How to Print a Children's Book in Canada: Complete Author Guide

Published August 15, 2026 By Book Printing Canada Prepress Team 6 Min Read

Printing a children's picture book requires extra attention to paper durability, color accuracy, non-toxic ink standards, and child-safe binding. Whether you are publishing a 32-page illustrated hardcover or a softcover storybook, this guide covers everything Canadian authors need to know.

1. Standard Children's Book Trim Sizes

Unlike text-heavy novels, children's picture books rely heavily on wide illustrations. The 3 most popular dimensions in Canada are:

• 8.0" x 8.0" Square: The most popular format for toddlers and early readers. Perfect for centered artwork.
• 8.5" x 11.0" Portrait: Ideal for full-page vertical illustrations and school library storytime read-alouds.
• 10.0" x 8.0" Landscape: Excellent for wide panoramic scene spreads across two pages.

2. Child-Safe Non-Toxic Ink & Durable Paper Stock

Young children touch, handle, and read picture books repeatedly. We recommend using:

• 80lb or 100lb Gloss Coated Text Paper: Prevents ink bleed-through and makes colors pop off the page.
• Non-Toxic Soy-Based Inks: 100% eco-friendly and safe for little hands.
• Gloss or Velvet Lamination: Adds a protective liquid barrier on covers that can easily be wiped clean.

Ready to Bring Your Children's Book to Life?

Our prepress team checks your illustration PDF files for resolution and bleed free of charge.