[Jennifer R P]

Okay, I assume this is a yes, but I need to do print layout, get certain details, and THEN order my cover. Does Createspace have a draft mode? And is it still the best deal for a print edition? I've been told it beats out Lulu by a fair bit...

 

[CassieL]

Yes, there's a draft mode.  You can upload your file and preview it without submitting it for printing. Or you'll know your page count when you finish the PDF even before you upload it.  I just did my books in it and am pleased, but didn't consider Lulu as an option, so can't speak to that.

 

[ruecole]

Yes, you can set up a file in "draft" with CreateSpace. I've got one book that's been in progress for over a year. Really need to finish it. 

As for Lulu, I haven't looked into them for years, but unless they've upped their game lately, Createspace blows them out of the water (to mix a few metaphors!).

Hope that helps!

Rue

 

[Debbie Bennett]

Okay, I assume this is a yes, but I need to do print layout, get certain details, and THEN order my cover.

Yes. You can't sort your cover until you have a page count in the correct size/layout, as your page count will determine your spine width. Even the difference between white and cream paper can change your spine width by a few mm!

 

[Deke]

To get the best looking print product you need to design it in a program like InDesign. That way you avoid widows and orphans and so forth that may result from a more automated process.  Or is there a way around that? With back matter that gives you the page count and that gives you the spine width. That's what you're after right?

 

[Dennis E. Taylor]

Yes. You can't sort your cover until you have a page count in the correct size/layout, as your page count will determine your spine width. Even the difference between white and cream paper can change your spine width by a few mm!

I presume by this that when you say "ordering your cover", you are ordering the complete graphic, with front cover, back cover, spine, and 1/4" bleed?

I ordered my cover in 8.5"x5.5" and 9.5"x6.5", and I do the rest myself. I can crop the bleed from the bigger one and use the resultant 9x6 image for the 3:2 graphic that amazon wants.

 

[Jennifer R P]

Yeah. I have no graphic design talent whatsoever and I know my limitations . I have an artist I work with who will do the files and hand me the Createspace ready .pdf for only $25 more than the cost of the cover image itself.