Becoming a Search Press Author

Search Press is one of the world’s leading publishers of practical art and craft books, working with creative experts across a wide range of disciplines. From drawing, painting and textiles to papercraft, jewellery making and more, our books are known for their clarity, quality and inspirational design.

We’re always keen to discover new voices, fresh ideas and distinctive creative approaches. Whether you’re an experienced author, a professional maker, or a passionate specialist with something unique to share, we aim to make the publishing journey as supportive, collaborative and rewarding as possible.

Why Write a Book with Search Press?

Writing a book can be an incredibly rewarding experience. For some, it’s about seeing their name on the cover of a beautifully produced publication. For others, it’s about sharing skills, inspiring creativity, and reaching a wider audience.A Search Press book can also help to:

• Build your professional profile

• Promote your workshops, classes or online presence

• Create new opportunities for demonstrations, exhibitions and future publications

• Establish you as an authority in your field

We work closely with our authors at every stage to ensure their ideas are brought to life with the quality and care Search Press is known for.

What We’re Looking For

Search Press specialises in highly illustrated, practical art and craft books. Our titles are designed to be accessible, informative and visually engaging, helping readers to learn new skills or develop existing ones with confidence.We’re particularly interested in proposals that:

• Offer a clear focus and strong concept

• Are well suited to visual, step‑by‑step presentation

• Have a clearly defined audience

• Bring something fresh to an established subject, or explore a more specialist technique

Your work should be of a high enough standard for print publication, and you should be comfortable explaining your techniques clearly and thoughtfully.

What We Expect from Our Authors

When you’re commissioned to write a Search Press book, you become part of our publishing team. In return, we ask for professionalism, commitment and open communication.We expect our authors to:

• Provide high‑quality artwork or samples suitable for publication

• Be able to explain processes and techniques clearly (with editorial support where needed)

• Work to an agreed schedule and meet deadlines

• Communicate early if any issues arise during the writing process

Don’t worry if writing isn’t your strongest skill - our experienced editors will guide and support you throughout.

What You Can Expect from Us

At Search Press, we pride ourselves on our strong, supportive relationships with our authors.You can expect:

• A dedicated, in‑house specialist editor

• Collaborative input from our design, production, publicity and sales teams

• Expert design and layout to showcase your work at its best

• Professional photography and illustration support where required

• Clear communication and guidance from proposal through to publication

All editorial, design and production costs are covered by Search Press.

Royalties and Payment

Once your book has been approved for publication, we’ll discuss payment options with you. Authors can choose between:

• A traditional royalty arrangement, or

• A one‑off fee

We’ll talk you through the options to help you decide what’s right for you.

Preparing Your Book Proposal

To begin, you’ll need to submit a written proposal outlining your idea. Publishers receive many submissions, so clarity, focus and research are essential.Your proposal should include:

1. Overview

   What is your book about, and who is it for?

2. The Market

   Who will buy this book, and what level of experience do they have?

3. Competition

   Details of at least three existing titles that would compete with your book.

4. Key Selling Points

   What makes your book stand out?

5. Synopsis and Draft Contents

   A summary of the book and a provisional contents list.

6. Samples of Your Work

   Images, links to online portfolios, published articles, or previous books.

7. About You

   A short biography including your background, experience, exhibitions, awards, online presence and social media reach. If you have an international following — particularly in North America — please let us know.

Submitting Your Proposal

Please send your proposal to our team:

Email: submissions@searchpress.com

Or by post to:
Search Press Ltd
Wellwood
North Farm Road
Tunbridge Wells
Kent TN2 3DR
United Kingdom

If you’ve previously published with another publisher, please check your existing contracts before submitting a new proposal.