Book Publishing Trends 2026 | Print & Production Insights
Book Publishing Trends 2026: Key Print & Production Insights
Top Book Publishing Trends to Watch in 2026
Working with publishers, brands, and creatives across international markets means we often get to see book publishing trends as they emerge.
Because of Imago Group’s unique position sitting between clients and a global network of print partners, we’re well placed to spot patterns in materials, finishes, and product trends. From early-stage concepts to final production, we get a clear view of what’s gaining traction, and what’s starting to fade.
In this blog, we’re sharing what we see as the key book printing trends of 2026:
1. Sticker books are back (and not just for kids!)
Sticker books have long been a staple of children’s publishing and right now they are more popular than ever. But it’s not just the kids getting stuck in – alongside colouring, the sticker book format first started to gain traction for adults back in 2016. Ten years on we’re seeing a genuine revival of sticker books as a mindful and relaxing crafting activity for adults. Often inspired by contemporary art, Victorian-era botanical prints and ephemera, beautifully curated sticker book collections are finding a whole new lease of life for grown-ups who want a creative and calming experience.
Then there’s the sticker book stress busters – ‘sticker by number’ and ‘sticker mosaics’ – intricate and absorbing projects, requiring the dexterity and patience of accomplished puzzlers.
The appeal is obvious: they offer a ‘screen-free’ activity, they are quietly therapeutic and highly addictive!
Also interesting to note is that FSC™-certified sticker papers, are being requested, which shows how environmental responsibility is becoming a key part of the conversation from the very start of a project.
What’s sticky:
- Exquisitely detailed vintage and art collections featuring 500 + stickers in hardback format
- Geometric ‘sticker by number’ and mosaic formats
- More awareness around material choices
Thinking about creating a sticker book? Choosing the right materials makes all the difference,we can guide you through the options.
Here at Imago our shelves are graced with beautiful books with exquisite finishes and decorative edging, standout slipcases and clamshells – all aspects that help transform the humble book into a real treasure. There’s something new afoot though, once the preserve of niche publishers and specialist presses, we’re now seeing more mainstream publishers pushing the boundaries to produce visually stunning and tactile keepsake editions.
From children’s classics and literary collections to deluxe art and music books, special editions are in high demand. It makes sense, in a world dominated by screens and scrolling, a beautifully crafted, collector’s edition feels so permanent and meaningful.
What makes a Collector’s edition truly special
- Hand numbering and signed tip ins that emphasise the scarcity and exclusivity
- Bonus artefacts and ephemera that appeal to the collector
- High production values, such as real cloth slipcases and presentation clamshells
- Multiple layers of foil and embossed finishes adding tactility
- Decorative edges – printed, sprayed, gilded
Looking in producing a special edition? Take a look at some of the inspiring projects that we have worked on.
3. Board Games
Another emerging book publishing trend is the morphing between books and board games. We’re seeing more Role Playing Game projects that dissolve the line between book reader and game player. There are books designed to be used in conjunction with online and physical games, Game Master kits supplied with customised dice and other components, or deluxe Box Sets with game screens, maps and booklets. It’s all part of that same shift towards interaction and a sensory experience.
It’s a dynamic and vibrant scene spanning the US and Europe, with France and the UK driving the European market. The underlying business model is genius, built primarily around crowdfunding campaigns, enabling publishers to secure their audience and funds they need before they start production.
Ready to bring your book and game project to life? Explore our board game and toy manufacturing capabilities to see how we can help you create an immersive, gaming experience.
Branded or licensed content
Educational Kits
Story-driven games
4. Printed Edges
Whether printed, sprayed, or stencilled – edge decoration remains one of the most popular book publishing trends. As printers invest in state-of-the-art equipment, mass production has become more viable across different sectors. Yet despite the wider availability, edge printing is still a prestige treatment, appealing to collectors who delight in the tactile beauty of the physical book.
Why Printed edges remain popular
- More accessible but still special
- Sits well alongside other high end finishes
- Less of a “novelty,” more of a permanent premium option
Interested in adding edge decoration to your next project? Discover our full range of book edge finishing options and find the perfect premium touch for your publication.
5. Digital Foiling
Digital foiling represents a significant technical shift in the world of print finishing and it’s growing in popularity in 2026.
Using technologies like Scodix and MGI, it is possible to completely bypass the costly metal dies that we associate with traditional hot foil stamping. Without dies, set-up is quicker and cheaper and shorter print runs are possible. It is also more sustainable – using less energy, involving fewer chemical processes and reducing set-up waste.
Digital foiling delivers a tactile 3d effect, combining a polymer varnish with foil in one process. Some systems have colour limitations and there could be limits on foiling small text – but with the right design, this is a game changer!
If you’re considering foiling for your next project, but you’re not sure which technique is best for your project, read more in our blog
So, what should you take from the 2026 Book Publishing Trends?
A lot of these book printing trends point in the same direction.
People want:
- More interaction
- More tactile experiences
- More considered, higher-quality products
And importantly, they’re willing to invest in it, if it adds value.
That’s where having the right print partner really makes a difference, someone who can guide you through options, not just execute a spec.
FAQs: Book Publishing Trends 2026
What are the main book publishing trends in 2026?
In 2026, publishing is moving further towards physical, experience-led products. We’re seeing strong demand for interactive formats like sticker books, continued interest in premium special editions, and growing experimentation with hybrid products that sit between books and games. At the same time, new print technologies like digital foiling are making shorter, more customised runs easier and more cost-effective.
What’s the most popular premium finish?
Foiling is still right up there, especially with the rise of digital foiling.
When to use digital foiling instead of traditional foiling?
Digital foiling is ideal when you need speed, flexibility, or smaller production runs. It allows for easier design changes and quicker turnaround times. Traditional foiling is still a strong choice for larger volumes where consistency and cost per unit are key. Many projects actually use both methods depending on the stage of development.
How is sustainability affecting book production trends?
Sustainability is now a standard part of production conversations rather than an optional extra. Publishers are increasingly looking at responsibly sourced papers, recyclable components, and smarter print planning to reduce waste. Even interactive products like sticker books are being designed with more environmentally conscious materials from the start.
What should publishers consider before starting a print project in 2026?
The most important thing is to think about the reader experience first — how the book should feel, not just how it should look. From there, decisions around format, finishes, and production method become much clearer. Working closely with a print partner early in the process also helps avoid unnecessary costs and ensures the final product matches the original vision.
Let’s talk about your next project
If you’re exploring any of these ideas, a sticker book, a premium edition, or something a bit different, we’d be happy to help.
At Imago Group, we work with a global network of print partners to bring projects to life, from concept through to production.
👉 Get in touch with the team to start the conversation.
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