I have been trying to sell on Amazon for four years, and my sales are ridiculous. It is so amazing to see someone who gets back to those who ask questions... Thanks for being here! I sure need someone who reaches out to people who ask questions. I will be back! Mr. Wheeler God Bless You! Your video was published on my bday a different, year of course. Once again Thank You!
I love hearing from my viewers and I’m thrilled that you find the content helpful. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but if I don’t know, I’ll do my best to find out. Best of luck on your books. Thanks for watching and subscribing!
Book promotion can be scary, but getting word out to the world that your book exists can be the best way to get sales. Note: not all promotions work for everyone, so if you try something and it doesn’t bring in many sales, don’t get discouraged, just try something different: Best of luck!
@@KeithWheelerBooks I get happy when I google Saturated By Faith and Target, Amazon and Goodreads come up in the search...but getting an order from those places is another thing to take into consideration. Thanks for replying..
Sir, I appreciate you for this simple video! I am going to donate to you! I will never forget this, thank you so much! Your simple video will save my family from hardship! Thank you so much for your help!
I do not currently have a video on it. I flatten my PDFs using Adobe, but if you don’t have that, you can try pdfreal.com/flatten-pdf Let me know how it goes.
I like your videos. I have used LuLu and printed a few copies of one of my books. I am very happy with them. Just using for myself at the moment, but would like to try to sell on lulu later. You mention copy write Does a person have to go get a copy write for their books. I thought that if it is your material, that you did not need a copy write. That is what I was told.
Thank you so much for the kind words. Once you create a digital version of your manuscript, under common law, your work is copyrighted. That said, many times that’s hard to prove in court, so, many people pay for a copyright to be filed in the library of Congress to it’s officially documented.
A couple more questions. Knowing that Amazon doesn't allow opening of multiple KDP accounts, do KDP allow you to sell on Amazon through Lulu's distribution? I'm asking this as it's kind of like opening a new account, but just not with KDP., rather Lulu. Also, if someone gets banned from KDP, do KDP also remove their Lulu books that are also on Amazon? Just curious to know this 😊 My 3rd question is, is it possible to advertise your Lulu books (on Amazon) using Amazon ads?
Great questions. If you publish through Lulu and put it on Amazon using global distribution, this is totally fine. In fact, if you do one version of the book on KDP and another version(perhaps hardcover) through Lulu, you can ask KDP to link the two versions onto one listing on Amazon. KDP and Lulu systems don’t talk to each other, so if you get banned from one, it won’t affect the other. Unfortunately, the only way to run Amazon Ads to a Lulu published book is to open up an Amazon Sellers account. This costs a monthly fee and requires you to act as the distributor and therefore process all the books yourself. The workaround I do is publish the ebook and/or paperback version through KDP, create the paperback or hardcover through Lulu, have KDP link them all together, then I can run ads to the ebook version(because I published it through KDP,) but customers can still click on the paperback/hardcover versions that I created through Lulu. I hope this helps.
Keith. Thank you for the video. Before uploading the book, the pages should be arragned in a template, isn't it. You didn't say about this part. Does Lulu provide these templates?
This came right on time . I will be uploading a ebook later this week. For some reason my Amazon account is locked. It's a blessing in disguise. I'll look at all your other post about publishing on other platforms beside Amazon. From your channel and a few others I've learned what can happen with putting your eggs in one basket even one that's as big as Amazon. Thanks again.
Yes. The bigger the basket, the bigger the risk. I’ve seen authors’ 5-figures a month business come to a screeching halt, by KDP closing their account. Sometimes without an explanation. Remember, it’s their sandbox, they just let us use it.
It’s all relative. Compared to KDP, yes, Lulu is more expensive. That said, their color quality, page thickness and color saturation is better than KDP.
Hi, I have many low content books which sell well on KDP. They all have free KDP barcodes assigned to them. Am I allowed to publish those very same books (in same paperback format) in Lulu with free barcodes given by Lulu? Does it cause any conflict between KDP and Lulu books, or goes against either of their terms or service? Does it also mean that there will be 2 listings of the same book on Amazon, one from KDP and one from Lulu?
Yes you can have them listed on both platforms, you just can’t use KDPs free isbn on lulus platform so you’ll definitely need to get a Lulu isbn for the Lulu version. This may cause a conflict if they’re both in the exact same format. This is why I use KDP for paperback and Lulu for hardcover and spiral bound versions of my books.
So im usung LuLu global distribution to sell my books. All my customers have been using amazon. Its been two days and none of my sales have come through the pricing list sheet. When does your orders appear on the list shert and when will I be able to track sales?!!! I heard that distribution and payment can get skeptical woth lulu so Inwant to make sure my customers are getting their book and im receiving payment!
How do you do the inside copyright page? Do you have to put the words "imprint lulu" under the code? What else should be on the page? On kdp I put author name an a publishing co. I figured I can drop the publishing name thing. So confusing looking at the barcode thing on how big do they want it on the outside? If try to put it in the box area they have on template it's huge vs say kdp.
You do not have to put the words imprint Lulu. As for what to put in the copyright page, you need the title, author name isbn, copyright year and the (c) icon. After that you can put, Rights Reserved or other variations depending on the type of book.
I think I will change my avatar Keith, because I am back again. I have several books with Lulu (Joined in 2010), and I always loved their publishing choices, including hard cover. I also had the most wonderful coffee table style cover for my Runaway Princesses Original book around 2012. It cost $64 to purchase, which is prohibitive for most buyers. But, the finished result was superb in quality with silky pages and strong beautiful cover. I still have 2 copies to treasure. Nobody else online did this style back then. Now Amazon has a hard cover option, but it is limited. I think Lulu has the edge here and should get a lot of support from Indie authors who always keep writing books by the bucket load. I am in the process of ordering a custom made cover from MIBL (Ukrainian artists) because of their present situation. They are brilliant and thus far I am happy with the sketches. I will see how that progresses and if it helps sales. It is my latest book, an historical fiction with a male voice (super easy!) and a typical knight with problems arising quicker than you can say "Jack Rabbit". He is adorable and faithful to the king and does complete his impossible mission. He also gets into a bit of trouble with beautiful women in pursuit of him. Maybe I should do this one on Lulu. I will have to pay my bill first... Sorry, it is Sunday and I am just recovering from something that made me stick to my bed for a few days (not Covid). It has been resolved. So, I am just happy I guess. I might watch this again as I was distracted by myself.
Hi Keith! I heard there were some updates. Is there anyway you can do an updated video from start to finish of a spiral notebook and selling it on lulu? Do they do ads?
They don’t currently offer platform ads. I did a video, after they revamped their site on how to create a spiral puzzle book using Lulu. This may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Hi Keith, With the margins - can you turn them on and off and it prints the book like that? Also, without the margin on does the spiral book still work?
Hi, thanks for this tutorial, I used to publish with the old platform and I remember downloading Word templates based on the size of the book you choosed, can't find them now. This means that I have to make my own and then upload the PDF file?
Aaah board books. Unfortunately, no. Because board books are so costly to make, I don't know of any print on demand platform that carries them. You'd have to go through an offset printer and those usually require minimum orders.(typically 500 copies or more) I hope this helps.
Great video, thank you very much. The one thing you left out is which sizes are available on Lulu? Amazon has limited sizes and I have no idea which sizes are available on Lulu?
I did a quick Google search and here are the current supported trim sizes for Lulu. www.lulu.com/create/print-books?gclid=Cj0KCQiAzfuNBhCGARIsAD1nu-82rZKrhRw_Md5lAmGT5th6fQg3f1K3-eeGPbv2iS7PWPEwAurS1tUaApQdEALw_wcB
It used to be listed on their site. Years ago. I published on LuLu 12 years ago and decided to come back and everything looks different, which is why I'm here looking to information. LOL.
Hey sir! it was very satisfying to see you explain about lulu so informatively and clearly, I'm having many doubts regarding publishing on lulu.....I am currently in a different country and I wanted to publish a book in the nearby book stores and malls. Is it possible that lulu can transport my books and sell them where I want them to? My 2nd doubt is that do we need to pay for the printing materials as I have seen that it was written 'print cost usd 13.85' in your video, And not to forget that I am a *BIG FAN* of your books. I have recently purchased your books on kindle and it was about self publishing- do not beg, it was so helpful to me and I thank you a lot for the effort you have to put into publishing an awesome book! my sibling loves to read my knows.... series. I hope we could be in touch for future reasons! I would be waiting for you answer sir.....
Thank you so much for the kind words! You don’t pay the printing costs, that’s just so you can see how much it costs Lulu to print your book, to ensure you charge enough for your book to make a profit. You’ll have to check lulus shipping regions to determine if they’ll ship to your area stores. Lulu has done some amazing updates to their system and have some great plans for the future.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Thank you so very much sir! It was great having a talk with you! hope we meet in the future after this pandemic, thanks for the information sir! :)
Personally I love this platform and so does my contributor who is amazing I do have one question about the barcode what if I already uploaded the cover in this case how do I add the barcode do I have to redo everything?
