How I Published a Craft Book! (And yep! We talk about Money)

In this video I talk about everything I learned during the process of working with a traditional publishing house to produce a book! Nothing is off-limits! I talk about advances, percentages, how I got the attention of my publisher - everything!
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[@vdenegre]

Hey Summer, great episode. There are so many variables in book contracts for craft publishing. Based on previous experience (I worked in craft magazine publishing and sat on the book publishing board for IW) I'd say you made good decisions, but Abrams made out well, too. The value of your established brand and unique branding is high - it is distinct and recognizable. You provided excellent on-brand photography (the cost of a professional photographer and stylist exceeds $1,500/day). I've purchased your patterns: They are well-written and clear. The cost of writing a pattern from scratch is likely $150-$200 each; the cost of technical editing is similar. You also created (I assume) all of your own samples, likely more than one for each pattern. If you did not receive gratis yarn from manufacturers, that also needs to be factored into the equation. A good and fair contract includes a generous advance that takes all of these factors into consideration. As a maker, your compensation should reflect your investment in time, talent, materials, and creativity. One thing you did not mention was copyright and ownership of your patterns/photographs and if you signed that over to your publisher. Will they be able to disaggregate your book and sell these separately or republish them down the road? And are you obligated to give Abrams the right of first refusal on your next book? All of those things should be considered when reviewing a contract. AND CONGRATULATIONS - I can't wait to add this book to my knitting library!

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much for all this info, and sharing your expertise in the publishing industry! This was super helpful for me to read, and you made such excellent points about the value of an established brand. As to your questions, Abrams does have rights to first refusal for my next book! I keep the rights to my patterns and photography, and they keep the rights to the unique design elements of the book. They can republish parts of my book down the road in anthologies if they choose. Those are all bits of the contract I forgot to mention in the video! I knew I'd forget something 😂 Very much worth talking about those parts too! I may have to do a "part II" someday!

[@jacquelinepirotta]

Hi Summer! So i appreciate this episode. its really interesting, super interesting. but really the bottom line is i want to support you and our industry (and i love knitting socks) so i bought you book. I look at what happened to pom pom, and i don't know if they shut down due to operating costs, but i do know that designers do amazing work that takes months to bring to life, and yet maybe people are squibbing about the cost of a pattern which might actually be less than the cost of someone's Starbucks coffee that day. its a strange consumer psychology. so yes, i love this episode - its really interesting - but your book is worth hundreds and i hope it makes lots of money for you. you deserve it. :)

[@krautkopf65]

I’m new to sock knitting and bought a couple of weeks ago the ebook. My new project I’ll be starting up is one of the ones in the book. I’m really looking forward to learning. Great episode!

[@katharinearburn8158]

I love your transparency about pay. 🎉 It’s scary but so important to give others the power to advocate for themselves. I hate that our culture has made it such a forbidden topic!

[@SweaterWeatherPodcast]

I pre-ordered the book and it came! I’m so excited to dive in. I love your description at the back”…and a dog who hates her for no good reason” 😂 Charming! 😂

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much!!❤

[@jadewaters3288]

Camped out by the door waiting for my copy to arrive ❤❤ Thank you for being the sock knitting queen we all needed 🧦🧶

[@trivialknits]

Hi Summer! I’m a subscriber to your channel who also happens to be a book publishing consultant so today’s video was up my alley in more ways than one. Congrats on your beautiful new book release! Regarding your search for a lawyer to review your publishing contract, you might consider joining the Authors Guild. There’s a modest yearly fee to be a member, but one of the perks is that they have a lawyer on staff who will review your future book contracts for you and give you a list of points you may want to negotiate. I’ve used this service for my last two contracts and it is very easy and helpful. And to take you up on your suggestion to share numbers, I received no advance on my first book (an academic monograph) and a $10k advance on my second book (The Book Proposal Book: A Guide for Scholarly Authors, published by Princeton University Press). I’m sure you will earn out your advance if you haven’t already! 5000 copies is a lot!! Congrats!

