What Is Cover Board and How Is It Different From a Self Cover?

When setting up certain Bookvault binding types, you may be given the choice between Cover Board and Self Cover.

The main difference is the paper used for the cover.

What is Cover Board?

Cover Board uses Bookvault's standard 250gsm cover stock, giving your book a thicker and sturdier cover than the interior pages.

Cover Board is available with:

• Perfect Bound
• Saddle Stitch
• Wire-O Bound
• Spiral Bound

The 250gsm Cover Board can also be printed on both sides.

What is a Self Cover?

A Self Cover uses the same paper stock as the interior of your book.

For example, if your interior is printed on 80gsm paper, the cover will also use that paper when Self Cover is selected.

This creates a lighter cover and can work particularly well for products such as booklets, magazines and pamphlets.

What's the difference between Cover Board and Self Cover?

Cover Board: Uses Bookvault's thicker 250gsm cover stock.

Self Cover: Uses the same paper stock as the book's interior.

If you want a sturdier, more traditional cover, Cover Board is the better option. If you want the cover to use the same stock as the pages, choose Self Cover.

Where do I choose my cover stock?

When creating your book or using the Bookvault Quote Tool, you'll be shown the cover options available for the binding and specifications you've selected.

The available options can vary depending on your chosen binding.