Hi Keith, when I take a free ISBN from lulu and insert it inside my book and back cover, what should I select in ISBN section after logging in again to publish? Cause they will give me another ISBN when I again select lulu ISBN. Or should I keep the tab open? I hope you understand my question.
Hi Kieth, do coil (spiral) bound books published through Lulu also appear on Amazon? If so, can you send an example (link) of one of these on Amazon Also, do these books which Lulu put on Amazon be under your pen name you’ve chosen on Lulu or under Lulu’s pen name/brand?
All books you publish(regardless of the platform) will show up under the author name you listed. Unfortunately, Amazon does not allow Lulu spiral bound books on their marketplace at this time. It’s an Amazon issue not a Lulu issue.
Thank you so much for watching and subscribing. I don’t use payoneer so im not 100% sure if Lulu supports it. Your best bet would be to check out Lulu’s support team. Best of luck. Let me know what you find out so I can share with others in the future.
I'm trying to upload my pages but it is giving me this error message, " Page Count: We found 1 pages in your PDF. For the the book design you selected, the page range must be between 2 and 800 pages. Pleaes update your PDF or select a different book design". I'm dragging two pages at the same time, am I missing something?
Lulu is a nightmare. I’ve got customers waiting for their books with no response from Lulu. Trying to upload a book cover to the exact size they specify in a PDF, well, I gave up. Why can’t they have a super simply and highly effective publishing system like Amazon?
Stephen, I COMPLETELY understand your frustration. Trust me, I've been there. The good news is that Lulu is beginning to turn things around and revamp their entire system front end and back end. I'm really optimistic for the continued changes on their horizon. Time will tell. Thanks for watching and subscribing.
On one-off books, lulu has been pretty solid with us. We did have one instance where the edges looked like they'd been cut by a chainsaw, though. With covers, we've found just going with an image (set to 300dpi if I remember right) and then converting to pdf worked. But we couldn't get that perfect spine (which they don't guarantee). Of notable concern is authors complaining about missing funds apparently not being credited. Because of that, I'll prob test their api and see how it goes.
I appreciate your comment. I'm currently looking for a place to upload my books but I've heard that Lulu takes a while for shipping. So that is something I'm wondering is worth it or not.
@@KeithWheelerBooks hello Keith I needed help. I know Lulu.com is a most popular book publisher. But creating a book is frustrating. The annoying part is uploading images. I don’t even know what’s the minimum size to upload. I needed a big favour are you able to create a book on my behalf? I tried calling the lulu.com and asking for step by step help but their unable to help.
Hello Dear Keith I have a question if you plz: I published I SPY ebook/paperback on AMAZON, and for ebook it's on KDP SELECT, so still I have the write to publish the hardcover Version on LULU.COM and choosing Global Distribution? THANKS
You can start the process on the site before the manuscript is done, but there are steps you won’t be able to finish until you’re ready with the final manuscript.
Loving the publish off amazon play list series! So important to get back up plans in place, like a prenup, great if things go fine but essential if things go pear shaped.
Oh so true(about off Amazon, not necessarily the prenup...lol) Anywho, even if you and Amazon live happily ever after.. going wide will still help you with broadening your reach. You're audience is everywhere, so shouldn't your books be as well? (and in every format, but that's a topic for another series)
Hey, do we ever have to pay any cents to Lulu for all of these? And also if my book is already on Amazon, then do I have to publish it in order to publish through Lulu? And what about short stories? Can we publish it here? As we can't in Amazon unless it's 25 pages long right?
Great questions! 1. As for Lulu, you never have to pay any upfront fees to upload or publish to Lulu. 2. If you already have your book on amazon, it’s completely fine to publish your print book on Lulu as well. (With ebooks, if it’s on KDP and your in the KDP Select program then you can’t have your ebook on Lulu, but your print version can be anywhere.) 3. You can publish short stories via ebook on KDP, Lulu and other platforms regardless of the page count. As for print books, there’s really no minimum page count with Lulu, however, there may be binding limitations based on the page count.(the book needs to be a certain number of pages for saddle stitch(10+ pages) as well as for perfect bound(24+ pages)) I hope this helps.
So I just got my proof copy and I selected approve proof, but it's not saying when it will be available on Amazon and Lulu, Barnes and Noble, etc. What happens now?
I'm VERY new at this and I have a question: How do I produce the PDF file? I am writing a cookbook so is that file the actual recipes in WORD? Or is there a template I am supposed to utilize? #Lost
The part with the Free ISBN 3:03 ...I never done that part, ever since they updated their website, how comes you've noticed it and most of all is it mandatory to it every time ??
Hello Keith I’m so sorry to bother you again. I’m a beginner and trying to upload my first book. My name doesn’t seem to appear on the front hard book. I have put my name in the author section. But still I cannot see my name appearing in the preview. Do I need to add my name on other parts as well?
It can definitely be overwhelming! The important thing is to not stress yourself out. Take it one step at a time. Remember, it’s a marathon not a sprint.
If you use Shopify, Lulu has a seamless integration. If it’s your actual website, there are some integration options, your best bet would be to check out their site.
Hi Keith this tutorial video is great. Thank you. I had a few questions if you do not mind my asking. I have published with KDP in the past, however, my current novel I would like on Paperback and hardcover so I'm considering Lulu and this video helped me with that. My questions are: 1. The barcode, will I have to download that before the cover is completed so the cover can be made with the barcode included? My cover will soon be made and I wondered if I should jump ahead at least to that part to help save me from backtracking. 2. If I sold the paperback on amazon through KDP will the hardcover sold from Lulu link to the Paperback on Amazon?
1. Yes, you’ll want to add the barcode to the cover. Just download the template from Lulu and there will be a spot shown for where the barcode should go. 2. Yes(this is actually what I did with my YA novel). The paperback is with KDP and the hardcover is through Lulu. Once the hardcover is available, just message KDP and ask them to link them.(this only works if you have world distribution turned on in Lulu.) Also, note that only your covers done through Lulu will need the barcode added to the cover. KDP will add it themselves. That said, if you have the cover with the barcode on it, there should be a box in the KDP setup where you can select that the barcode is already on the cover. Remember that you’ll need a separate isbn for the paperback version and the hardcover version. I hope this helps.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Yes your comment helped a lot. Thank you so much! I have a designer who will start to work on my cover within the next few weeks and when I saw your video it made me realized that I should make sure that he has the barcode to add to the design. I tried to nab it earlier but I have to upload the file first and I'm not quite done editing yet. I do have one more question (sorry) I noticed that they have the dust jacket option as well as the Hardcover Casewrap, do you have any experience with the Casewrap? The cover would need to be made much different, no? I know I've seen books like that, but never considered doing one myself most likely because I never thought of it until I saw it was an option. Thanks so much for your reply.
i have a question! so i’ve had history in releasing a book using lulu and i’m about to release a new one this month i have everything set up but when you get to the point where it says order proof copy or publish, if you set it to private and order a proof copy, will you be able to return to that setting and publish the book after you have gotten your proof copy because i wanted to get my proof copy before getting it released i have a specific date and i don’t wanna accidentally release the project a few weeks early. i’ve been wanting to ask this question because i haven’t found anyone asking that kind of question in the internet and such. like if i wanted to set it private, order copy, and once i get my copy, would i be able to go back into the project and go to that select. i hope you get this message and have a nice day!!
Technically, yes if you set it to private you can go back and change it. That said it’s not really necessary. The private vs public option has to do with how you want to sell the book. If you just want it for personal use and not sell it publicly, then you’ll mark it as private. If you plan on selling it online, then select the public option. As for launching the book, you can order a proof and keep the book as a saved draft which means it won’t publish live. Then when you’ve approved the proof, you can publish the book. I hope this helps.
@@KeithWheelerBooksthank you and it helps a lot!! and when i do the save draft is there an option to press or will it go into your drafts immediately and such?
@@KeithWheelerBooks Yes, the app worked perfectly but can I use both for the same book listing? Does Amazon's terms allow me to use both KDP and list the book on my website as well using Lulu's printing? The goal is to use both Amazon's network but offer it on our website for customers that prefer not to use Amazon.
If you’re enrolled in the KDP Select program, then you can ONLY have your ebook available on Amazon. The print version and audiobook can be anywhere you want. If you’re not enrolled in KDP Select, then you can have your ebook on multiple platforms (including your own website)
@@KeithWheelerBooks You're awesome! I found this in their terms a few minutes ago but it's great to get extra confirmation. Thank you for your quick responses to this. 👍
@@KeithWheelerBooks Thanks for the reply. That makes sense. How does an email list help in this case? Is it primarily for sending those in your list the link of your book to buy? Sorry, new to this but studying up and interested in selling a photo book. Trying to decide between Lulu or Blurb.
