With all of the mental health and learning benefits that coloring provides, an increasing amount of people are opening coloring books during their downtime. One question many ask regarding coloring is, “Are coloring books copyrighted?”
Yes, most coloring books are copyrighted before you purchase the coloring book. Most coloring book publishers have the designs in the book copyrighted after the designers have completed each of the designs. Once you purchase the coloring book, you are free to do what you choose with the physical copy of the book (like coloring the designs). However, you do need to be aware of the things you can not legally do with your coloring books.
Copyright Laws and Protection
The answer to whether or not you need to copyright your coloring book depends on the country you’re in. Generally speaking, copyright protection is available for any “original work of authorship” which is fixed in a tangible medium. If your coloring book qualifies as “original work of authorship” then you should seek copyright protection. Copyright protection helps prevent people from stealing and selling your work without your permission.
In the United States, copyright protection is available for original works, including coloring books. To file for copyright protection in the US, you must fill out an application with the US Copyright Office, and you must submit the appropriate fee. You will also need to provide proof that your coloring book is an original work.
If you want legal protection for your book, you need a legal copyright. By officially copyrighting your work, you’re ensuring you can take legal action should someone try to copy it. Since it’s easy to do and inexpensive, it is well worth the effort, particularly if you plan on selling your book.
Market Considerations for Coloring Books
The prices for a coloring book that will be enjoyed by an adult can range from as little as $1.00 to well over $1000.00. However, if you are looking for a coloring book that will have good teeth and a variety of designs, you can probably find one in the $25.00 range.
Typically, a coloring book is anywhere from 16 to 60 pages, with black-and-white interior line art.
Adult coloring books will likely continue to make money, but they are no longer making enough money to single-handedly carry publishing through a slump. The highest point of the fad appears to be well and truly over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does it cost to self-publish a coloring book?
A: The costs of self-publishing a coloring book can vary depending on the quality of paper, printing, and binding. However, it is generally cheaper than traditional publishing.
Q: Can I sell my coloring book on Amazon?
A: Yes, you can sell your coloring book on Amazon by using their self-publishing platform, Kindle Direct Publishing.
Q: Do I need to copyright my coloring book?
A: No, your coloring book is automatically copyrighted once it is published. However, you can register your copyright for added protection.
Can I make a coloring book and sell it? Yes, you can make a coloring book and sell it on platforms like Amazon, Etsy, or your own website. The most successful sellers can make over $10,000 a month.
Spend time researching bestselling coloring books on Amazon to see what’s popular. Pay attention to customer reviews. Market research helps you figure out what’s already out there so you can find your niche.
Use Amazon KDP to upload your book for print-on-demand so you don’t have to print it yourself. KDP provides the tools you need to publish and sell on Amazon.
You don’t necessarily need artistic skills if you use design software or hire a freelance artist. But know how to create a book that appeals to your target audience.
Creating an effective, visually appealing layout is crucial for selling your coloring book. Determine the book size and format, choose your art style, organize your pages, etc.
Calculating profit requires finding the difference between production costs and sales price. Find a unique niche to make your book more profitable.
Research keywords related to coloring books to optimize listings. Look for high-volume, low-difficulty terms. This helps in marketing.
Illustrating the pages is the hardest part. Or you can buy pre-made illustrations and just compile a book.
Etsy sellers make passive income selling digital coloring pages for around $1 each on average.
You can copyright your coloring book automatically when published, or register the copyright for added protection.