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thanks for that info about the Author's Guild! I'm going to look that up now! And for sharing your advance info. Congratulations on two books! That's huge!!!

[@lolarogers2313]

I came to the comments to make the same suggestion. The Author's Guild protects the rights of U.S. authors of every kind of book, and they're a huge help in not only advising about your contract but encouraging you to look out for your own rights. If you happen to publish in the U.K., they have a very similar organization called the Society of Authors that provides contract vetting to members at no charge. Both have been very helpful for me.

[@conniedunfield7601]

Hi Summer, I bought your book because I want to learn to knit socks. It was exactly what I was look for. Your book touches on all subjects with great resources! Thanks!

[@rotherfamily]

I bought both ebook AND physical copy! I love it. So glad to have found you ❤

[@EmilyTheOwl]

I screeched when the bookstore called to tell me my pre-ordered copy was ready for pickup. Such an amazing book and resource!

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Yay! I hope you enjoy it!!!

[@junefrederickson5570]

I went to buy your book from Amazon this morning and it’s sold out - Congratulations! I will wait for the re stock.

[@susananderson5073]

Hey there! I’m also a sock knitter in Tulsa- you may want to look for an intellectual property attorney next time! There are some in Tulsa That can help you out. Good luck with your adventures’

[@skyhowie54]

Hi Summer! I have absolutely no desire to publish a book, but this video was incredibly educational. Thank you!

[@dominyika]

Ive enjoyed your channel for years...I started knitting because I wanted to make socks so I love anyone whos as obsessed as me. Love that your posting more often love your content and thanks also my book has been secured lol

[@user-or3pq2wt7l]

I purchased a copy of your book in Ontario, Canada yesterday. It is so beautiful and a joy to read. Well done. I am also enjoying your podcast. I’ve been knitting socks for years but am learning so much! Thank you for sharing your love of sock knitting ❤

[@sprinklesparkleglow]

I got your book delivered yesterday. I absolutely love it. I’m a newer knitter, I’ve knit 4 pairs of socks before (one of them being the tender she socks) and your book has so much good info in it and so helpful. The patterns are amazing also.

[@kathleengilmore7611]

My pre-ordered book arrived last night @ 9pm. Thank you. I also ordered your suggested yarn from Knit Picks and others to be ready to cast on. I’m excited to get started on your patterns. I’m spreading the word about your patterns and fantastic podcasts. Summer, thank you for the happiness you add to my day. Congrats and all the best on selling your book it is perfect,

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much!!❤

[@carolinelescard9370]

I pre-ordered my copy while i was listening to the video presenting it, you didn't have to twist my arm or tell me twice! I got it this afternoon and i want to make every single one of them. Congratulations on an amazing book

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much!!❤

[@frant2970]

Yay!!🎉 can’t wait to get your book!!

[@Brinalea1031]

Congratulations on release day! I pre-ordered on Amazon so I can’t wait to get home and have a look.

[@evyknutsen180]

Looking forword to your book😍Right now its sold out😮👏Lots of love to you from another sockknitter in Norway🥰

[@justjoniok]

I’ve been looking everywhere for your book, keep seeing it’s not available , so I can to the source. Can’t wait to see it & get started knitting your cute socks ❤ Love from a neighbor in Owasso Oklahoma 🍀 & ❤

[@marythomas5886]

I bought your book because of your enthusiasm and your artistic patterns. I love the photographs and especially the covers. I can’t wait to read and learn. 🩷🧡💙💜

[@cvanberg3923]

Got my book today too! Yay! Can't wait to dig in :)

You made my day getting my book today. Love it and very happy I preordered it. I’ve learned so much from you and wishing you great success with the book.

[@janetkemper9177]

Congratulations!!! My book arrives today!!! Woohoo! Thanks for all your hard work.

[@annettecarman8709]

It’s here🎉 beautiful book !