Regardless of which platform you use, I strongly suggest putting in a call to action to join your newsletter. Once they’re on your email list you can reach out to them for future books, etc. That’s when they’re truly your customers. I’ve used Lulu numerous times, but have never tried our Blurb. Keep us posted on what you decide to go with.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Excellent, yes, I'll definitely be sure to include my call to action. Thanks again for the advice, super helpful about the email list, and will do! :)
Hi I’ve been trying to get an ebook on to Lulu. I already have the paperback one. I have entered exactly as per your video. I removed a subtitle to make it easier and at Lulus suggestion removed all extra text on the title and copyright pages. Use cut and paste on to make sure no mistakes. Title on copyright always rejected. I’m stumped. Lulu not ver responsive. Any suggestions please. Thanks
Great questions. If you select global distribution, your book will be available on amazon as well as other online sites. Yes, you can have your paperback on KDP and your spiral or hardcover on Lulu. Just remember to link your hardcover/spiral bound to your amazon sales page.
@@KeithWheelerBooks can u pls make a video on how to do that?? Also, for global distribution of lulu..is it a must to buy one proof copy? Is it worth opting for global distribution? Should we opt for it or just the bookstore would do the needful
If you mean a video on linking the books on your Amazon page, all you have to do is send a message to KDP asking for them to link the books.(you’ll need the isbn of each) I suggest going with global distribution since Lulu doesn’t have a large shopping traffic on their store compared to Amazon.
Hey Mr. Wheeler, I know you have published a book or two on Lulu. I wanted to publish my children's book with Lulu. I did the research starting back in early March 2019 and found them to be a reliable source that put out good product based on feedback from people like yourself. I am now in a quandary as to whether this is still a good idea in 2020/2021 because of recent feedback about scams, low quality since they re-vamped their processes this year. Would you consider doing a new video on them if possible to give folks an update as to whether or not they are worthy of our time? Thanks for any advice and consideration you might have.
Great video. Very user-friendly. I have 2 questions: If I have a free ISBN for my book on KDP, can I also use the free ISBN on Lulu? And do you have a video that goes into more detail about creating a cover on Lulu?
Great questions! 1. No, the free ISBNs that some platforms provide(like KDP) are platform specific and cannot be used on other platforms. That said, Lulu does offer free ISBNs as well. 2. Unfortunately, I do not currently have a video on creating covers on Lulu. I’ll add that to my todo list.
If you chose global distribution, it can take up to a week to show up on Amazon. If you did not choose global distribution, then your books will only be on Lulu.
wooow great n informative vid as always dear Keith. I have a question if you plz: if I published my book on amazon as e-book n paperback and for e-book I've chosen KDP SELECT so still I have the right to publish the paperback on lulu as HARDCOVER? also still I have the right to choose global distribution? THANKS.
Thank you so much for the kind words. To answer your question, yes. You can absolutely still publish your hardcover on Lulu, even if your ebook is in KDP Select. Also, don't forget to link your hardcover with your ebook and paperback on the Amazon sales page.
@@KeithWheelerBooks THANKS for response I know how to link ebook n Paperback but is it the Same way to link HARDCOVER? N does amazon accept to link three book on the Same page?
Is there a place to download the templates for cover and interior requirements prior to this upload process? How do you embed a font if using Canva and Affinity Publisher? How well known is Lulu to consumers as a marketplace to purchase books compared to Amazon? Are there terms of service to be followed like Amazon? Amazon is frustrating for low content books and seems to have unwritten rules like you cannot use the word calendar for a planner or you cannot use the word planner and journal together in the title and so on. However, you don’t find these rules out unless you are apart of low content FB groups where people share and ask questions. Then you cannot update your titles if they publish your book and then come back at you and say you are not in compliance and your bookshelf becomes cluttered. It is just frustrating that Amazon doesn’t clearly layout what you can and cannot do on their site but rather expect you to read into their terms of service. Amazon seems to be closing accounts left, right and centre these days. I am hoping Lulu is a much more user friendly experience. Can you update titles and subtitles or any other areas in the setup once published? Thank You for this video!
You can google up the templates. Lulu isn’t a marketplace that has a lot of organic traffic, but you can send them to your Lulu link and they shouldn’t have an issue with it. Yes, there are terms of service for each platform you publish through.
Hi Sir Sorry to bother you. You didn't not show me the video you have done about how to upload and add your own ISBN on canva. I will appreciate the link to that video. Thanks 🙌
I don’t have a video on adding an isbn to your cover, but I did comment a video link for how to create a book cover in Canva. You also could simply search it up on TH-cam as well and it should pull up my video.
Good morning Mr. Wheeler, I wanted to ask about the price that Lulu sets if you choose the revenue goal. How do you justify the price of 32.95 for a hardcover children's book. When I tried to set my price for the hardcover that was 14.88 to make, it was 34.72. Who is going to buy a 32 page book for that price from an unknown author if I do global distribution? I can set my own price if I just do sales from Lulu's bookstore only. I'm sure I'm probably missing something and the book may not actually be priced that high, but I need advice from someone who knows what's what? Please advise, thanks.
You can set a discount for those purchasing directly from the website(Lulu.com) but remember when you launch to global distribution, the third party vendors(like Amazon) want their cut. Hence the higher price.
will lulu promote your books & bring you customers or do you have to promote your own books to bring in sales. also can u publish low content & are yiu able to publish the same books you published on amazon
Lulu doesn’t promote your books. You are able to publish low and no content books on Lulu as well as books you’ve already published in other platforms.
Please how soon. I am published my book on Lulu and has failed Global distribution because they didn't put the ISBN on my book like Amazon and Ingramspark. I heard that if you choose their ISBN they will do it for you but if you have your own you have to do it yourself. I am using my own cover and ISBN. Thanks 🙌
I’m currently moving my parents over 1100 miles, so I won’t have time to do the video for at least a month. I have a video on how to create a book cover in Canva. You can use the same method for this, just use the Lulu template and dimensions instead of kdp/createspace. And if hen add in the barcode.
I published with lulu for many years and it was perfect for me. Now they change their site so, that it is impossible to upload word format, but we have upload PDF format. I am not a professional and have problem to do this. So, I need to look for another self publishing company.
Thank you so much for this information. I'm unable to publish on KDP because I don't have a tax identification number. Do I need a tax identification number to publish on Lulu?
Hi Mr. Wheeler, I didn't know where to go to possibly get an answer to this question. I just got my proof copy from Lulu. It had ink drag problems on some of the wording and a few raised areas through the text. I figure this is probably just an issue with this particular copy and may not happen on another copy when I order it. What should someone do when this occurs, is there anything you can do? Is this to be looked at from each individual buyer as to what they should do to get another copy if one doesn't come to them in perfect condition? Now that I have gotten the proof, I need to go back into my account to approve this before it becomes accessible to everyone. Should I do that? Please advise when you have time to spare, thank you.
Hi Keith, I'm writing a poetry book and Lulu does not allow me to upload my pdf due to font embedded. How do i solve this? My whole book is using Constantia and it's already embedded. I have also went to save option and make sure that what is supposed to be tick is done.
That’s very odd. So you set your save options to embed font. The question is are you saving your file as a pdf or exporting it as a pdf. I use to export as pdf, but remember, you’re setting the “save” parameters not the “export” so you need to be sure you’re saving as pdf not exporting. I hope this helps!
@@KeithWheelerBooks Hello! I am super late but what does this mean? Is this a way for your Amazon customers to get to your Lulu book? I want a way to sell spirals but my customers are on Amazon.
Unfortunately, Amazon does not allow spiral bound books from POD(Print on Demand) platforms. The two best ways to sell spiral bound books from Lulu would be: 1. Set up a sales page on your website and have it link directly to Lulu.(this will give you the highest profit) 2. Try and set up an Amazon Seller account and sell the spirals through there.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Got it! I have over 50 low content journals on Amazon but people are asking for spiral books now. I need a passive way to meet that demand. Looks like Lulu print on demand may be the way to go
I have a doubt. If I publish a paperback book on Amazon, can I publish the same book with the same cover and written material in a hardcover edition on lulu??
You sure can! In fact, if you create the hardcover on Lulu and select World Wide Distribution, it'll also be available on Amazon. You can then, after it's visible on Amazon, reach out to KDP support and have your hardcover sales page linked to your other versions on Amazon. So I have my ebook, paperback, audiobook and hardcover all linked together on the Amazon Sales page.
If you only pick Lulu distribution then you have limitations to the countries it’s available in, but if you choose worldwide distribution, you’ll have more global distribution. See here for more info: media.lulu.com/index.php/s/2gjQFRpneJCryyA/download?
May I ask... what are the cons of publishing with Amazon? The reason I've decided to look elsewhere is that they required me to give my TIN/SIN in order to upload it seems... so I found that really sketchy as a Canadian...
