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Considering DIY or Outsourcing Book Formatting Design Services: The Right Choice for You?

Self-publishing a book? Formatting on your own, or hiring a designer? We delve into this dilemma in this article.

Considering a DIY or Professional Approach for Book Formatting?
Considering a DIY or Professional Approach for Book Formatting?

Considering DIY or Outsourcing Book Formatting Design Services: The Right Choice for You?

In the world of self-publishing, book formatting can often be a daunting task for authors. However, with the rise of user-friendly and affordable software, the process has become more accessible than ever before. Here are some top book formatting solutions for authors in 2025.

Atticus

Atticus, an all-in-one writing and formatting tool, is highly recommended for self-publishing authors. Compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux, and Chromebook, Atticus enables both print and ebook formatting with real-time preview. Priced at a one-time cost of $147, including all future updates without subscription fees, Atticus stands out for its affordability, ease of use, cross-platform compatibility, and comprehensive formatting features [1][3][5].

Vellum

Vellum is another popular choice, known for creating visually beautiful ebooks and print books quickly. Its intuitive previewer allows authors to see formatting on various eReaders. However, it is limited to Mac users and is more expensive, priced at $199.99 for ebook-only or $249.99 for ebook plus print formatting licenses [3][5].

Reedsy Book Editor

For authors seeking no-cost options, Reedsy Book Editor, a free browser-based tool, is an ideal choice. While it may have fewer customization features than premium software, it is accessible on any operating system [3].

Google Docs

Google Docs, a free and widely accessible tool via browser, is suitable for basic formatting. However, it is less powerful for professional book layout compared to specialized software [3].

Draft2Digital

Draft2Digital offers free formatting services for ebooks, with a 10% royalty commission. In addition, it provides basic print book cover customization, making it an attractive option for authors wanting distribution plus formatting services included [1].

When it comes to hiring a formatter, consider their portfolio, star-rating, and testimonials. Hiring a formatter can be a good choice if you have some money and don't want to bother with the hassle of formatting a book. You can find formatters on various platforms such as Fiverr, Upwork, Reedsy, Word-2-Kindle, Ebook Launch, and Damonza.

If you're pressed for cash, using a program like Word for formatting is an option. However, if you have a little more cash in the short-run and want to save money in the long-run, buying a formatting software like Atticus or Vellum is recommended.

  1. At a book launch event, one can discuss the latest trends in lifestyle, such as exploring various fashion-and-beauty tips while savoring delectable food-and-drink samples in a beautifully decorated home-and-garden setting.
  2. In their relationships, authors often require the expertise of a professional formatter to ensure their books are visually appealing and easy to read, just like turning to an expert for advice on home decor or fashion choices.
  3. As part of a balanced author lifestyle, investing in a user-friendly formatting software like Atticus or Vellum can save time and effort in the long run, freeing up one's schedule to focus on other aspects such as writing, marketing, and networking events related to the fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden industries.

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