FAQ for embedded (aka printed/forced) edges
General Questions
Q: What are embedded/printed/forced edges? A: Embedded edges (first offered by Painted Wings!) allow authors to transform their book into a premium or special edition with art on the edges of the pages. In contrast to stenciled, sprayed, and gilded edges that are applied to the outside finished edges, embedded edges are formatted into the internal manuscript using the bleed/trim space and gets exposed on the outer edges of a book during the manufacturing process. It is the most affordable and accessible edge design technique for indie authors and the only option for print-on-demand printers with distribution. Learn more on our "Book Edges Explained" resource page.
Q: What books are ideal for this technique? A: This can be done for all book sizes, though the thicker the book (the more pages), the more canvas space we have to work with. This technique works for both paperbacks and hardbacks, even using the same file for both formats if your books are the same sizes.
Q: How long does it take to apply my edges? A: If you purchase one of our instant-download Vellum-compatible listings from our shop, you can have your file ready to submit to the printer of your choice within a matter of minutes. For custom work, it can take 7-14 days from the time we agree upon the design and receive your deposit and any necessary files. If you need the work done sooner, we offer rush order services for $50 extra. ***We’re excited to share that we have programmers actively creating a tool that will dramatically speed up orders while lowering the prices and providing even more customization. Sign up for our author newsletter to learn more when it’s ready!
Q: Does this work with all printers? A: From our research and experience, yes. Does that mean all printers are created equal and we’d recommend them all the same for our books? Definitely not.
Q: Do you offer discounts & promotions? A: Yes! From time to time, we offer newsletter-exclusive discounts and promotions, as well as early access to updates and announcements through our newsletter. We also have a referral program that can earn you cash or credit toward books and services.
Q: Can edges be added to a book that's already published? A: Yes,but each distributor has different policies. You may need to use a new ISBN if you're changing ink type or bleed settings.
Q: What risks should I be aware of before purchasing an embedded edge? A:
Formatting/Application
Q: Can I apply embedded edges within the Vellum formatting program? A: Absolutely! Painted Wings exclusively collaborated with Vellum (and are explicitly recommended by them) as they designed their borders function to smoothly apply our embedded edge files. If you format in Vellum, this offers low prices and smooth handling. Our files are designed and coded in a special way to make uploading a breeze, and once your edge file is linked to your book, you can fix typos within Vellum without having to return to us for a revision on the edge design. We have hundreds of premade instant-download designs in our shop and can make a Vellum-compatible file for any custom commission.
Q: I format in Word/Atticus/(any program other than Vellum); can you apply embedded edges to my book? A: Absolutely! We were applying our signature edges to manuscript PDFs long before Vellum ever approached us. We call this ‘in-house application’. When you’re ready to have the work done, you’ll need to provide a properly formatted PDF (PDF/X-1a:2001) with the correct bleed settings. If you need revisions down the road (i.e. you fixed some typos in your manuscript), you’ll need to provide the updated manuscript PDF. Revision fees apply. (Same page count: $35, Different page count: $50)
Q: What are the formatting bleed requirements? A: Our current templates require standard bleed (.125"/3mm added to the top, bottom, and long edges). Examples: 5x8 = 5.125"x8.25", 5.5x8.5 = 5.625"x8.75", 6x9 = 6.125"x9.25" Some printers request adding bleed to the gutter (inner) margin as well, but based on our experience, they also accept our files. That said, we're currently developing a new tool that will also accommodate the additional gutter bleed for those printers.
Design & Licensing
Q: Can I have a pattern/design on all 3 edges? A: While we *can* do patterned edges on the top and bottom of books, we almost always recommend against it and instead recommend solid or ombre edges if you don’t want them to remain blank.
Q: How vibrant are embedded edges? A: With this technique, the design will be less saturated when your book is closed. Though the opposite is true when the book is open, providing a unique and enriching experience as the book is being read while still offering a worthy bookshelf trophy. For a thorough explanation of what to expect with photos of real results, check out our "Book Edges Explained" resource page.
Q: Will this still work if I already have full-bleed graphics in my book? A: Our technique relies on utilizing the outer margin space of each page. If you already have graphics that extend to the end of the page, there may be a conflict. Important aspects of artwork (i.e. map locations, faces on character art) should not be placed too close to the edge of the page to avoid them being covered up.
Q: What should I consider when deciding between color and grayscale edge designs? A: Grayscale designs are the most common choice for authors. While the pricing from Painted Wings is the same with either option, color printing tends to significantly raise the price of your book because you have to pay for the internal manuscript to be in color. If color edges are within your budget, this gives you a great opportunity to make your book deluxe by adding other color artwork such as beautiful chapter headers, dinkuses, etc. We have a variety of high-quality formatting graphic packs in our shop, many of which coordinate with premade edges we offer!
Q: Will you convert a design I make for my own book? A: Yes! You are responsible for providing a properly licensed image in the proper form. Design tips, templates with instructions, and our inquiry form can be found on our general page edges page.
Q: What is your policy on AI? A: While we don’t police authors’ use of generative AI, Painted Wings does not use it in any of its designs or programs. Files purchased from us may not be fed into AI training technology. We support real human creativity, living wages for authors and artists, and recognize the immense violation and harm caused to the author community by our intellectual property being stolen to illegally train AI.
Q: Where does Painted Wings source their graphics and fonts? A: All our artwork and fonts are commercially licensed, either copyrighted by us or purchased through reputable sources.