The biggest con when it comes with publishing with Amazon is 2 fold. 1. Overall, the royalties are lower than most other platforms. 2. They occasionally go through and “clean house” meaning they terminate a ton of accounts to get rid of those misusing the platform. I’m all for this, as it’s to ensure only the good quality books are on the market. The issue is that, many times, innocent authors get caught in the crosshairs and get their accounts closed too. Now, in KDPs defense, I do know that many times they’ll acknowledge their mistake and reinstate the account. But not always. Regardless of which platform or platforms you choose, remember we’re playing in THEIR sandbox, so they can change the rules or pull the plug at any given time. So be sure to stay up to date on the TOS of the platform.
hi ,all of my ebooks projects is approved for distribution on lulu , thanks for ur help , how long it will take to distribute my ebooks from lulu on other site( global) , how can i find my books there ( kindle , kobo , etc etc )
I have been researching the best option to publish my photo book all day today and am asking various sources their opinion on the matter. I've been looking at Lulu, KDP, Ingramsparks, Kobo, blurb, and/or running a kickstarter and having the preorders printed at a local print shop. I'm a first time publisher who has had an art project that a small number of fans have asked I print. I was considering hard back but, could probably get away with a soft cover, about 30 pages, and I don't imagine this book would ever be in bookstores but... what the heck do I know? Any advice would be much appreciated. You seem to have loads of content that will be keeping me occupied for quite some time as I research.
Excellent question! For photo books, I’d go with either Lulu or IngramSpark. If you want a completely free option, then Lulu is your best option. IngramSpark charges a setup fee of $49 as well as $25 every time you make changes. Lulu is completely free. Just be sure to select their photo book option. This prints on thicker paper, so there’s no color bleed. Best of luck!
@@KeithWheelerBooks First off; thank you for your response. It's greatly appreciated. After another day of weighing the pros and cons, I'm nearly convinced that I'll be going with Lulu, (and doing a kickstarter to promote where I can and get pre-orders in). Now, if you'll excuse me, I have your other videos to binge. (Great content. Keep it up!)
Just published my first book with Lulu, it went live yesterday. Can't say that my experience with Lulu was all that stellar. Their lethargic response time, both for support and proof delivery was exacerbating, annoying, and wholly unacceptable in my opinion. Seriously, they can only manage 1 email a day? And more than week from order to delivery, even with paid expedited delivery? I had trouble with their ISBN/Barcode being blurry, which they apparently couldn't fix. Rather that appearing printed it looked like a low resolution image. In the end I said oh well because I didn't want to stretch out the release weeks longer. Was I really expecting too much? I'll probably try a different publisher for my next effort. Live and learn I suppose.
I’m so sorry to hear about all of your problems, though I’m excited to hear that you published your first book. Congratulations and I hope things go smoother for you in the future!
As of right now, that lulu link isn't working. Your site is, but that subdomain short cut is not. I tried a different word instead of "lulu" and your WP site gave a 404 error, but not lulu. It tries to go somewhere, and then says site cannot be reached. So, I fear you either typed/pasted the affiliate link wrong, or the affiliate program is dead, or some other reason.
Thank you so much for the video. I accidently approved my proof before receiving it....how do I go back and change it from global distrubution to private until I review the proof???? I was not ready for it to be out....
@@WillieDiggsTV My apologies. I was answering in regards to KDP, I missed the part that you were responding on the Lulu video. In Lulu, go to My Projects, next to your book there will be a blue box that says "retire". Select retire and then after you receive your proof, if there are revisions that need to be made, you can click "revise". If everything looks good just select "restore". I hope this helps.
I have published several times with LULU...now I am stalled because I am unable to select book size, paper, etc. I only want to print up a sample copy. I'm not looking to sell right now. I want a paperback book in my hands and the new system is just so stubborn. I miss the old way of publishing. What do I do now?
can i type up the book on google docs if not what other software do i use to type it up and im confused on copyright and all that copyright info i see on the first pages on books what do i do about that
Thank you! You broke it down well...
So glad you found it helpful! 😊👍
I have been trying to sell on Amazon for four years, and my sales are ridiculous.
It is so amazing to see someone who gets back to those who ask questions...
Thanks for being here! I sure need someone who reaches out to people who ask questions.
I will be back! Mr. Wheeler God Bless You! Your video was published on my bday a different, year of course.
Once again Thank You!
I love hearing from my viewers and I’m thrilled that you find the content helpful.
I don’t claim to have all the answers, but if I don’t know, I’ll do my best to find out.
Best of luck on your books.
Thanks for watching and subscribing!
@@KeithWheelerBooks I'm am at the crossroads of promotion! Trying to see whats my next proper step..
Book promotion can be scary, but getting word out to the world that your book exists can be the best way to get sales.
Note: not all promotions work for everyone, so if you try something and it doesn’t bring in many sales, don’t get discouraged, just try something different:
Best of luck!
@@KeithWheelerBooks I get happy when I google Saturated By Faith and Target, Amazon and Goodreads come up in the search...but getting an order from those places is another thing to take into consideration. Thanks for replying..
Yep baby steps
Sir, I appreciate you for this simple video! I am going to donate to you! I will never forget this, thank you so much! Your simple video will save my family from hardship! Thank you so much for your help!
I’m so glad you found the video helpful.
Your awesome, I loved how you explained everything
Thank you so much for the kind words. I’m glad you found the content helpful.
Hi im trying to do the same.. But im having trouble to upload pictures
Okay thanks
Will do
Wishing you all the best 🙏
Thank you! You too!
How do you flatten the layers? I have an illustrated book and can't figure out how to do that. Do you have a video about it? Thank you!
I do not currently have a video on it. I flatten my PDFs using Adobe, but if you don’t have that, you can try pdfreal.com/flatten-pdf
Let me know how it goes.
I thank you so much for responding, you have no idea how precious that is. I look forward to seeing your future update.
You’re so very welcome!
Me Too!
This is a thorough tutorial and quite helpful! Thank God.
Glad it was helpful!
You are amazing, God bless you with more.
Thank you so much! I’m glad you’re enjoying the content!
Hey Keith, I appreciate this video. Thank you so much!
My pleasure. Thank you so much for the kind words!
very helpful. Thank you Keith!
You’re very welcome!
I like your videos. I have used LuLu and printed a few copies of one of my books. I am very happy with them. Just using for myself at the moment, but would like to try to sell on lulu later. You mention copy write Does a person have to go get a copy write for their books. I thought that if it is your material, that you did not need a copy write. That is what I was told.
Thank you so much for the kind words.
Once you create a digital version of your manuscript, under common law, your work is copyrighted. That said, many times that’s hard to prove in court, so, many people pay for a copyright to be filed in the library of Congress to it’s officially documented.
A couple more questions. Knowing that Amazon doesn't allow opening of multiple KDP accounts, do KDP allow you to sell on Amazon through Lulu's distribution? I'm asking this as it's kind of like opening a new account, but just not with KDP., rather Lulu.
Also, if someone gets banned from KDP, do KDP also remove their Lulu books that are also on Amazon? Just curious to know this 😊
My 3rd question is, is it possible to advertise your Lulu books (on Amazon) using Amazon ads?
Great questions.
If you publish through Lulu and put it on Amazon using global distribution, this is totally fine. In fact, if you do one version of the book on KDP and another version(perhaps hardcover) through Lulu, you can ask KDP to link the two versions onto one listing on Amazon.
KDP and Lulu systems don’t talk to each other, so if you get banned from one, it won’t affect the other.
Unfortunately, the only way to run Amazon Ads to a Lulu published book is to open up an Amazon Sellers account. This costs a monthly fee and requires you to act as the distributor and therefore process all the books yourself.
The workaround I do is publish the ebook and/or paperback version through KDP, create the paperback or hardcover through Lulu, have KDP link them all together, then I can run ads to the ebook version(because I published it through KDP,) but customers can still click on the paperback/hardcover versions that I created through Lulu.
I hope this helps.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Great info once again. Thank you!
Glad I was able to assist.
Keith. Thank you for the video.
Before uploading the book, the pages should be arragned in a template, isn't it. You didn't say about this part. Does Lulu provide these templates?
You don’t necessarily need to arrange it with the template, but if you want the template, yes you can get it from their site.
This came right on time . I will be uploading a ebook later this week. For some reason my Amazon account is locked. It's a blessing in disguise. I'll look at all your other post about publishing on other platforms beside Amazon. From your channel and a few others I've learned what can happen with putting your eggs in one basket even one that's as big as Amazon. Thanks again.
Yes. The bigger the basket, the bigger the risk. I’ve seen authors’ 5-figures a month business come to a screeching halt, by KDP closing their account. Sometimes without an explanation.
Remember, it’s their sandbox, they just let us use it.
A great option to look into for a hardcover book. Right now I only publish paperbacks on KDP .
I figure, readers like different formats of books, so I try to provide as much variety as possible.
This is a good video. I'm considering using Lulu for my next book.
A very excellent idea! Their quality of work is impressive.
@@KeithWheelerBooks I get confused because some people say that self-publishing with Lulu is expensive.
