Publish Setup · Lulu Publishing · 3 of 6
Lulu Interior, Cover & Physical Proof
What to do and why it matters
Prepare files for your exact Lulu project, rather than assuming a KDP or IngramSpark PDF will transfer unchanged. Paper, binding, page count, bleed, and cover structure affect the requirements. Keep an editable source file and save a dated copy of each exported PDF.
Prepare the interior
- Set the finished size. Choose the intended trim size and follow the Lulu template for PDF page dimensions, bleed, safety areas, and binding clearance. For coil books, keep important content clear of the punched edge.
- Export one PDF of individual pages. Include all intended inside content and blank pages in reading order. Do not export paired reader spreads. The first interior PDF page prints on the right, so inspect facing-page sequences.
- Check typography and images. Embed permitted fonts; inspect image resolution at its final printed size. Lulu recommends 300 PPI for interior images. Flatten transparency and follow the current export guide. Do not add crop marks or password protection.
- Check color deliberately. Lulu supports sRGB and CMYK. Use appropriate export settings for your source and check a printed sample; screen brightness cannot predict printed color. A color selection affects the project’s printing cost, even if few pages contain color.
- Review publication content. Check titles, credits, photo permissions, recipe measurements, headings, page numbers, and the table of contents. Distribution books also require the specified title/copyright information and consistent ISBN metadata.
Prepare the cover
- Upload the interior and confirm the chosen specifications first. Download the custom cover template generated for that exact project.
- Use the template’s actual panel arrangement. Paperback, casewrap, dust jacket, coil, and magazine covers do not all have the same structure. Do not invent a spine or reuse dimensions from another binding.
- Keep titles, author names, logos, and important images within the marked safe areas. Remove template guides from the final exported artwork.
- Check the magazine exception: inside-front and inside-back cover printing requires the magazine-specific two-page cover PDF. Use the separate magazine file lesson for that option.
- If interior page count, paper, binding, or size changes, obtain the matching template again and recheck the cover before final approval.
Preview, then order a physical copy
Inspect Lulu’s digital preview page by page, with trim and fold guides visible. Then order a physical proof/test copy and wait for it before approving wider distribution or announcing the issue. Check small type, image sharpness, color, paper show-through, binding clearance, cover alignment, and unwanted blank pages. Write down corrections, fix the source files, and replace the PDFs. Global Distribution revisions to the cover or interior require a new purchased and approved proof according to Lulu’s current process.
Understand the terms
Click to expand for more information.
Single-page layout
This means one publication page per PDF page, not that your entire interior should contain only one page.
Bleed versus a safe margin
Bleed extends background art beyond the intended cut edge. A safe margin keeps essential content away from cutting, folds, and binding. Both must follow the chosen Lulu template.
A proof is a production check
A proof shows how the files print. It is still your responsibility to check editing, rights, accuracy, and usability. A file passing upload validation is not a guarantee that the book is correct.
Official help and current specifications
PDF creation settings ↗ · Cover files and templates ↗ · Lulu project setup ↗ · Mandatory distribution requirements ↗
Completion checklist
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Selections save on this device only. They are not synced or backed up.
Checked October 30, 2026 against linked Lulu guidance. Screens, prices, and eligibility can change. Lulu’s current project requirements govern your edition.