Creating Custom Books with Adobe InDesign through Blurb: A Comprehensive Guide

Blurb, a well-known platform for self-publishing, offers an intuitive way for creators to turn their digital designs into physical books. When paired with Adobe InDesign, the process becomes even more seamless and customizable. In this article, we explore the advantages and disadvantages of using Blurb with InDesign, as well as personal experiences shared by satisfied users.

Advantages and Drawbacks

Professional Quality

One of the standout features of Blurb is its commitment to providing high-quality prints. Many users have praised the crisp and vivid prints, making Blurb a preferred choice for those seeking professional-grade books. This quality is particularly important for projects that require a polished look, such as photography books or professional reports.

InDesign Integration

Blurb offers a convenient plug-in for Adobe InDesign. This integration streamlines the process of exporting designs directly to the Blurb platform, ensuring that all design elements are preserved. This is especially beneficial for professionals who are already familiar with InDesign and are looking to maintain the integrity of their layouts without the hassle of manual adjustments.

Extensive Customization

Blurb's platform allows for extensive customization. Users can choose from various book sizes, paper types, and cover options. This flexibility enables creators to tailor their books to their specific needs, making Blurb a favorite among authors, photographers, and designers.

User-Friendly Interface

Despite the advanced features, the process of uploading and ordering through Blurb is generally user-friendly. After designing in InDesign, users can easily navigate the platform to upload their files, select print options, and place their order.

Cost Considerations

A notable drawback of Blurb is its pricing structure. While the service is reliable, some users find that the costs can be higher compared to alternative self-publishing options, especially for smaller print runs. It’s important for users to weigh the costs against the benefits and consider whether the professional finish justifies the expense.

Learning Curve

For those not familiar with InDesign, there can be a significant learning curve. However, Blurb provides a wealth of resources and tutorials to help users become comfortable with the software. While the initial investment in learning the software is required, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial effort.

Shipping Times

Shipping times can vary depending on location. Some users have reported longer than expected delivery times, which can be a drawback for those needing their books quickly. It’s important to factor in shipping times when planning your print run.

User Experiences

Many users have shared their positive experiences with Blurb, especially when used in conjunction with InDesign. One user, who has printed several books through Blurb, has consistently been pleased with the results. They noted that downloading the templates and automatically handling issues like creep makes the process efficient. For a 270-page novel, the entire production process, including ordering and delivery, was completed in less than a week for under ￡20 in the UK.

However, it’s important to note that while the final product is excellent, the process might not necessarily help users become better writers or designers. The focus is primarily on the print quality and design process.

Conclusion

Creating a customized book through Blurb using InDesign is a popular choice among creators who seek a professional finish. The integration with InDesign is a significant advantage, especially for those looking to maintain control over design elements. While there are some considerations to keep in mind, such as cost and shipping times, the overall experience can be highly rewarding.

For those considering this route, it might be worthwhile to explore user reviews and possibly order a sample book to assess the quality before committing to a larger print run.