It’s all relative. Compared to KDP, yes, Lulu is more expensive. That said, their color quality, page thickness and color saturation is better than KDP.
Well done.
Thank you so much.
Hi, I have many low content books which sell well on KDP. They all have free KDP barcodes assigned to them. Am I allowed to publish those very same books (in same paperback format) in Lulu with free barcodes given by Lulu?
Does it cause any conflict between KDP and Lulu books, or goes against either of their terms or service? Does it also mean that there will be 2 listings of the same book on Amazon, one from KDP and one from Lulu?
Yes you can have them listed on both platforms, you just can’t use KDPs free isbn on lulus platform so you’ll definitely need to get a Lulu isbn for the Lulu version.
This may cause a conflict if they’re both in the exact same format. This is why I use KDP for paperback and Lulu for hardcover and spiral bound versions of my books.
@@KeithWheelerBooks thank you
My pleasure.
So im usung LuLu global distribution to sell my books. All my customers have been using amazon. Its been two days and none of my sales have come through the pricing list sheet. When does your orders appear on the list shert and when will I be able to track sales?!!! I heard that distribution and payment can get skeptical woth lulu so Inwant to make sure my customers are getting their book and im receiving payment!
Unfortunately, 3rd party sites, like Amazon only report sales to Lulu once a month.
How do you do the inside copyright page? Do you have to put the words "imprint lulu" under the code? What else should be on the page? On kdp I put author name an a publishing co. I figured I can drop the publishing name thing. So confusing looking at the barcode thing on how big do they want it on the outside? If try to put it in the box area they have on template it's huge vs say kdp.
You do not have to put the words imprint Lulu. As for what to put in the copyright page, you need the title, author name isbn, copyright year and the (c) icon.
After that you can put, Rights Reserved or other variations depending on the type of book.
I think I will change my avatar Keith, because I am back again. I have several books with Lulu (Joined in 2010), and I always loved their publishing choices, including hard cover. I also had the most wonderful coffee table style cover for my Runaway Princesses Original book around 2012. It cost $64 to purchase, which is prohibitive for most buyers. But, the finished result was superb in quality with silky pages and strong beautiful cover. I still have 2 copies to treasure. Nobody else online did this style back then. Now Amazon has a hard cover option, but it is limited. I think Lulu has the edge here and should get a lot of support from Indie authors who always keep writing books by the bucket load. I am in the process of ordering a custom made cover from MIBL (Ukrainian artists) because of their present situation. They are brilliant and thus far I am happy with the sketches. I will see how that progresses and if it helps sales. It is my latest book, an historical fiction with a male voice (super easy!) and a typical knight with problems arising quicker than you can say "Jack Rabbit". He is adorable and faithful to the king and does complete his impossible mission. He also gets into a bit of trouble with beautiful women in pursuit of him. Maybe I should do this one on Lulu. I will have to pay my bill first... Sorry, it is Sunday and I am just recovering from something that made me stick to my bed for a few days (not Covid). It has been resolved. So, I am just happy I guess. I might watch this again as I was distracted by myself.
That’s super exciting! Thanks for your support!
Hi Keith! I heard there were some updates. Is there anyway you can do an updated video from start to finish of a spiral notebook and selling it on lulu? Do they do ads?
They don’t currently offer platform ads. I did a video, after they revamped their site on how to create a spiral puzzle book using Lulu. This may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Hi Keith, With the margins - can you turn them on and off and it prints the book like that? Also, without the margin on does the spiral book still work?
The books will print based on the version that’s uploaded.
Hi, thanks for this tutorial, I used to publish with the old platform and I remember downloading Word templates based on the size of the book you choosed, can't find them now. This means that I have to make my own and then upload the PDF file?
Yeah they have templates for no content books and guides for your written interiors, but I don’t see any more templates for written content.
Nice video, thx! I just subscribed to your channel.
Woohoo! I’m honored that you entrusted me enough to click subscribe. That means the world to me.
Hey Keith, can you please advise me if lulu does the card pages books for 9 months to 1 year old?? The ones they cannot tear
Aaah board books. Unfortunately, no. Because board books are so costly to make, I don't know of any print on demand platform that carries them. You'd have to go through an offset printer and those usually require minimum orders.(typically 500 copies or more)
I hope this helps.
Great video, thank you very much. The one thing you left out is which sizes are available on Lulu? Amazon has limited sizes and I have no idea which sizes are available on Lulu?
I did a quick Google search and here are the current supported trim sizes for Lulu.
www.lulu.com/create/print-books?gclid=Cj0KCQiAzfuNBhCGARIsAD1nu-82rZKrhRw_Md5lAmGT5th6fQg3f1K3-eeGPbv2iS7PWPEwAurS1tUaApQdEALw_wcB
It used to be listed on their site. Years ago. I published on LuLu 12 years ago and decided to come back and everything looks different, which is why I'm here looking to information. LOL.
Yeah, they completely revamped their site back in early 2020.(horrible timing, but who knew. 🤷♂️)
Hey sir! it was very satisfying to see you explain about lulu so informatively and clearly, I'm having many doubts regarding publishing on lulu.....I am currently in a different country and I wanted to publish a book in the nearby book stores and malls. Is it possible that lulu can transport my books and sell them where I want them to? My 2nd doubt is that do we need to pay for the printing materials as I have seen that it was written 'print cost usd 13.85' in your video, And not to forget that I am a *BIG FAN* of your books. I have recently purchased your books on kindle and it was about self publishing- do not beg, it was so helpful to me and I thank you a lot for the effort you have to put into publishing an awesome book! my sibling loves to read my knows.... series. I hope we could be in touch for future reasons! I would be waiting for you answer sir.....
Thank you so much for the kind words! You don’t pay the printing costs, that’s just so you can see how much it costs Lulu to print your book, to ensure you charge enough for your book to make a profit.
You’ll have to check lulus shipping regions to determine if they’ll ship to your area stores.
Lulu has done some amazing updates to their system and have some great plans for the future.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Thank you so very much sir! It was great having a talk with you! hope we meet in the future after this pandemic, thanks for the information sir! :)
It would be a pleasure!
Personally I love this platform and so does my contributor who is amazing I do have one question about the barcode what if I already uploaded the cover in this case how do I add the barcode do I have to redo everything?
You just have to reupload the cover with the barcode added.
Hi Keith, when I take a free ISBN from lulu and insert it inside my book and back cover, what should I select in ISBN section after logging in again to publish? Cause they will give me another ISBN when I again select lulu ISBN. Or should I keep the tab open? I hope you understand my question.
Once you select the free isbn on Lulu that option will stay selected, you don’t need to change it.
Thank you so much your video cleared up a lot of thing for me 🥰
So glad you found it helpful.
I missed where you add your barcode after you said to copy it. When do you add it back in?
You'd need to add it to the bottom right portion of the back cover.
Please which part of the interior do put the ISBN and the barcode again apart from the back cover. Thanks
In the interior you put the isbn on the copyright page.
What a clear run through🏅
Thank you so much for the kind words!
Hi Kieth, do coil (spiral) bound books published through Lulu also appear on Amazon? If so, can you send an example (link) of one of these on Amazon
Also, do these books which Lulu put on Amazon be under your pen name you’ve chosen on Lulu or under Lulu’s pen name/brand?
All books you publish(regardless of the platform) will show up under the author name you listed.
Unfortunately, Amazon does not allow Lulu spiral bound books on their marketplace at this time. It’s an Amazon issue not a Lulu issue.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Thank you for answering and the clarification
You’re very welcome!
Hey sir i watch your videos regularly thankssss a lot for your support and help.
My question is that can we attach our Payoneer account to Lulu.com ??
Thank you so much for watching and subscribing. I don’t use payoneer so im not 100% sure if Lulu supports it. Your best bet would be to check out Lulu’s support team.
Best of luck. Let me know what you find out so I can share with others in the future.
I'm trying to upload my pages but it is giving me this error message, " Page Count: We found 1 pages in your PDF. For the the book design you selected, the page range must be between 2 and 800 pages. Pleaes update your PDF or select a different book design". I'm dragging two pages at the same time, am I missing something?
Your interior should be 1 pdf with all of the pages to your manuscript.
Lulu is a nightmare. I’ve got customers waiting for their books with no response from Lulu. Trying to upload a book cover to the exact size they specify in a PDF, well, I gave up. Why can’t they have a super simply and highly effective publishing system like Amazon?
Stephen, I COMPLETELY understand your frustration. Trust me, I've been there. The good news is that Lulu is beginning to turn things around and revamp their entire system front end and back end. I'm really optimistic for the continued changes on their horizon. Time will tell.
Thanks for watching and subscribing.
On one-off books, lulu has been pretty solid with us. We did have one instance where the edges looked like they'd been cut by a chainsaw, though.
With covers, we've found just going with an image (set to 300dpi if I remember right) and then converting to pdf worked. But we couldn't get that perfect spine (which they don't guarantee).
