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Trade Paperback Sizes & Graphic Novel Industry Standards

In the world of comics, trade paperbacks refer to collections of stories reprinted in a new format. Oftentimes, they encompass a single story arc adapted from an original comic book. While you’re free to apply printing options to your trade paperback project as you see fit, there are some standards many publishers choose to follow. Even though the practice of collecting comics into trade paperbacks and graphic novels is still fairly new, the widely-recognized formatting standards for trade paperbacks have changed a bit since it began.

Typically, the size of the trade paperback is designed to match the original comic collected, but sometimes smaller digest-size editions are also printed. Additionally, while older collections were printed on uncoated paper, newer volumes often feature a gloss coating.

Here at PrintNinja, we know printing trade paperbacks and graphic novels demands the utmost level of precision to create a product you’re fully satisfied with. That’s why we include so many different choices for customization. Whether you prefer gloss or matte covers, have a specific size preference, or would like to tailor your trade paperback in another way, we’re here to make your project come to life exactly as you envision it.

However, if you’re looking to emulate the most common specifications, or if you want some guidance on where to start, here are two industry standards for your consideration:

Modern Trade Paperbacks Gloss Coating Specifications Based on Industry Standards

Modern Trade Paperbacks & Graphic Novels

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We have pre-populated our trade paperback pricing calculator with these industry standards so quoting is a breeze. You can also customize just about anything, from size to paperweight, and so much more.

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Vintage Trade Paperbacks Uncoated Specifications Based on Industry Standards

Traditional Trade Paperbacks

Looking for something a little more old school? Traditional trade paperbacks tend to be a slightly larger size than modern trade paperbacks, and use uncoated paper.

Ready to learn more about common industry standards for your project? Check out the visual guide below!

Ready to get started?

We have pre-populated our traditional trade paperback pricing calculator with these industry standards so quoting is a breeze. You can also customize just about anything, from size to paperweight, and so much more.

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