In the past couple of months I've had several people ask if I planned to release an ebook version of Freeform Peyote Beading. Originally I had resisted for two reasons. One, the interior PDF for the print version, at 100.6MB, is far too large for easy download. Recently it occurred to me that I could go back and resize all of the images for the web to 72dpi instead of 300. Between that and the formatting differences between ePub and PDF, (I think I'll have to manually pull everything out off InDesign) I could reduce the file size considerably, so that's less of a concern.
My larger question is do people purchase books of this nature in a digital format? I've always preferred the hardcopy myself for craft books. Last month I purchased my first digital craft book 'The Complete Photo Guide to Jewelry Making' so I could see how someone else handled the transition. They seem to include only one or two photos per page. I really ought to track down a print copy so I can compare the two versions.
- Have you purchased ebook versions of any craft books (and if you haven't, would you consider it)?
- What do you expect from a digital book of this nature?
- Do you have a favorite craft ebook? What in particular do you love about it?
- What Ebook readers do you use most often? Why do you prefer that reader/format?
- Any other suggestions, advice or things I should consider?
Thanks in advance! And I will definitely let you know what I decide.
I do like online resources for instruction, which is not exactly the same thing, but somewhat comparable. I use a lot of online food stuff and crochet patterns. Often I can print out the pages I want to take with me for specific projects; is this an option? If it's not an option to print out a limited number of pages, I'm not sure how useful it would be. I agree, a hard copy is good for no-mess, no-fuss crafting. So my response is a resounding MAYBE on the purchase.
ReplyDeleteBeing able to enlarge the pictures would be very helpful. Would the reduced file size be enough to show your work at its best? With your work, it would be a shame to leave out pictures of the projects. I just looked at your book on Amazon, and the pictures and diagrams are not only massively helpful, they're beautiful.
I use Overdrive Media on a converted-to-Android NookColor, because that's what the libraries use. I think it's usually the Epub format.
My brain is scattered this morning, Karen--hope this is at least SOME help.
I love books- paper and hardback. I do not have an e-reader.
ReplyDeleteI save e-patterns. I even buy a few e-patterns. If I had more money (and maybe more time) I would likely buy more e-patterns.
I do not think that I am at all representative.
I don't have an e-reader, but I do love reading PDF files on my computer. I downloaded a few chapters of Cyndi Lavin's bead embroidery book, and one thing I loved was that I had the option to choose which chapters I wanted to buy.
ReplyDeleteI'd definitely be interested in an electronic version, but I also love my paper books. :)
BrooklynDriver - thanks for your in depth response! Reducing image file sizes would mean that the pictures would look large and lovely on your computer screen, but would print at a much lower resolution. Speaking of printing; when you print pages of crochet patterns do you remember whether they are in epub or pdf format?
ReplyDeleteKJ - pricing is definitely one of the next issues with e-formats!
Sarah - thanks for the recommendation! I will go look at her book. Buying individual chapters - that's an interesting idea.
I would have already purchased your book by now if it was available in pdf format for download. I like the instant gratification of downloads and do not like waiting for snail mail. I also like being able to magnify text and zoom in on details of pictures in ebooks. Most publishers charge the same price for the book whether it is paper or electronic. I would be OK with that. The ebook needs to be exactly the same as the printed version though, nothing should be left out to make one regret choosing the download version. Also, an ebook is forever as long as there is a backup. Paper books can get damaged or destroyed just by spilling your drink on it.
ReplyDeleteVicki