Of notable concern is authors complaining about missing funds apparently not being credited. Because of that, I'll prob test their api and see how it goes.
Let me know how the api works for you.
I appreciate your comment. I'm currently looking for a place to upload my books but I've heard that Lulu takes a while for shipping. So that is something I'm wondering is worth it or not.
It typically ships UPS (in the US), so the holidays usually do take longer.
Awesome tutorial, Very helpful content, as always! Thank you,
Thanks you just made life easy.
I love making peoples lives easier! Glad you enjoyed the video!
Thanks. You are a lifesaver.
You’re quite welcome.
Thank you 🙏🏼 your video was very helpful.
My pleasure!
@@KeithWheelerBooks hello Keith I needed help. I know Lulu.com is a most popular book publisher. But creating a book is frustrating. The annoying part is uploading images. I don’t even know what’s the minimum size to upload. I needed a big favour are you able to create a book on my behalf? I tried calling the lulu.com and asking for step by step help but their unable to help.
Amazing Keith😃
Thanks. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Hello Dear Keith
I have a question if you plz:
I published I SPY ebook/paperback on AMAZON, and for ebook it's on KDP SELECT, so still I have the write to publish the hardcover Version on LULU.COM and choosing Global Distribution?
THANKS
That is correct.
That was excellent. Thank you.
You’re very welcome. I’m glad you found the content helpful.
So we don’t go to the site until we are finished with our book. If we are still in the process of writing it, we hold off?
You can start the process on the site before the manuscript is done, but there are steps you won’t be able to finish until you’re ready with the final manuscript.
Thank you so much! This helped a lot!!!!
That is so awesome! You just made my morning!!
Since I am doing calendars do I have to do my own marketing. I just started on Lulu
Regardless of what product you create, we have to promote our products. Whether it’s calendars or books.
Loving the publish off amazon play list series! So important to get back up plans in place, like a prenup, great if things go fine but essential if things go pear shaped.
Oh so true(about off Amazon, not necessarily the prenup...lol) Anywho, even if you and Amazon live happily ever after.. going wide will still help you with broadening your reach. You're audience is everywhere, so shouldn't your books be as well? (and in every format, but that's a topic for another series)
Hey, do we ever have to pay any cents to Lulu for all of these? And also if my book is already on Amazon, then do I have to publish it in order to publish through Lulu? And what about short stories? Can we publish it here? As we can't in Amazon unless it's 25 pages long right?
Great questions!
1. As for Lulu, you never have to pay any upfront fees to upload or publish to Lulu.
2. If you already have your book on amazon, it’s completely fine to publish your print book on Lulu as well. (With ebooks, if it’s on KDP and your in the KDP Select program then you can’t have your ebook on Lulu, but your print version can be anywhere.)
3. You can publish short stories via ebook on KDP, Lulu and other platforms regardless of the page count. As for print books, there’s really no minimum page count with Lulu, however, there may be binding limitations based on the page count.(the book needs to be a certain number of pages for saddle stitch(10+ pages) as well as for perfect bound(24+ pages))
I hope this helps.
My husband has the same shirt, Keith. His says: Grandpa, The Man, the Myth, the Bad Influence.
That’s too funny!
So I just got my proof copy and I selected approve proof, but it's not saying when it will be available on Amazon and Lulu, Barnes and Noble, etc. What happens now?
You’ll receive an email when it goes live.
I'm VERY new at this and I have a question: How do I produce the PDF file? I am writing a cookbook so is that file the actual recipes in WORD? Or is there a template I am supposed to utilize? #Lost
When you save your word file, you can select pdf from the drop down. Instead of saving as a docx, save as a pdf.
The part with the Free ISBN 3:03 ...I never done that part, ever since they updated their website, how comes you've noticed it and most of all is it mandatory to it every time ??
You don’t have to have an isbn for an ebook, but all print books must have a unique isbn
Hey Keith! Great video. Quick question, do you need to opt for Global Destribution to sell on Shopify?
Thank you so much for the kind words. No, you do not have to be in global distribution to sell on Shopify.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Got it! Thanks for the answer
You’re very welcome.
Hello Keith I’m so sorry to bother you again. I’m a beginner and trying to upload my first book. My name doesn’t seem to appear on the front hard book. I have put my name in the author section. But still I cannot see my name appearing in the preview. Do I need to add my name on other parts as well?
To be on the front of the book, your name has to be added to the cover.
Loved the video! I hope to publish soon. Everything seems so hard. Haha.
It can definitely be overwhelming! The important thing is to not stress yourself out. Take it one step at a time. Remember, it’s a marathon not a sprint.
@@KeithWheelerBooks thanks, man. I subscribed! I hope to publish soon. I’m also working on a children’s book.
Wow! Thanks for trusting me with your sub. It means the world to me!!!
Hello Keith, Love your videos. I was wondering if i could use this service to dropship books to orders on my website? do they allow it?
If you use Shopify, Lulu has a seamless integration. If it’s your actual website, there are some integration options, your best bet would be to check out their site.
Hello, I have a question.
Can I publish my book as both print paperback and ebook?
You sure can! 👍
your video is very helpfull
I’m so glad to hear that!
Hi Keith this tutorial video is great. Thank you. I had a few questions if you do not mind my asking. I have published with KDP in the past, however, my current novel I would like on Paperback and hardcover so I'm considering Lulu and this video helped me with that. My questions are:
1. The barcode, will I have to download that before the cover is completed so the cover can be made with the barcode included? My cover will soon be made and I wondered if I should jump ahead at least to that part to help save me from backtracking.
2. If I sold the paperback on amazon through KDP will the hardcover sold from Lulu link to the Paperback on Amazon?
1. Yes, you’ll want to add the barcode to the cover. Just download the template from Lulu and there will be a spot shown for where the barcode should go.
2. Yes(this is actually what I did with my YA novel). The paperback is with KDP and the hardcover is through Lulu. Once the hardcover is available, just message KDP and ask them to link them.(this only works if you have world distribution turned on in Lulu.)
Also, note that only your covers done through Lulu will need the barcode added to the cover. KDP will add it themselves. That said, if you have the cover with the barcode on it, there should be a box in the KDP setup where you can select that the barcode is already on the cover.
Remember that you’ll need a separate isbn for the paperback version and the hardcover version.
I hope this helps.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Yes your comment helped a lot. Thank you so much! I have a designer who will start to work on my cover within the next few weeks and when I saw your video it made me realized that I should make sure that he has the barcode to add to the design. I tried to nab it earlier but I have to upload the file first and I'm not quite done editing yet.
I do have one more question (sorry) I noticed that they have the dust jacket option as well as the Hardcover Casewrap, do you have any experience with the Casewrap? The cover would need to be made much different, no? I know I've seen books like that, but never considered doing one myself most likely because I never thought of it until I saw it was an option.
Thanks so much for your reply.
I’ve done the dust jacket but not the case wrap.
i have a question! so i’ve had history in releasing a book using lulu and i’m about to release a new one this month i have everything set up but when you get to the point where it says order proof copy or publish, if you set it to private and order a proof copy, will you be able to return to that setting and publish the book after you have gotten your proof copy because i wanted to get my proof copy before getting it released i have a specific date and i don’t wanna accidentally release the project a few weeks early. i’ve been wanting to ask this question because i haven’t found anyone asking that kind of question in the internet and such. like if i wanted to set it private, order copy, and once i get my copy, would i be able to go back into the project and go to that select. i hope you get this message and have a nice day!!
Technically, yes if you set it to private you can go back and change it. That said it’s not really necessary.
The private vs public option has to do with how you want to sell the book. If you just want it for personal use and not sell it publicly, then you’ll mark it as private. If you plan on selling it online, then select the public option.
As for launching the book, you can order a proof and keep the book as a saved draft which means it won’t publish live. Then when you’ve approved the proof, you can publish the book.
I hope this helps.
@@KeithWheelerBooksthank you and it helps a lot!! and when i do the save draft is there an option to press or will it go into your drafts immediately and such?
There'll be an option that says save or save draft. I don't recall the exact verbiage.
Thank you for this video! Is it possible to use both KDP and Lulu on my own Shopify store for the same listing?
Lulu integrates directly with Shopify, KDP is more manual.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Yes, the app worked perfectly but can I use both for the same book listing? Does Amazon's terms allow me to use both KDP and list the book on my website as well using Lulu's printing? The goal is to use both Amazon's network but offer it on our website for customers that prefer not to use Amazon.
If you’re enrolled in the KDP Select program, then you can ONLY have your ebook available on Amazon. The print version and audiobook can be anywhere you want. If you’re not enrolled in KDP Select, then you can have your ebook on multiple platforms (including your own website)
@@KeithWheelerBooks You're awesome! I found this in their terms a few minutes ago but it's great to get extra confirmation. Thank you for your quick responses to this. 👍
Happy to help! 😊👍
Great video and thanks for the Lulu walkthrough! Question, when you sell a book does Lulu give any data about the customers who bought it?