[@hillsidefiber-stitchingwit5350]

Congratulations! I’ve pre-ordered the book and can’t wait to receive it! Good luck to you on this huge accomplishment!

[@postulatedspace]

This is such a helpful episode. And I really appreciate your honesty. You are so great. Defintely getting the book.

[@kristinahill3708]

Ecstatic for you!!!!!!! Absolutely love your book

[@dollywilliams3446]

Congratulations on your new book! I can’t wait for mine to be delivered!

[@debracrow9656]

Good to know on preorders!! Looking forward to meeting you and purchasing a book tonight.

[@WovenTalesDesigns]

Congrats on your book again! Can’t wait to receive mine and continue my new sock obsession! I’m glad you waited to work with the right publishing company, thanks for being transparent and honest about your experience ❤😊

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Me too! I'm actually astonished that I was mature enough to wait for the right fit 😂

[@BluebonnetsandWhiskey]

I’m pacing at the window waiting for my book to arrive! So excited!!

[@lesamatthes7811]

Enjoyed this video. And I love the book!!

[@thekindles1183]

Congrats!!!!!! I'm so excited to receive my pre-order today, I think! All the best! Kimberly

[@wendycastelli6254]

No kidding...... I was actually watching this video when Amazon delivered my book! I am so excited to read it, learn some new techniques and knit some of your new sock patterns. Congratulations! The book is beautiful (and looks to be packed with great sock knitting info)! I'm sure it will be a big success, and I can't wait for your next one!

[@ihesharema]

Waiting on amazon to deliver mine!!!

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much!!❤

[@TheMomzombie]

Summer, you’re so refreshing. I looooove your videos. I pre-ordered your book from Amazon a few weeks ago. I can’t wait for it to arrive. I’m excited to try some new patterns. Congratulations. 🍾 I’m so happy for you.🥰

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much!!!

[@haleynh]

I pre-ordered your book and am eagerly awaiting its delivery today! You also inspired me to purchase some bright yarn to play with color, so I am ready to get knitting ASAP!

[@ellie-cr1ld]

Pre-ordered your book and it finally arrived yesterday. It's fantastic! I love everything about it and it will definitely be used as I progress in sock knitting. Congrats, Summer, and I hope you do continue to write more books in the future.

[@catb2069]

Congratulations, Summer! So excited that my preorder will arrive in the next hour 🎉. Thank you for the hard work and dedication to write it!! Even though I never intend writing a book, I really appreciate you sharing your process. It also gives me more appreciation for the end result. Thank you! ❤

[@pommerainette375]

Thank you ! Very nice video! I’m French and I pre-ordered your book few days ago! I’m looking forward to get it in march ❤ love your work!

[@lettymjurado]

I was so excited when Amazon delivered mine. The book is BEAUTIFUL 😍 and I can’t wait to cast on a pair of socks. Thank you very much!

[@GiFtEoS]

Wow! Very interesting...a pleasure to watch! Thank you!

[@tarasignet7368]

Congratulations on your book! I'm anxiously watching for the Amazon van to arrive today. Fingers crossed it's earlier than later so I can curl up and read it today after work.

[@SewKnitee]

Congratulations Summer! I got my kindle version this morning! Thank you! 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@JoannePriel]

Congratulations again, my book comes today I cannot wait! This was such an interesting video I love how candid you were about the process and the money aspect on writing a book. I have always been interested in the breakdown. I wish you great success with your book !

[@wigglymoose]

my book should be delivered tomorrow! so excited! i already took your advice from your last book of just practicing knitting vanilla socks to figure out my best heel and construction type (already know anatomical toe is my best toe)

[@abigailyoung6983]

Oh my gosh I love your content and it was so interesting hearing your honest explanation of the whole publishing process. Your book is GORGEOUS and I might have squealed with glee when I opened it yesterday 😍

[@conniekuykendall5085]

Summer, I too am waiting for the Amazon truck. So excited to have your book in my hands!

