
We all get stuck!
We understand that self-publishing comes with many questions and we’re here to help! Whether you’re curious about fixed-layout book templates, formatting for Amazon KDP and IngramSpark or the self-publishing process, our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page provides clear answers to guide you. From design tips to ISBN requirements, we cover the essentials to make your publishing journey smoother.
FaQ: Do you have a suggestion?
If you don’t see your question here, we’d love to hear from you! If you have a topic suggestion for this FAQ page, feel free to contact us and we’ll consider adding it! We’re always updating our resources to better serve authors like you.
FAQ
Using Our Templates in Canva
How do I edit your templates in Canva?
Simply click the template link provided after purchase and it will open directly in your Canva account. From there, you can replace text, change fonts, adjust colours and add your own images.
Do I need Canva Pro to use your templates?
All the templates work with the free version of Canva, however a few of the templates have Canva Pro elements which were used to create realistic looking book examples. These Pro elements can easily be swapped out with Canva’s extensive free elements library or replaced by your own images and illustrations. If specific elements require Canva Pro, we’ll make that clear in the product description.
Can I change the fonts in your templates?
Yes, you can change fonts to match your branding or book style. Canva offers a wide selection of free fonts, or you can upload your own with Canva Pro.
Can I customise the colours in the template?
Absolutely. You can adjust all colours in Canva to suit your branding or personal preference.
Can I upload my own images or illustrations into
the template?
Yes, Canva makes it easy to upload and drop in your own artwork, photos or logos.
Will your templates keep the correct size for book publishing?
Yes. Each template is created with standard publishing sizes in mind (for example 6” x 9”) and we’ve also included the bleed allowance to ensure your final trim size will be correct and print ready.
How do I make sure my file has bleed and margins
set correctly?
Our templates are designed with standard publishing bleed and margin settings. Please check your preferred publishing platform’s requirements for bleed and margins.
Can I resize a Canva template if I want a different book size?
Yes, this can be done manually using the free version but you’ll need Canva Pro to use the ‘resize’ tool. Alternatively, we can adjust the size for you as part of an extra service.
Do your templates include front and back covers?
We don’t include a full print-ready cover file, as the final spine width depends on the number of pages in your finished book. What we do provide are simple sample covers, designed to give you a clear idea of size, proportion and layout. If you’d like a professional, fully customised cover created to your exact specifications, we do offer a bespoke cover design service.
Can I add extra pages to a book interior template?
Yes, you can duplicate, mix and match and reorder pages in Canva to fit the length of your book’s manuscript.
What You Get When You Purchase?
What’s included when I buy a template?
You’ll receive a Canva link to the template, plus instructions on editing and exporting your design. You’ll also receive helpful bonus content relevant to your purchase.
Do your templates include commercial rights?
Yes. You can use the finished, edited files with your own content for commercial publishing on platforms such as Amazon KDP or IngramSpark with no restrictions or limits. However, please note that our templates cannot be repackaged, bundled or resold as templates.
Can I reuse the same template for multiple books?
Yes, once purchased, you can use the template for as many of your own projects as you like.
Will my template look exactly like the example shown?
This depends on your preferences. If you replace the placeholder text and images keeping to the same length (text) and dimensions (images), then your layout will look very similar. You will find that you will have to make small adjustments here and there to make your content fit the layout. Canva allows you to customise everything in the layout to make it unique to your book. Tip! Always duplicate a page if changing the bones of a page’s layout, that way you won’t lose anything, just remember to remove any surplus pages (eg. duplicated) before saving your PDF!
Do I get support after purchase?
Of course! if you run into issues with your template, please don’t hesitate to get in touch for help.
Do your templates come with fonts and graphics included?
All fonts and graphics used in the templates are either available for free (within Canva) or require Canva Pro. This said, Canva offers a vast number of free fonts and graphics from which you can choose to use. Canva Pro is required if you wish to upload your own fonts.
What file formats can I export my finished design in?
Canva allows you to download your manuscript in PDF (print ready), which is required for most publishing platforms. You can also download as PNG and JPG formats.
Can I use your templates for client projects.
Yes, you can use your templates for client projects.
Do you offer refunds on templates?
Due to the digital nature of our products, we’re unable to offer refunds unless there is a technical issue with the template itself. All templates are thoroughly tested before release to ensure they open and function correctly in Canva.
Will my purchase include instructions?
Yes, we include instructions on how to use your template including helpful links to video content. You may also find the content in this blog post helpful: Self Publishing Made Easy
Our Services
What design services do you offer besides
templates?
We offer custom book cover design, book interior design, branding packages, and self-publishing support.
Can you design my entire book from scratch?
Yes, we can work with your manuscript to create a complete, professional layout and cover.
Do you format books for Amazon KDP?
Yes, we specialise in preparing books to meet KDP’s publishing requirements.
Do you format books for IngramSpark?
Yes, we can create files tailored specifically for IngramSpark’s print and distribution guidelines.
Can you design both eBooks and print books?