Unfortunately, no. Just like with Amazon, they’re their customer, not yours, which is why an email list is so important.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Thanks for the reply. That makes sense. How does an email list help in this case? Is it primarily for sending those in your list the link of your book to buy? Sorry, new to this but studying up and interested in selling a photo book. Trying to decide between Lulu or Blurb.
Regardless of which platform you use, I strongly suggest putting in a call to action to join your newsletter.
Once they’re on your email list you can reach out to them for future books, etc. That’s when they’re truly your customers.
I’ve used Lulu numerous times, but have never tried our Blurb. Keep us posted on what you decide to go with.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Excellent, yes, I'll definitely be sure to include my call to action. Thanks again for the advice, super helpful about the email list, and will do! :)
Glad you found it helpful.
Hi I’ve been trying to get an ebook on to Lulu. I already have the paperback one. I have entered exactly as per your video. I removed a subtitle to make it easier and at Lulus suggestion removed all extra text on the title and copyright pages. Use cut and paste on to make sure no mistakes. Title on copyright always rejected. I’m stumped. Lulu not ver responsive. Any suggestions please. Thanks
That’s odd. I’ve never run into an issue like this before. If you’re uploading a pdf then perhaps trying a word doc may be less finicky.
Great info, thanks. Are Lulu books sold on Amazon or just on Lulu? Also, if I have a print book on KDP can I sell it as a spiral bound through Lulu?
Great questions. If you select global distribution, your book will be available on amazon as well as other online sites. Yes, you can have your paperback on KDP and your spiral or hardcover on Lulu.
Just remember to link your hardcover/spiral bound to your amazon sales page.
@@KeithWheelerBooks can u pls make a video on how to do that??
Also, for global distribution of lulu..is it a must to buy one proof copy? Is it worth opting for global distribution? Should we opt for it or just the bookstore would do the needful
If you mean a video on linking the books on your Amazon page, all you have to do is send a message to KDP asking for them to link the books.(you’ll need the isbn of each)
I suggest going with global distribution since Lulu doesn’t have a large shopping traffic on their store compared to Amazon.
@@KeithWheelerBooks thank you ...Grateful to you for your prompt reply:)
You’re very welcome
Good video. As for the payee option, what payment option I have to choose? Paypal or direct deposit?
I personally do PayPal.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Ok, but if I want direct deposit, can I choose that option?
Yes
Hey Mr. Wheeler, I know you have published a book or two on Lulu. I wanted to publish my children's book with Lulu. I did the research starting back in early March 2019 and found them to be a reliable source that put out good product based on feedback from people like yourself. I am now in a quandary as to whether this is still a good idea in 2020/2021 because of recent feedback about scams, low quality since they re-vamped their processes this year. Would you consider doing a new video on them if possible to give folks an update as to whether or not they are worthy of our time? Thanks for any advice and consideration you might have.
Excellent idea! I will definitely add that to my to do list. I’ll add it towards the top of my list.
Great video. Very user-friendly. I have 2 questions: If I have a free ISBN for my book on KDP, can I also use the free ISBN on Lulu? And do you have a video that goes into more detail about creating a cover on Lulu?
Great questions!
1. No, the free ISBNs that some platforms provide(like KDP) are platform specific and cannot be used on other platforms. That said, Lulu does offer free ISBNs as well.
2. Unfortunately, I do not currently have a video on creating covers on Lulu. I’ll add that to my todo list.
@@KeithWheelerBooks thanks so much Keith. I appreciate you taking the time to reply. Keep the videos coming 😊
Truly my pleasure!
Hi Keith, we have recently published hardcover children’s books on Lulu. Do you know how long it will take them to show up on Amazon ?
If you chose global distribution, it can take up to a week to show up on Amazon.
If you did not choose global distribution, then your books will only be on Lulu.
@@KeithWheelerBooks yes.we chose gd. I saw on there site that it will take 6-8 weeks ?
It’s possible, but my experience is about a week.
@@KeithWheelerBooks great thanks Keith :)
You’re very welcome!
wooow great n informative vid as always dear Keith. I have a question if you plz: if I published my book on amazon as e-book n paperback and for e-book I've chosen KDP SELECT so still I have the right to publish the paperback on lulu as HARDCOVER? also still I have the right to choose global distribution?
THANKS.
Thank you so much for the kind words. To answer your question, yes. You can absolutely still publish your hardcover on Lulu, even if your ebook is in KDP Select. Also, don't forget to link your hardcover with your ebook and paperback on the Amazon sales page.
@@KeithWheelerBooks
THANKS for response
I know how to link ebook n Paperback but is it the Same way to link HARDCOVER?
N does amazon accept to link three book on the Same page?
Yes they will. Just contact support and tell them what asins to link
Is there a place to download the templates for cover and interior requirements prior to this upload process? How do you embed a font if using Canva and Affinity Publisher? How well known is Lulu to consumers as a marketplace to purchase books compared to Amazon? Are there terms of service to be followed like Amazon? Amazon is frustrating for low content books and seems to have unwritten rules like you cannot use the word calendar for a planner or you cannot use the word planner and journal together in the title and so on. However, you don’t find these rules out unless you are apart of low content FB groups where people share and ask questions. Then you cannot update your titles if they publish your book and then come back at you and say you are not in compliance and your bookshelf becomes cluttered. It is just frustrating that Amazon doesn’t clearly layout what you can and cannot do on their site but rather expect you to read into their terms of service. Amazon seems to be closing accounts left, right and centre these days. I am hoping Lulu is a much more user friendly experience. Can you update titles and subtitles or any other areas in the setup once published? Thank You for this video!
You can google up the templates. Lulu isn’t a marketplace that has a lot of organic traffic, but you can send them to your Lulu link and they shouldn’t have an issue with it.
Yes, there are terms of service for each platform you publish through.
Very nice video from India
Thank you so much for the kind words.
Hi Sir
Sorry to bother you. You didn't not show me the video you have done about how to upload and add your own ISBN on canva. I will appreciate the link to that video.
Thanks 🙌
I don’t have a video on adding an isbn to your cover, but I did comment a video link for how to create a book cover in Canva. You also could simply search it up on TH-cam as well and it should pull up my video.
Good morning Mr. Wheeler, I wanted to ask about the price that Lulu sets if you choose the revenue goal. How do you justify the price of 32.95 for a hardcover children's book. When I tried to set my price for the hardcover that was 14.88 to make, it was 34.72. Who is going to buy a 32 page book for that price from an unknown author if I do global distribution? I can set my own price if I just do sales from Lulu's bookstore only. I'm sure I'm probably missing something and the book may not actually be priced that high, but I need advice from someone who knows what's what? Please advise, thanks.
You can set a discount for those purchasing directly from the website(Lulu.com) but remember when you launch to global distribution, the third party vendors(like Amazon) want their cut. Hence the higher price.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Thank you so much for your response, you solidified what I thought I knew. Be well!
Happy to help! 👍
Thank you!
You’re quite welcome!👍
will lulu promote your books & bring you customers or do you have to promote your own books to bring in sales. also can u publish low content & are yiu able to publish the same books you published on amazon
Lulu doesn’t promote your books. You are able to publish low and no content books on Lulu as well as books you’ve already published in other platforms.
Thanks very much indeed for your this video. Please how do you add your own ISBN to your book cover and the barcode. Thanks
If you download the cover template from Lulu it’ll show you where the barcode should be placed.
I have done that but would like a step by step guide to put it at the back on my own uploaded cover. Thanks 🙏
Maybe I’ll cover that in a future video.
Please how soon. I am published my book on Lulu and has failed Global distribution because they didn't put the ISBN on my book like Amazon and Ingramspark. I heard that if you choose their ISBN they will do it for you but if you have your own you have to do it yourself. I am using my own cover and ISBN.
Thanks 🙌
I’m currently moving my parents over 1100 miles, so I won’t have time to do the video for at least a month.
I have a video on how to create a book cover in Canva. You can use the same method for this, just use the Lulu template and dimensions instead of kdp/createspace. And if hen add in the barcode.
I published with lulu for many years and it was perfect for me. Now they change their site so, that it is impossible to upload word format, but we have upload PDF format. I am not a professional and have problem to do this. So, I need to look for another self publishing company.
Yes they did completely update their site. Have you tried using KDP? They allow for word files.
Thank you so much for this information. I'm unable to publish on KDP because I don't have a tax identification number. Do I need a tax identification number to publish on Lulu?
You’ll need a TIN or SSI or VAT in order to publish, yes. They need to have a way to track your royalties for tax purposes.
Hi Mr. Wheeler, I didn't know where to go to possibly get an answer to this question. I just got my proof copy from Lulu. It had ink drag problems on some of the wording and a few raised areas through the text. I figure this is probably just an issue with this particular copy and may not happen on another copy when I order it. What should someone do when this occurs, is there anything you can do? Is this to be looked at from each individual buyer as to what they should do to get another copy if one doesn't come to them in perfect condition? Now that I have gotten the proof, I need to go back into my account to approve this before it becomes accessible to everyone. Should I do that? Please advise when you have time to spare, thank you.