[@Kaileynorriscreates]

Yay! Bonus video!! Hey Summer! I’ll be getting my copy soon! Congratulations! ❤

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much!!❤

[@woolenfeet]

I think I preordered the second I saw your story. I'm excited to dive in and knit through the patterns!

[@jhuntsman17]

My books came today. Summer it’s beautiful! You should be so proud of yourself. I am so excited to knit the all these beautiful socks.

[@kristalrose29]

I asked Hubby to pre-order this for my birthday and it’s supposed to be here today! I’m very excited! I love seeing folks making a living off their passions. It gives me hope that someday I can do it too.

[@BostonMelG]

I have the book! I love it! This explanation of the process was very interesting - thanks!

[@clairerobinson6571]

Yay! Congratulations on publishing day. Preordered, and (impatiently) waiting...

[@shawneedobbs3897]

It was delivered today Your book is beautiful! Congratulations!

[@debbiesmith923]

I would love to see all your other patterns in one book. A great addition to this book. I love the size too fits in my knitting bag. Well done Summer.

[@candy9986]

🤗. Congratulations ! Good Job, Tulsa🧦 💕

[@user-ht5ud1hb1t]

Waiting for Amazon to deliver your book. Can’t wait. Also just finished the Hibernal socks and love the pattern and love the finished product. Thank you.

[@ihesharema]

I pre-bought your book on Amazon and I cannot wait until it's delivered!!! So excited to knit up all of these luscious sock yarns I've acquired over the past year.

[@marygrace7538]

Summer, I just started watching you this year. I am so excited for you writing your first book. It’s absolutely wonderful. I can’t wait to make every sock in it.

[@helenoreillylong9497]

Just ordered your beautiful book as I watch your video. Congratulations!

[@annatrusty]

Congratulations! Totally helps me!

[@profbookwurm]

Expecting my copy to arrive soon. Very excited. Congratulations. Hoping to see you in McKinney.

[@thecraftyreader]

Congrats Summer!!! I'm so happy for you and I'm eagerly awaiting the arrival of my copy that I preordered pretty much the moment you announced. Also loved your soundtracks for the Spain and Germany publications 😂

[@brittschmiesing8960]

Thank you for sharing this! I think it's super helpful for folks to hear and know what goes into book publishing so it's a bit less scary for them.

[@jessicastuppyknits871]

Thank you for the info. Love you!

[@tracyvirta6692]

Congratulations!🥳Waiting for my book to arrive💕🧶🧦

[@alaynezadar8312]

Amazon delivered today!! Can't wait to dive in...thank you for sharing the process...very interesting... And Congratulations🎉🎉🎉

[@pamelaveley]

Just got my copy in mail today and it is GORGEOUS! And WONDERFUL! In addition to being a warm and delightful book full of clear and gentle instructions, it is an amazing source of knitting inspiration. Plus it is just plain fun to read! And it is truly an ART book in the best Abrams tradition! Easily the best knitting book I have ever purchased! Congratulations!

[@janetdubbelman6389]

Amazing Summer so excited for you and thank you for creating such a great book I’m in Sydney and I pre ordered a book so it should arrive soon I cannot wait xx 😘 good luck and hope they have to run another reprint

[@charlenepodgorski8545]

I can’t wait to look through my copy. I pre-ordered 2 copies, one for me and one as a gift for a friend!

[@theresalucas776]

Congratulations on your new book!

[@lenan6265]

I can’t wait for my sock book to be delivered to me…I preordered the sock book and I can’t wait for the book to come! I am excited!

[@janice4892]

Congratulation’s Summer Lee! My book arrived yesterday and I absolutely love every page. The design is amazing! I’m planning my first sock make. It’s tough to choose because I want to make all of them! Thank you so much! ❤

[@andreabush1742]

I bought the book it is gorgeous! I also bought your Knit Stars master class! Love both!!!

[@susanandrews23]

I am so excited to receive your book! Congratulations !!! It looks amazing. I live in Canada so mine will take a bit longer to get here, hopefully by the end of the month, I had pre ordered it so I know it will be on its way soon.

