks and binding styles.
Photo zines often look best on silk or gloss paper for sharper, more vibrant images, while poetry and writing zines usually work well on uncoated stock for a softer, more natural feel. Comic zines are commonly saddle-stitched because they’re lightweight and easy to flip through.
Smaller sizes are often cheaper and easier to distribute, while larger layouts give you more room for artwork, photography, and more.
The materials and file setup you choose can make a huge difference to how your zine looks and feels once printed. From selecting the right paper stock to exporting a print-ready PDF, a few smart choices can help your finished zine look far more polished and professional.
Before sending anything to print, it’s worth spending a little extra time on both your materials and your file preparation.
If you’re printing at home, use a reliable printer, high-quality paper, and booklet-printing settings for sharp results. Create your layout using software like InDesign or Illustrator, and remember to export your final artwork as a high-resolution PDF.
Always test a sample copy first to check alignment and page order. For larger runs or artwork-heavy zines, professional printing usually gives better colour accuracy, trimming, and consistency, so opt for that.
Paper affects how your zine looks, reads, and even feels in someone’s hands.
Gloss and silk stocks give photography and artwork a cleaner, sharper finish with richer colours and smoother page turns, which creates a more polished, magazine-style feel.
Uncoated paper absorbs more ink and has a softer, textured surface that feels warmer and more handmade, making long-form writing, poetry, and black-and-white layouts easier and more comfortable to read.
Good file preparation helps avoid common beginner mistakes. A lot of first-time zine creators run into issues like pages printing in the wrong order, artwork getting cut too close to the edge, or thin white borders appearing after trimming.
That’s why page count matters early on, especially for folded and saddle-stitched layouts.
Adding a 3mm bleed also gives printers extra space to trim pages cleanly without cutting into your design, helping the finished zine look far more polished and professional.
Printing a zine can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but the process is actually quite straightforward once your artwork is ready. From setting up your PDF correctly to choosing paper, printing, and binding, a few simple steps can help you create a zine that looks polished and professional.
Whether you are looking into zine printing online or comparing the best zine printing UK options, understanding the basics makes the whole process much easier.
Before printing, make sure your pages are arranged in the correct reading order and that your total page count is divisible by four (4, 8, 12), since zines are printed in folded spreads.
If your artwork runs to the edge of the page, you’ll also need proper bleed and correct document dimensions to avoid white borders after trimming.
For DIY printing, booklet printing layouts and page arrangement tools can make folded or one-sheet mini zines much easier to set up at home.
If you’re using a professional printer, export your artwork as a high-resolution PDF, upload files in chronological order, and always double-check proofs before approving the final print.
Using templates and clearly naming files can also help keep the whole process more organised.
Once your file is ready, the next step is deciding where and how you want to print your zine.
DIY printing is often the cheapest option for small print runs, mockups, or quick personal projects. A home printer or local copy shop can work well for black-and-white zines, mini zines, or simple folded layouts, especially if you are experimenting with formats before committing.
Professional zine printing usually gives sharper image quality, cleaner trimming, better colour consistency, and access to premium paper stocks and finishes.
Digital printing is popular for short runs with faster turnaround times, while offset printing becomes more cost-effective for larger quantities.
From independent studios to zine printing London services, it’s worth comparing a few options to find the right balance of quality, price, and turnaround time.
The binding style you choose affects both the cost and overall feel of the finished zine.
Saddle stitching is one of the most affordable and popular options for smaller zines with lower page counts, especially comics, art zines, and folded booklets. Perfect binding works better for thicker zines and gives the booklet a cleaner spine, although it usually costs more for short runs.
For handmade or experimental projects, sewn binding can create a more tactile, DIY feel, while wiro binding works well for portfolios or photography zines because the pages can lie completely flat when opened.
Whatever method you choose, always test one physical sample before printing a full batch.
Once everything is folded and bound together, the whole process of how to get a zine printed feels far less intimidating and much more rewarding.
At Ex Why Zed, we know how important it is for your zine to look exactly the way you imagined it.
Whether you are printing a small DIY project, a photography zine, an art book, or a larger independent publication, we help make the process feel far less overwhelming.
From choosing paper stocks and binding styles to preparing print-ready files, we work closely with creators to deliver high-quality zine printing with a professional finish.