I’d suggest reaching out to their support first. You want to make sure the issue is resolved and not a systemic issue.
@KeithWheelerBooks I will do just that. I hope they are punctual in responding. Thank you so much for your advice.
You’re very welcome!
Hi Keith, I'm writing a poetry book and Lulu does not allow me to upload my pdf due to font embedded. How do i solve this? My whole book is using Constantia and it's already embedded. I have also went to save option and make sure that what is supposed to be tick is done.
That’s very odd. So you set your save options to embed font. The question is are you saving your file as a pdf or exporting it as a pdf.
I use to export as pdf, but remember, you’re setting the “save” parameters not the “export” so you need to be sure you’re saving as pdf not exporting.
I hope this helps!
@@KeithWheelerBooks Hi Keith, thanks for your reply. I actually saved them in PDF not exporting them. I'm not sure what i should do now.
That’s so odd. I would reach out to support.
Hi i am on KDP at the moment, is it similar on Lulu that u have to find niches too? or that's totaly different platform?
Lulu does have its own store but you can also link your Lulu hardcover with your amazon books sales page
@@KeithWheelerBooks Hello! I am super late but what does this mean? Is this a way for your Amazon customers to get to your Lulu book? I want a way to sell spirals but my customers are on Amazon.
Unfortunately, Amazon does not allow spiral bound books from POD(Print on Demand) platforms. The two best ways to sell spiral bound books from Lulu would be:
1. Set up a sales page on your website and have it link directly to Lulu.(this will give you the highest profit)
2. Try and set up an Amazon Seller account and sell the spirals through there.
@@KeithWheelerBooks Got it! I have over 50 low content journals on Amazon but people are asking for spiral books now. I need a passive way to meet that demand. Looks like Lulu print on demand may be the way to go
I have a doubt. If I publish a paperback book on Amazon, can I publish the same book with the same cover and written material in a hardcover edition on lulu??
You sure can! In fact, if you create the hardcover on Lulu and select World Wide Distribution, it'll also be available on Amazon. You can then, after it's visible on Amazon, reach out to KDP support and have your hardcover sales page linked to your other versions on Amazon.
So I have my ebook, paperback, audiobook and hardcover all linked together on the Amazon Sales page.
@@KeithWheelerBooks does lulu distribute books to countries in South America and the other continents??
If you only pick Lulu distribution then you have limitations to the countries it’s available in, but if you choose worldwide distribution, you’ll have more global distribution.
See here for more info: media.lulu.com/index.php/s/2gjQFRpneJCryyA/download?
@@KeithWheelerBooks But if I published a paperback edition and I want to publish a hardcover edition, I’d have to do it with a different ISBN.
Correct. Each “format” would need its own isbn.
How do you change the book size. I'm having a problem with that?
If you’ve already selected the isbn then you can’t change the book size as the isbn is associated to the original trim size.
May I ask... what are the cons of publishing with Amazon?
The reason I've decided to look elsewhere is that they required me to give my TIN/SIN in order to upload it seems... so I found that really sketchy as a Canadian...
The biggest con when it comes with publishing with Amazon is 2 fold.
1. Overall, the royalties are lower than most other platforms.
2. They occasionally go through and “clean house” meaning they terminate a ton of accounts to get rid of those misusing the platform. I’m all for this, as it’s to ensure only the good quality books are on the market. The issue is that, many times, innocent authors get caught in the crosshairs and get their accounts closed too.
Now, in KDPs defense, I do know that many times they’ll acknowledge their mistake and reinstate the account. But not always.
Regardless of which platform or platforms you choose, remember we’re playing in THEIR sandbox, so they can change the rules or pull the plug at any given time. So be sure to stay up to date on the TOS of the platform.
@@KeithWheelerBooks thanks for taking the time to respond
You’re very welcome! 😊👍
How long does it take to receive your proof copy?
It honestly depends on the shipping method you choose. Mine typically arrive within 1 week.
hi ,all of my ebooks projects is approved for distribution on lulu , thanks for ur help , how long it will take to distribute my ebooks from lulu on other site( global) , how can i find my books there ( kindle , kobo , etc etc )
Depending on the site, it can take between a couple days up to 6 weeks.
I have been researching the best option to publish my photo book all day today and am asking various sources their opinion on the matter. I've been looking at Lulu, KDP, Ingramsparks, Kobo, blurb, and/or running a kickstarter and having the preorders printed at a local print shop.
I'm a first time publisher who has had an art project that a small number of fans have asked I print. I was considering hard back but, could probably get away with a soft cover, about 30 pages, and I don't imagine this book would ever be in bookstores but... what the heck do I know?
Any advice would be much appreciated. You seem to have loads of content that will be keeping me occupied for quite some time as I research.
Excellent question! For photo books, I’d go with either Lulu or IngramSpark. If you want a completely free option, then Lulu is your best option. IngramSpark charges a setup fee of $49 as well as $25 every time you make changes. Lulu is completely free. Just be sure to select their photo book option. This prints on thicker paper, so there’s no color bleed.
Best of luck!
@@KeithWheelerBooks First off; thank you for your response. It's greatly appreciated.
After another day of weighing the pros and cons, I'm nearly convinced that I'll be going with Lulu, (and doing a kickstarter to promote where I can and get pre-orders in).
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have your other videos to binge. (Great content. Keep it up!)
Do we have to pay to upload books? Do we have to pay for ads?
No there’s no fee on Lulu for uploads. Ads do cost money. But I don’t believe there are any native ads to run within Lulu.
Does the image/text inside the margins get cut off?
It’s possible, so you never want text outside the margin as well as any critical parts of your illustrations.
Just published my first book with Lulu, it went live yesterday. Can't say that my experience with Lulu was all that stellar. Their lethargic response time, both for support and proof delivery was exacerbating, annoying, and wholly unacceptable in my opinion. Seriously, they can only manage 1 email a day? And more than week from order to delivery, even with paid expedited delivery? I had trouble with their ISBN/Barcode being blurry, which they apparently couldn't fix. Rather that appearing printed it looked like a low resolution image. In the end I said oh well because I didn't want to stretch out the release weeks longer. Was I really expecting too much? I'll probably try a different publisher for my next effort. Live and learn I suppose.
I’m so sorry to hear about all of your problems, though I’m excited to hear that you published your first book.
Congratulations and I hope things go smoother for you in the future!
Do you have to pay like premium and stuff on this app? As other things I’ve looked on you have to pay extra for like “premium”?
No Lulu is a pod platform like KDP. You only pay for books you order. Other than that, they just get paid when you sell books.
As of right now, that lulu link isn't working. Your site is, but that subdomain short cut is not. I tried a different word instead of "lulu" and your WP site gave a 404 error, but not lulu. It tries to go somewhere, and then says site cannot be reached. So, I fear you either typed/pasted the affiliate link wrong, or the affiliate program is dead, or some other reason.
Yeah I have to remove that link from the description. Lulu is no longer allowing that link
Thank you so much for the video. I accidently approved my proof before receiving it....how do I go back and change it from global distrubution to private until I review the proof???? I was not ready for it to be out....
Go to your dashboard, click on the three dots next to the paperback and select unpublish.
Keith Wheeler Books thanks for responding, unfortunately I could not locate that option..., do you have a video that could help?
@@WillieDiggsTV My apologies. I was answering in regards to KDP, I missed the part that you were responding on the Lulu video.
In Lulu, go to My Projects, next to your book there will be a blue box that says "retire". Select retire and then after you receive your proof, if there are revisions that need to be made, you can click "revise". If everything looks good just select "restore".
I hope this helps.
I have published several times with LULU...now I am stalled because I am unable to select book size, paper, etc. I only want to print up a sample copy. I'm not looking to sell right now. I want a paperback book in my hands and the new system is just so stubborn. I miss the old way of publishing. What do I do now?
You can select for private use and then upload your interior.
@@KeithWheelerBooks It will not allow me to do this step.
That’s odd. Have you reached out to Lulu support it see if there is a recent known issue?
Penni, are you facing embedding and flattening issues?
Did I will publishing my book for free? Pls answer
Yes it’s free to publish through Lulu.
Please where can I locate the video
Thanks 🙏
How to Create a Canva Book Cover
th-cam.com/video/ZHW4fgsO1os/w-d-xo.html
can i type up the book on google docs if not what other software do i use to type it up and im confused on copyright and all that copyright info i see on the first pages on books what do i do about that
Yes, you can absolutely use Google docs for writing your book. As for the copyright page, what would you like to know? Perhaps I’ll do a video on it.
@@KeithWheelerBooks oh great thanks
You’re very welcome.
I do have a Lulu/Amazon question. Could I do the ebook on Kindle and the print book on Lulu?
Absolutely!
@@KeithWheelerBooks Thank you!
You’re quite welcome. Glad I could help!