Warning: CreateSpace expand use of third-party printers with dire results

[M.A.]

A recent experience with a book order from CreateSpace revealed another problem with their use of third-party printers and consequent poor quality control. I wrote a blog post complete with a scan of a book page so you can see the issue:

http://mademers.com/globalindieauthor...

Read and take heed!

[T.L.]

Thank you for the warning. :)

[Wayne]

And therein lies the reason I don't go for print-on-demand services, because they swap around. If I ever go for print — which I have no plans to — I'd source the printer directly.

I have a background in print, so I've seen the tragedies and travesties first hand, and using poor quality printers is the cheapest way to get your hands on a book of horror!

[Nicolas]

Wow. Good to know. I am in the process of getting everything set up with createspace, but that's definitely food for thought.

[Leigh]

I've had random cover issues in which the cuts were either crooked or glued incorrectly, but for the most part, I've been very happy with CreateSpace. I've never had a problem with the interior. I had no idea they used third-party printers.

[A.L.]

Thanks, I am not sure whether to continue with Lulu as I have my first book there or to go to CS. I know I get better royalties from CS as the Amazon mark up isn't there but now I a not so sure. Thanks for sharing.

[[deleted user]]

Thanks for the info. I just published with Create Space and I think my cover and text print came out really well.

[Randy]

I pay a very good and reasonable formatter to do both the interior and exterior and so far the five books I have in hand are fine. We had problem with the back cover text on one book, but have made a change and hope that will cure it But, overall, I've been very pleased with Createspace. Would love to have more sales, but that's not on their shoulders.

[Ken]

I just received the proof copies of both of my books and I am really pleased with the quality. Sorry the OP had problems but they appear to be resolved. No one does everything perfect every time so I think what occurred was an aberration rather than something systemic.

[Jennings]

We haven't had any problems with CS so far. My husband got 300 copies of his, and they're great, and I've gotten a hundred or so of 2 books and they're fine. The only problem I've had is some color differences on the cover of Undaunted Love, but unless you see a correctly colored book and a slightly lighter one side by side it's not obvious. I do use a professional cover designer and formatter - I couldn't do it myself!