We also offer flexible print runs, making it easier to print what you actually need.
Ready to bring your zine to life?
Request a quote today →Printing a zine is a rewarding creative journey that allows you to express your ideas in a tangible format. From selecting the right materials to mastering the printing process, each step opens up opportunities for personalisation and artistic flair.
Whether you choose to go digital or opt for traditional printing methods, the key lies in careful preparation and attention to detail. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different techniques and formats to find what resonates with your unique vision.
Many UK creators choose online zine printers like Ex Why Zed that offer instant quotes, paper samples, and free delivery. Using digital tools on professional printing websites also makes comparing sizes, finishes, and turnaround times much easier.
Small-batch zine printing costs depend on paper stock, colour printing, binding, and the number of pages. Digital printing is often the most affordable option for short runs, especially for creators testing new ideas before committing to larger quantities.
Yes, many print shops like Ex Why Zed now offer eco-friendly zine printing using recycled paper, FSC-certified stocks, and vegetable-based inks. Choosing sustainable printing materials can reduce environmental impact while still maintaining strong print quality.
Most beginner printing problems come from incorrect page order, low-resolution images, or missing bleed area settings. Always check your PDF carefully before uploading, print one sample copy first, and review margins, folding, and trimming alignment to avoid common mistakes.
Popular zine formats include A5, A6, square layouts, and folded mini zines. The best size usually depends on the number of pages, artwork style, budget, and distribution plans. Saddle stitched formats remain one of the most affordable and widely used.
Small-batch zine printing costs depend on paper stock, colour printing, binding, and quantity. Printing a single order is usually more affordable with digital printing, while larger runs reduce the cost per copy. Black-and-white zines are generally cheaper than full-colour ones.
Zines use 100-170gsm paper for inside pages and heavier stock for covers. The right paper weight depends on your important content, print style, and budget. Photography or artwork-heavy zines often benefit from thicker paper for better durability and print quality.
If you are printing your first zine at home, always test one folded sample before printing multiple copies. Use booklet-printing settings, double-sided printing, and thicker paper where possible. Careful folding, trimming, and alignment checks can make DIY zines look professional.
When preparing a zine for printing, keep important text away from printer margins and extend artwork into the bleed area where possible. Testing one printed sample first helps catch alignment issues early and ensures your final print file folds and trims correctly after printing.
Rather we printed it properly?
You've got the know-how — now let us do it for you. From first zines to 500-copy hardbacks, we've printed it all since 2006: beautifully bound, every file checked by a real person, and delivered on your deadline.
Get your print quote →★★★★★ 5/5 on Reviews.io • Free paper samples • Order a test copy first
If you're exploring print for the first time, chances are you've come across both zines and magazines. Or maybe you're wondering if there's even a real difference. On the surface, they both involve pages, covers, and content. But dig deeper, and you'll find two entirely different publishing worlds.
Whether you’re a creator looking to express raw, personal ideas or a brand aiming for polished storytelling, understanding the core differences can help you choose the correct format. A zine movement is grassroots—think DIY, passion-driven, and unconcerned with mass appeal. A magazine, meanwhile, is built for scale and structure, often crafted for a specific audience with curated visuals and a professional finish.
Understanding their differences isn’t just about the words—it’s about aligning your format with your message, audience, and goals. Let’s break down the essentials of zines and magazines so you can make an informed, intentional choice.
A zine is a self-published, small-batch booklet that thrives on raw creativity and zero rules.
It serves as:
You don’t need a publishing deal or design degree—just a voice and something to say.
Magazines are professionally crafted publications that follow a weekly, monthly, or quarterly schedule.
It offers:
Whether in print or digital format, magazines aim to deliver consistent, high-quality content that aligns with both their brand identity and their audience’s expectations.
If you are wondering about the difference between zines and magazines, refer to the table below for a clear explanation:
Aspect | Magazines | Zines |
|---|---|---|
Publication Type | Professionally crafted, often by companies | Self-published, DIY booklets by individuals or small groups |
Content | Curated articles, ads, and interviews | Niche topics, personal expression |
Profit-Driven | Driven by profit and advertisers | Not profit-driven, full creative freedom |
Visual Aesthetic | High-quality, polished layouts | Raw, collage-style reflecting grassroots spirit |
Digital Formats | Available in print and digital | Digital zines exist, maintaining authenticity |
Whether you’re crafting a personal zine or publishing a polished magazine, ExWhyZed offers flexible, affordable printing tailored to your project. With low minimum orders, vibrant color output, and a range of paper and binding options, we make it easy to bring your vision to life. You can count on us for reliable, high-quality prints—every time. You can request a quote today!
