Start a book and document formatting service

Self-publishing authors, students, academics, small publishers, coaches and organisations producing long documents.

A fixed package price per book or document, often based on page count, with add-ons for cover layout, e-book conversion or index formatting.

• Layout software such as InDesign, Affinity Publisher or Vellum-style tools
• Knowledge of print-on-demand and e-book file requirements
• Attention to detail
• Reliable deadlines

• Check you are not responsible for the content, and make clear in your terms that the client owns the copyright
• Check licences for fonts and images used in books that will be sold
• Consider professional indemnity insurance
• Platform file requirements change, so check current guidelines before delivering files
• Take a deposit on larger projects to protect against non-payment

Startup costs are typically around £300 to £1,500, depending on the layout software you choose and any equipment you need. Check licences for fonts and images used in books that will be sold.

Check you are not responsible for the content, and make clear in your terms that the client owns the copyright. Consider professional indemnity insurance, check current platform file guidelines before delivering, and take a deposit on larger projects.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £300 to £2,500, depending on how many projects you take and their size. The estimate starts at about 6 hours a week, with reliable deadlines important.