Yes, we can create layouts optimised for Kindle, ePub and print-on-demand.
Do you offer marketing design too?
Yes, we can design social media graphics, author brand kits and marketing materials.
How long does a custom design service take?
Timeframes vary depending on the project but most cover designs take 1–2 weeks and interiors 2–4 weeks (depending on size of manuscript and level of design details required).
Can I request revisions on my custom design?
Yes, all services include rounds of revisions so you’re completely happy with the result.
Will my book look professional if I only use a template?
Absolutely. Every template we create is professionally designed to meet publishing standards, ensuring a polished and high-quality finish. Even if two authors begin with the same template, their final books will look entirely unique and original once customised with their own content, colours and style.
Can you help me upload my book to KDP or IngramSpark?
Yes, we can guide you through the upload process or even take care of it on your behalf. Simply get in touch and let us know which part of the process you’re finding difficult and we’ll be happy to help.
KDP and IngramSpark
What’s the difference between Amazon KDP and IngramSpark?
KDP is Amazon’s own self-publishing platform with wide Amazon distribution, while IngramSpark offers global distribution to bookstores and libraries.
Can I publish on both KDP and IngramSpark?
Yes, many authors use both platforms to maximise reach.
Do I need my own ISBN?
In short, yes. KDP offers free ISBNs but IngramSpark requires you to provide your own. We recommend owning your ISBN if you want full publishing control.
How do I set the right trim size for my book?
All our templates include bleed in the most popular sizes, so you don’t have to worry. We would recommend checking with your preferred publishing platform for its size guide.
What file format should I upload to KDP or IngramSpark?
Both platforms require a print-ready PDF with embedded fonts and bleed. When exporting your finished manuscript, using our template, from Canva, simply select the “PDF” option. This will automatically embed your fonts and include bleed.
How do I set my book’s price?
How do I set the right price for my book on Amazon KDP?
You set your own price when uploading your book. We recommend researching similar titles in your genre and format to find a competitive range. Amazon KDP also provides pricing options based on paper type and finish, along with clear details of your profit per book.
How do I set the right price for my book on IngramSpark?
You control your book’s price on IngramSpark by setting both the retail price and the wholesale discount (usually 55%). We recommend researching comparable titles to find a price point readers expect in your genre. IngramSpark also shows you the printing cost, so you can calculate your royalties before publishing.
Do I keep all rights to my book?
Yes, self-publishing means you retain full ownership of your content and rights.
How much royalty will I earn on KDP?
Typically 60% of list price for paperbacks sold on Amazon, minus printing costs; eBooks are 35% or 70% depending on pricing.
How much royalty will I earn on IngramSpark?
IngramSpark allows you to set your wholesale discount, usually 55%. You then earn the list price minus wholesale discount and print costs.
Can I order author copies of my book?
Yes, both KDP and IngramSpark let you buy copies at print cost.
Self-Publishing and General Publishing
What’s the main difference between self-publishing and traditional publishing?
In self-publishing, you retain control, rights and higher royalties but handle the costs. Traditional publishing involves a publisher covering costs but with less control and lower royalties.
Do I need an editor if I’m self-publishing?
No, you can edit a book yourself, there are numerous videos online showing how to edit professionally. However manuscript editing is highly skilled and we would always recommend a professional edit to ensure a high quality, polished manuscript.
Do I need to copyright my book?
Copyright is automatic in most countries when you create original work but registering may give added protection.
Should I use a pen name?
That’s entirely up to you. Pen names are common for privacy or branding reasons.
How do I market my self-published book?
Marketing usually involves social media, building an email list, running ads and engaging with readers. We have an excellent post regarding social media marketing: Social Media Marketing
What’s a book imprint?
An imprint is the publishing brand name under which your book is released. You can create your own imprint when self-publishing eg., one well-known example is Penguin Classics, which is an imprint of Penguin Random House. An imprint is essentially a publishing “brand within a brand” and Penguin Classics is famous for publishing high-quality editions of classic literature under its own name, while still being part of the larger Penguin Random House group.
Do bookstores stock self-published books?
It’s possible, but bookstores usually order through distributors like Ingram. Strong marketing and professional design help.
What are print-on-demand books?
Print-on-demand means books are only printed when ordered so there’s no need to keep stock. The downside is that your book could take a week or so before being dispatched, this can be a turn-off for some buyers.
Can I publish both an eBook and a paperback?
Yes, many authors release both formats to reach more readers and don’t forget hardbacks too!
Can Wilsonian Press help me beyond design?
Not at the moment. Our focus is on book design and formatting, though we do provide cohesive collections of social media templates to support your own self-marketing. We are planning to launch a dedicated marketing department in the near future so make sure you subscribe to our mailing list to be the first to hear when it goes live.

Check out our templates
Explore our Canva templates, crafted as part of our self-publishing book design services to make publishing simple and professional. Perfect for Amazon KDP, IngramSpark and beyond, each template is easy to customise, ensuring your book looks polished and unique. Browse the collection today and take the stress out of self-publishing.