Zines are for anyone with something to say—raw, honest, and unfiltered. Whether it’s sharing poetry, art, personal stories, or speaking out on social issues, zines give creators complete control, with no deadlines or rules. You make one when you’re moved to speak.
From the punk scenes of the '70s to today’s digital collectives, zines have always been about connecting with like-minded folks.
You’ll find them in coffee shops, indie bookstores, zine festivals, and now all over the internet—wherever there's a need for honest, creative expression outside the mainstream.
Zines trace their roots to the amateur press movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the late 1920s, Black creators used ‘little magazines’ like Fire!! During the Harlem Renaissance, African Americans expressed themselves freely.
In the 1930s, science fiction fans began creating ‘first science fiction fanzines,' inspired by publications like Amazing Stories. The 1980s punk rock scene saw zines thrive as a DIY outlet for music, commentary, and news.
With the rise of the internet, zines transitioned from underground to global, staying true to their independent, self-expression roots while connecting communities worldwide.
Zines aren’t just small magazines—they’re raw, personal expressions of ideas often overlooked by mainstream media and current events, created in a variety of formats. Created by individuals or small groups, they offer a significant role as small press publications and a powerful medium for voices from marginalized communities, artists, activists, and anyone with alternative viewpoints or a story to tell.
From politics and punk music to mental health and identity, zines reflect honesty and creativity without filters. Personal or perzines dive into everyday struggles, offering solidarity through shared experiences. Even in a digital world, zines' handmade, tactile quality adds intimacy.
Whether exchanged at fairs or shared online, zines remain essential tools for expression, connection, and the exchange of ideas in cultural resistance.
Digital zines carry forward the DIY spirit in a virtual format. Accessible, eco-friendly, and easily shared, they break geographical boundaries while preserving traditional zines' raw, personal nature.
With interactive elements like visuals, text, and motion, they offer a unique reading experience. Though the medium has shifted, the mission remains—to amplify unheard voices, spark dialogue, and build communities through creativity and authenticity.
Zines are as much about visuals as they are about words. From collages and comics to sketches and mixed media, they turn each page into a canvas for self-expression. Visual storytelling adds depth, setting mood, amplifying emotion, and often speaking louder than text.
Whether raw black-and-white art echoing punk roots or bold illustrations tackling social issues, zines use visuals to challenge, connect, and inspire.
Digital formats take this further, allowing creators to layer in GIFs, videos, and animation, expanding the zine’s power to tell bold, immersive stories that spark thought and invite dialogue.
Creating a zine is a personal and artistic journey. Start by choosing a theme—anything from personal stories to social issues or art. Then, consider the color palette, font, and layout.
Colors set the mood. Bold tones grab attention, black and white give a raw, retro edge, and soft pastels create a calm, reflective vibe. A consistent palette throughout enhances visual flow and keeps your message clear.
Fonts shape your zine’s tone. Pick ones that match your theme—quirky for fun, serif for traditional, and sans serif for modern. Ensure readability, and use size or style to show hierarchy (like titles vs. body text).
Your layout directs the reader’s experience. Short zines often use single-page designs, while longer stories benefit from multi-page spreads that allow text and visuals to breathe. You can also mix formats for variety, keeping the zine dynamic and engaging throughout.
At ExWhyZed, we understand that zines and magazines serve different creative goals—zines are raw, personal, and expressive, while magazines are polished, structured, and commercial. We offer flexible, high-quality printing solutions to match both styles.
Our HP Indigo press ensures vibrant, professional results whether you're producing 10 zines or 700 magazines. We help bring your vision to life from paper options to binding choices. And with expert support via email, phone, or live chat, you're never printing alone. Contact us now!
Zines have always been more than a medium; they are a testament to the power of independent thought and creative defiance, especially in recent years. Born out of rebellion, the punk rock movement and the riot grrrl movement have influenced punk zines, including notable examples like Rolling Stone, which continue to thrive as a raw, unfiltered platform for alternative culture and those whose voices may otherwise be silenced.
