One of the wonderful things about working for a craft book publisher, is finding new talent. It is easier than you think to propose a new book idea. If you have a truly unique approach, or have developed a new technique for an old craft – there just might be a book.

Here is a simple 3 step process.

1. Develop a unique concept or approach.
Take a look at what makes your book idea unique. That means more than hearing it from your friends. Take a serious look at the industry: what books have been recently published in your craft, what makes your idea different from their idea, how will your approach the subject differently, and who is your audience. Still got a good idea?

2. Write your proposal.
Basically, we want to get a very clear snapshot of what this book is about and your qualifications to write it. A proposal consists of:

•    Synopsis of the book: what is the subject, how are you going to approach it, how does the book work, how will it teach the craft, and why will it inspire the reader?
•    Table of contents
•    Sample chapter, photographs of some of the projects or designs,
•    Review of the audience and the marketplace: list competition books, who published them, what is the price, and any other information you know about them
•    Your bio: tell us why are you are qualified to write the book

3. Submit your proposal.
Package your proposal and samples and send it to a publisher. Of course, here at F+W Media. Make sure to take a look at each of our imprints to see which one is best for your idea:

Krause Publications
Jay Staten (jay.staten@fwpubs.com), editorial director

North Light Crafts
Tonia Davenport (tonia.davenport@fwpubs.com), acquisitions editor

David & Charles
Jane Trollope (jane.trollope@davidandcharles.co.uk), commissioning editor

Physical address:
F+W Media, 4700 East Galbraith Road, Cincinnati, OH 4523

The important thing is to do your research. See what is in the market, who is publishing what, and what other kinds of content delivery do they have. I always feel bad when a really great book comes along, but I don't publish in that area.

Then what happens at the publishing house? Stay tuned for next week.

-Jay