Bonus 06: Amazon KDP's New Groundwood Paper — Lower Costs, Classic Feel, and What It Means for Your Books
Updated: Sep 14
Episode Summary
Amazon KDP has introduced Groundwood paper as a new beta option for eligible black-and-white paperbacks. In this bonus episode, KB breaks down what Groundwood paper is, how it compares to the existing white and cream options, the cost and environmental benefits, the important limitations authors need to know about, and actionable steps for evaluating whether to switch your titles.
Key Topics Covered
What Is Groundwood Paper?
Made via mechanical pulping (retains natural wood fiber and lignin)
Produces a classic mass-market paperback look and feel
Warm, off-white color with textured surface
Third paper option alongside existing white and cream
Benefits
~5% lower printing costs per page -- directly increases royalties
~27% lighter weight -- saves on shipping for author copies
Higher opacity -- less text show-through for better readability
15%+ fewer CO2 emissions -- with carbon credit offsets for residuals
Classic paperback feel -- textured, easy to turn, "old book" smell
Eligibility Requirements
Paperbacks with black & white interiors only
All trim sizes supported
Left-to-right reading direction
Available in all 14 KDP marketplaces
Compatible with Expanded Distribution (check trim size eligibility)
Important Limitations
Not for image-heavy books -- heavy ink can bleed through; Amazon may switch back to cream/white
Ages faster -- lignin causes yellowing, darkening, and embrittlement over time
Don't switch mid-series -- noticeable color mismatch with white/cream volumes
Cover file updates may be needed -- different caliper affects spine width for longer books (350+ pages cream / 525+ pages white)
Still in beta -- settings and UI may change
How to Switch
One by one: Bookshelf > Edit Paperback Content > Print Options > Change to Groundwood > Republish
Bulk conversion: Use KDP's bulk update tool for multiple eligible titles
Proof copies: Order before committing to see the paper in person
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Use Groundwood
Fiction novels, text-heavy nonfiction, minimal illustrations
NOT for: Image-heavy books, children's books, collectibles, mid-series volumes, workbooks
Action Steps
Log into KDP. Look for green banners and leaf icons on eligible titles
Order a proof or retail sample before switching
Calculate the royalty impact using KDP's pricing calculator
Start with one title. Don't bulk-convert everything on day one
Monitor the beta. Watch for updates from Amazon
Sources & Further Reading
KB's SelfPubEmpire. Your Empire Starts with a Single Page
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