Whether crafted with paper and ink or designed digitally, zines defy convention, challenge norms, and create spaces for connection and community. Today, they are an unapologetic reflection of culture's rich history and most pressing issues—empowering creators to share their truths and spark conversation.
The zine spirit, grounded in authenticity and resistance, remains an ever-evolving force in both the analog and digital world.
While a 'zine' is derived from 'magazine', the two are significantly different. Unlike traditional magazines produced by publishing companies on a regular schedule, a zine often takes shape in an individual's hands or a small group of zine creators, published whenever the creator has something to share.
Making a zine is a creative journey that begins with an idea, often inspired by personal experiences and the rise of art, realized through a mix of text and visuals. You can use simple resources like a pen, paper, and scissors, or leverage digital tools for a polished finish, and share the finished product on social media. Free expression defines zines, promising much room for experimentation.
Digital and printed zines have each carved their niche. Digital zines cater to the rising online readership in the digital age and have more considerable distribution capabilities, but they do miss out on the tactile experience of printed zines. Nevertheless, both formats carry equal potential to convey impactful narratives.
Zines are typically self-published using DIY methods like photocopying or home printing, favoring small batches and creative freedom, including elements like graphic design. Conversely, magazines undergo professional production with professional quality and higher print quality, standardized layouts, and large-scale distribution.
Zines cater to niche audiences that resonate with their specific themes, issues, or movements. They often serve as community builders, and the Long Beach Zine Fest promotes community building among like-minded enthusiasts. On the other hand, magazines target broader audience bases, modeling their content and design to appeal to a broad spectrum of consumer interests.
Rather we printed it properly?
You've got the know-how — now let us do it for you. From first zines to 500-copy hardbacks, we've printed it all since 2006: beautifully bound, every file checked by a real person, and delivered on your deadline.
Get your print quote →★★★★★ 5/5 on Reviews.io • Free paper samples • Order a test copy first
Choosing the right magazine size can make or break your publication’s appeal. The dimensions you select influence not only the visual impact but also the functionality, cost, and overall reader experience. Thus, the size of your magazine is a key part of its identity—it influences how your content is presented and perceived.
Your chosen dimensions, whether compact or large, play a key role in engaging your audience and shaping the reading experience. Different sizes have distinct advantages, shaping your publication's design and experience.
In this blog, we’ll examine the standard magazine dimensions, offering insights into what works best for various types of content. We’ll also explore how choosing the right size can elevate your magazine and make it stand out on the shelf.
Magazine sizes vary based on geography, audience preferences, and content type. Smaller formats are more portable, while larger ones provide ample space for detailed visuals and text. There are common US dimensions, European dimensions, and custom dimension options available in the market.
The typical magazine size in the United States is a letter size, measuring 8.5 by 11 inches. However, other common US magazine dimensions are also gaining popularity due to their unique advantages. Check out the table below to see the most common US Magazine dimensions:
Portrait | Landscape | Square |
3.5" x 8.5" | 6" x 4" | 5.5" x 5.5" |
4" x 6" | 8.5" x 5.5" | 8.5" x 8.5" |
4.25" x 11" | 11" x 8.5" | |
5.5" x 8.5" | ||
6" x 9" | ||
8.5" x 11" |
Like in the US, European publishers use a range of sizes too. A crucial factor to appreciate here is the consistent proportion followed among the A series formats, where cutting an A4 sheet in half gives two A5 sheets, each maintaining the same aspect ratio. Let's examine the most commonly used dimensions in European magazines:
European Magazine Format | Dimensions (in mm) |
DIN A4 | 210mm x 297mm |
DIN A5 | 148mm x 210mm |
DIN A6 | 105mm x 148mm |
Apart from the standard sizes, magazines are available in special sizes and custom dimensions. These magazine templates are popular for niche publications or those dealing with artistic subjects that push the boundaries of creativity. Square formats are particularly prevalent among such unique content.
The options vary greatly, from pocket-friendly digests to larger broadsheets. Looking to match the size of your favorite magazine? Ex Why Zed has got you covered. Whether it's the refined proportions of Vogue UK, the soft minimalism of Kinfolk, or the compact creativity of Monocle, we can print it—all from just one copy.
