Understanding the different types of illustrations used in children's books
Approach your illustrator well-informed, by knowing your illustration needs.
There are 4 main types of illustrations used in children's book. The illustration types are spot illustrations, half-page illustrations, full-page illustrations, and spread illustrations. Some illustrators charge more for full and spread illustrations, so going into this journey informed will help you stay within your budget and save money!


Spot illustrations consist of a stand-alone object or character without a background. This type of illustrations are budget-friendly and tend to cost less than other types of illustrations.

Half-page illustrations take up half of one page and can consist of characters and background scenery. This option is also budget-friendly.

Full-page illustrations take up a full page and consist of characters and background scenery.

Full-spread illustrations is a full scene on both pages in your book, it can consist of characters and background scenery. This type of illustration tends to cost more because of the level of detail and time it takes to create.
I hope this article has been helpful for you with understanding the different types of illustrations used in children's books. Please note that your children's book can contain a mixture of the illustrations listed out in this article. That is the beauty of self-publishing!
Until next time....
Happy reading and writing!
💕 Toni