Paper Cuts Self-Publishing Co-op

The Paper Knives Self-Publishing Co-op is an application-based program that includes:

• self-publishing small runs of print and audio chapbooks at below-market cost 

• participate in peer review, revision and proofreading workshops; 

• receive training about the design, production, distribution and marketing aspects of self-publishing

• record audiobook versions of their manuscrips

• market and distribute their book through Poetry Movement channels, major print, ebook and audiobook retailers

• launch their book with a free vendor table and featured reading spot at the open mic reception of the mid(we)st lit fest.

While regional prices may average anywhere between $4-8 for a card stock covered 24-48-page chapbook for a minimum run of 100 or more, Paper Knives gives poets the ability to print editions of as few as 25 chapbooks for as little as $2.50 each. This allows self-publishing poets to earn substantially more more on each chapbook they sell. I ties them into the Poetry Movement's developing network of open mics, reading series, bookstores, libraries and other literary venues and organizations throughout the region.

To access the Self-Publishing Co-op, poets need to first complete a FREE 6-week Chapbook Development Seminar. This ensures every poet's manuscript receives a peer review and proof-reading edit before the poet learns how to layout their chapbook, design the cover according to industry standards and prepare them for digital and print publication, and develop the skills necessary to make self-publishing sustainable.

"What's the catch?" you ask. "Nothing's free." 

Our discount printing packages are available exclusively poets who have complete the course and are actively subscribed to our email magazine. We want you to join the Poetry Movement. Also, the below-market final unit price mentioned above does reflect a very slight markup that funds Paper Knives publications, marketing, and support authors.

Ready to apply? 

The Self-Publishing Co-op applications open in July of 2027, with a September 1 deadline. A cohort of between 4 and 6 poets will edit, design and publish their chapbook in time for a release party at our mid(we)st lit fest in Racine, WI, the literary hub of the Chi-waukee region.