Seen something square like Creative Review? Sure, we can do that too—but heads up: that size runs on our larger presses and can get a bit pricey if you're ordering under 700 copies. Want the same vibe without the sting? Scale it down to 210x210mm and keep it cost-effective.
Planning a bigger run? Let’s talk smart choices. The 280x220mm format (like Grand Designs or Elle Decoration) hits the sweet spot—big on visual impact, easy on production. Whatever you’re inspired by, we’ll help you create something just as iconic.
The digest size, 5.5 by 8.25 inches, is popular for compact magazines, newsletters, and shorter publications. Its small footprint makes it cost-effective and easy to handle, perfect for readers on the go. With less binding material required, it’s an economical and convenient option for publishers and consumers.
The half-letter size, measuring 8.5 by 5.5 inches, is ideal for niche publications. Offering a balance between space and portability, it’s perfect for readers interested in specific topics. This format is incredibly convenient for collectors, as it’s easy to store while providing ample content space.
The letter size (8.5 by 11 inches) is the standard magazine printing size in the U.S., favored by many publishers for its ample space for content and visuals. While it offers generous dimensions, this size can be more expensive due to higher material and postage costs.
The A4 size, 8.3 by 11.7 inches, is widely used, especially in Europe. It strikes an ideal balance between space and portability, offering plenty of room for content while fitting comfortably into most bags. This size is perfect for general interest magazines, appealing to a broad audience.
Square magazines, often seen in lifestyle and fashion publications, offer a unique visual appeal. Commonly 5.5 by 5.5 or 8.5 by 8.5 inches, their distinct shape makes them stand out on shelves, providing readers with a fresh experience. However, their unconventional format typically comes with higher production costs compared to traditional rectangular magazines.
The broadsheet size (22.5 by 35 inches) is the largest standard magazine format, often favored for artistic and specialty publications. However, it presents challenges in terms of production costs and reader convenience; its unique, large-scale format appeals to audiences who value a distinctive and immersive reading experience.
The tabloid size (11 by 17 inches), offering double the space of a standard letter-sized magazine, is popular among publishers in entertainment and celebrity genres. Its larger canvas allows for more content and striking visuals. However, the downside is its bulk, making it less convenient to hold while reading. Read more about this size in our Newspaper size articles.
Choosing the right binding option becomes crucial for a professional finish to your publication. From saddle-stitching and perfect binding to wire-o options, there's plenty to choose from depending on your budget, page count, and style preference.
Here are key differences between the three:
Once you've chosen the right binding—whether it’s the sleek, premium feel of perfect binding or the classic simplicity of saddle stitching—the rest should be smooth sailing. With Ex Why Zed's magazine printing, we make the process hassle-free. Just upload your PDF, and our team will handle the technicalities, from free file checks to lightning-fast delivery. Need a quick turnaround? We can have stapled magazines delivered to you in just 3 days.
Plus, with instant pricing, free paper samples, and hands-on support from real people, you’re not just getting a print service—you’re getting a partner who makes your magazine look and feel its best.
The thickness or length of a magazine can vary broadly from an eighth of an inch to as much as three centimeters. This primarily depends on the page count, which varies greatly among different publishers and issues. It is worth noting that a magazine's dimensions significantly impact its readability, portability, and production costs.
Your magazine deserves to stand out—and Ex Why Zed makes that happen with a full spectrum of format options. Whether you’re going for a sleek portrait design, a bold landscape layout, or a modern square finish, we offer the flexibility to match your creative vision.
Every magazine is printed with sharp detail, vibrant colors, and professional binding. With us, you’re not just picking a size—you’re choosing how your story is told. Contact us now and make your magazine worth publishing!
Magazines are a powerful medium for sharing information, sparking creativity, and engaging readers. While often overlooked, a magazine's size and format are crucial elements that influence how readers experience its content. Magazine companies offer a variety of sizes, from compact digests to expansive broadsheets, tailored to specific content and audience needs.
Selecting the right size and format also allows publishers to craft a visually compelling product that resonates with readers. While understanding standard sizes is a great starting point, modern printing technology offers endless customization possibilities to achieve a professional look. We hope this blog helps you navigate your magazine’s journey, whether refining your format or exploring new dimensions.
Typically, a standard magazine cover in the US measures 8.5 inches by 11 inches. But for publications like Vogue, it usually measures 9.5 inches by 12 inches.