[@zuniaberrydesigns6664]

My book arrived today…it is beautiful! I can’t wait to dive in and I love the back flap!❤🎉

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Thank you so much!!❤

[@annettegourlie565]

And you get the book on release day with a pre order. I’m so excited that I will receive my book today!

[@crochetdecor]

Hello! Today I ordered your book. It will arrive in Romania, Europe! Thank you!

[@annpapadopulo]

I am so excited and waiting for Amazon to deliver my book to South Africa - just love your patterns and your podcasts.

[@khairunessa]

I pre-ordered your book and it has come. I knitted my first pair of socks from you so I felt I owed you something. So far I have knitted 3 pairs of the basic sock and I am planning to do more. I wish you all the best. I think you are amazing and refreshingly honest. I look forward to enhance my sock knitting skills

[@debbiesmith923]

Got my book today here in BC Canada! So excited.

[@brittanyandrade3732]

Happy book release day! My copy is out for delivery and I can’t wait for it I’m so excited!! About to abandon all my wips to cast on something new

[@joanknights]

Greetings from Maine! Great book!

[@laurad4839]

It is already on backorder! I placed my order anyway,it will be a nice surprise when it does show up. Congrats~

[@klaskelangford8324]

I got my book today: best thing to come home to after work!

[@lizbruno9794]

Love your podcast! I got your book last week actually, it is everything I hoped it would be! I have already made 2 pairs of your basic sock and I am looking forward to trying out color work socks as that will be new to me. The one thing I wish is that there could be a way to download patterns once the book is purchased. I love the hardcopy but I usually download pattern to my phone. I don't carry the books with me. I know I could take a photo but it isn't the same if that makes sense?? Anyway, I love your book and I can't wait to fill my sock drawer!

[@spottedbearknits3824]

My book is arriving today. Can’t wait!! You are so inspiring (I’m a sock knitter, not an author)…

[@dostopitnow]

It’s an awesome book! Got it today, read a whole lot of it and I love your writing style. I am excited to get knitting on the patterns. I’m not a super creative person, I enjoy patterns that other artists create. These patterns speak to me.❤❤❤

[@sdschantz]

Thank you for this great video! Very informative- I had no idea how the publishing industry worked. Thank you so much for sharing. And by the way, I’ll be doing a lot more pre-ordering from now on since I know what it means to the author! ❤️❤️❤️

[@debrasusan73]

👏👏👏 Yay! Mine will be here tomorrow, finally!!! Congratulations again AND that was very interesting. Thank you for sharing and taking us through the process!

[@summerleedesignco.6471]

Of course! I found the publishing industry so fascinating!

[@judithcarter7898]

This was such an interesting podcast and this is coming from someone who has no desire to ever write a book. Like I said just a really interesting podcast to see the whole process that goes into the books I love so much!

[@ingridspinknitlove1192]

I would love you to do a video on how to set up your own podcast. What video editing software you use, best practices you’ve found, how to boost activity, etc.

[@Emily_edge]

This was so interesting! I like to hear how I can support authors and I didn’t know how important presale orders were!

[@noelleparris9451]

Well I have already ordered your book, and I´m waiting for shipping info. Very much looking forward to it, I know it will be one of my most used resources! I thought your topic this episode was interesting and you shared quite a lot of information. I am sure it was helpful to those interested in publishing their own work one day. Congrats on your achievement!

[@showandtellmeg]

Hole forever! Lol also im very happy for you and I look forward to getting your book :)

[@user-uj7xg3xs4x]

I am on my way home from work and I got a notification earlier today that my book has been delivered! I'm so excited to get home and am hitting every red light along the way! 😢

[@andreaorourke]

Just found your channel a couple of weeks back. Binging on your content as I try to knit my first pair of socks. I absolutely can’t wait to purchase your book, I live in New Zealand, so hoping to purchase on amazon when available, 😊