book design and printing

James Darley

book design and printing

James Darley

Holywell helps James Darley fulfil his self-publishing ambition – to create a stunning hardback book and collector's edition

James Darley has a passion for Clumber spaniels and has been a catalyst for the revival of this 250-year-old breed for over 45 years. He first came across the dogs in 1971 when saw them at the Game Fair in Stowe and acquired his first Clumber in 1975. Since then, he has led a quest to salvage this vulnerable native breed from decline and to reintroduce the many qualities and features that show-oriented owners have managed to breed out.

Over the years, James has often been asked and encouraged by others to share his knowledge of Clumbers, and this ultimately inspired him to write his book Rebirth of The Royal Spaniel – The Clumber in the Field.

Rebirth of the Royal Spaniel cover

Taking more than a decade to compile, with research trips to France and around the UK, James finally found the time to complete his text while in lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic.

finding a book printing partner

When it came to publishing his work, James had a very clear vision: “I wanted a book with enduring character. A book that would be regarded as something special.” He traced a once-visited bookshop in Oxford specialising in leather-bound books, and was referred to Green Street Bindery which recommended Holywell Press to help him design and print his book.

“Working with Holywell was an entirely constructive process. I was able to take inspiration from other books they had produced to narrow down options for the high-quality finish I wanted.”

– James Darley

James settled on a hardback cover with silk art paper for the contents. A slip case made of cloth-covered board was also specified for a collector’s edition.

Rebirth of the Royal Spaniel inside spread

He continues, “It quickly became clear that Holywell was as committed to high quality as I was. I was impressed by their design recommendations, such as including white space on pages to help the readability and design. It was always quick and easy to make changes and I encountered good grace and professionalism from whomever I dealt with.”

creating beautiful hardback books

James supplied his final text as a Word document and the images as a mix of digital files, slides, photographs, and prints. The book’s contents were laid out by Holywell’s design team over 188 pages which were section-sewn, case bound and finished with a matt laminated dust jacket. The collector’s edition was quarter bound and included a slip case.

Rebirth of the Royal Spaniel standard and collector's editions

James has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from everyone who has seen his book so far. Rebirth of The Royal Spaniel – The Clumber in the Field is available to buy from his website and you can email James for further information.

If you'd like to discuss self-publishing a book or need help with any design or printing project, please call 01865 242098 or contact us using the button below.