The optimal size choice should ideally depend on the type of content, the target audience, production costs, and the physical convenience for readers to carry and read.
The most common print magazine sizes generally include 8.5×11 inches and 5.5×8.5 inches. The European standard measures often use formats like A4, A5, and A6.
A magazine's size is measured by its width and height in inches or millimeters. These measurements are typically established in the initial stages of design and layout.
Rather we printed it properly?
You've got the know-how — now let us do it for you. From first zines to 500-copy hardbacks, we've printed it all since 2006: beautifully bound, every file checked by a real person, and delivered on your deadline.
Get your print quote →★★★★★ 5/5 on Reviews.io • Free paper samples • Order a test copy first
When it comes to creating a zine, one of the most crucial aspects to consider is the cover. It's the first thing that your readers will see, and it can significantly impact their first impression of your work. One way to ensure that your zine cover stands out and remains durable is through lamination. In this post, we'll delve into the world of lamination for zine covers, discussing its benefits and the options available to you.
Lamination is a process that involves applying a thin layer of film to the cover of your zine. This film doesn't alter the colour of your printing underneath but serves to protect the fibres of the paper, allowing us to fold it without any issues of cracking. If you've got ink coverage where the sheets are folded, the paper, made of fibres, doesn't like being folded. So when they are folded, if there's ink on that area, the ink and the paper tend to crack. Lamination prevents this, ensuring that your zine cover remains neat and professional. Choosing to go without lamination could result in the cover cracking, which can make it look scruffy and a bit of a mistake. It's especially important to laminate the front cover of your publication if you go for a cover weight of 170gsm or thicker.
You can immediately see cracking on the cover of this wire stitched zine, below. When the cover card has been folded, the ink has cracked and this has opened up the fibres of the sheet to leave a series of scuffed marks down the spine. You shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but when it looks like this....
There are four choices for the lamination finish. Each option offers a different aesthetic appeal and texture, allowing you to customise your zine cover to your liking.
Matt Lamination
Matt lamination is the most common type of lamination used for zine covers. It offers a smooth and non-shiny finish, which can give your zine a sophisticated and professional look. Matt lamination is a solid accompaniment for uncoated or silk - not much of a sheen and it just feels professional.
Gloss Lamination
Gloss lamination, on the other hand, provides a shiny and reflective finish. This type of lamination can make your illustrations and colours really jump through, making it an excellent choice for comics or graphic novels.
In the image below we have gloss lamination on 'Able' on the left and matt lamination on Cunning Folk in the foreground. The gloss lamination has more shine and really jumps towards the reader but arguably makes the content harder to see when tilted towards the light. The matt lamination is more subtle and you wouldn't really know it is there.
Soft Touch Lamination
Soft touch lamination provides a velvet feel to the cover, offering a unique and professional aesthetic. However, this type of lamination is arguably not suited to zines, as old school Zines would not have even entertained the idea of using Soft Touch lamination.
Anti-Scuff Lamination
Anti-scuff lamination is a less common option, chosen probably once a year. Despite its name, it doesn’t really stop scuffing. It is an option, but we would advisee you to opt for matt lamination instead.
What is the best paper for zine covers?
The best paper for zine covers depends on your personal preference and the aesthetic you're aiming for. However, if you're planning to laminate your cover, we recommend going for a cover weight of 170gsm or thicker.
What is the difference between matt lamination and velvet lamination?
Matte lamination provides a smooth and non-shiny finish, while velvet (or soft touch) lamination gives a soft, velvet-like feel to the cover.
In the photo below, Ephemera has gloss lamination and Cunning Folk is noticeably softer when compared against it.
What does lamination do for printing?
Lamination adds a protective layer to the printed material, preventing it from cracking when folded. It also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the printed material, giving it a professional and high-quality finish.
What is velvet lamination?
Velvet lamination, also known as soft touch lamination, provides a soft, velvet-like feel to the cover. It offers a unique and professional aesthetic
Rather we printed it properly?
You've got the know-how — now let us do it for you. From first zines to 500-copy hardbacks, we've printed it all since 2006: beautifully bound, every file checked by a real person, and delivered on your deadline.
Get your print quote →★★★★★ 5/5 on Reviews.io • Free paper samples • Order a test copy first
