How to Earn Money Selling Coloring Books on Amazon KDP Using Canva

With the rise of self-publishing and digital design tools, earning passive income online has never been easier. One of the most beginner-friendly and profitable ways to do this is by creating and selling coloring books through Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing). With platforms like Canva, you don't need to be a professional artist to get started. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step you need to take to start earning from your own coloring books.


Step 1: Research Popular Niches

Before designing anything, it's important to choose a niche that sells well. Some of the most profitable and evergreen coloring book niches include:

  • Animals (cats, dogs, jungle animals, etc.)

  • Mandalas (great for stress relief and mindfulness)

  • Fantasy Creatures (dragons, fairies, unicorns)

  • Inspirational Quotes (with decorative lettering and designs)

  • Holiday Themes (Christmas, Halloween, Valentine’s Day)

Use Amazon's search bar and explore the “Books” category to analyze what's trending and see what types of coloring books are performing well.


Step 2: Design Your Coloring Book with Canva

Canva is a free, beginner-friendly design tool that makes it easy to create beautiful books.

  • Start by choosing a template size that matches KDP’s printing requirements (commonly 8.5 x 11 inches).

  • Use Canva’s elements or upload your own line art illustrations for coloring pages.

  • Ensure all images are high-resolution (300 DPI) and designed in black and white for printing.

  • Add page numbers, a title page, or a dedication if desired.

  • When finished, export your design as a print-ready PDF.


Step 3: Create a KDP Account

To publish your book, you’ll need an Amazon KDP account.

  1. Go to kdp.amazon.com

  2. Sign in with your Amazon account or create a new one

  3. Complete the necessary tax and payment information

    • For non-US residents, you’ll need to fill out the W-8BEN form during registration


Step 4: Format Your Book

Before uploading to KDP, ensure your book follows these formatting guidelines:

  • Save your interior file from Canva as a PDF Print file.

  • Make sure your book dimensions match your selected trim size.

  • Leave margins and bleed space for professional printing.

  • Design a matching front and back cover in Canva using KDP’s cover calculator.


Step 5: Set Up Your Book Listing

Once your files are ready, head over to your KDP dashboard and:

  • Add your book title, author name, and book description

  • Choose up to 7 keywords and 2 categories that describe your book

  • Set your book price (between $2.99 and $9.99 to get a 70% royalty rate)

  • Preview your book and make sure everything looks perfect before publishing


Step 6: Publish Your Book

You’re now ready to publish!

  • Upload your interior file and cover file to KDP

  • Choose the type of print (black and white, bleed, matte/glossy cover)

  • Click “Publish Your Paperback Book”

Your book will be live on Amazon in 72 hours or less.


Step 7: Promote Your Book

Publishing is only the beginning—promotion is key to generating sales.

  • Use Amazon Ads (Sponsored Products or Sponsored Brands)

  • Post about your book on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook

  • Create a brand or niche page dedicated to coloring books

  • Partner with influencers or bloggers in the self-care or craft space


Step 8: Monitor and Optimize

Once your book is live:

  • Use the KDP Reports section to track sales and royalty earnings

  • Test different keywords or cover designs if your book isn’t performing well

  • Read customer reviews and use the feedback to improve your next book


Bonus Tips & Variations

  • Create a Series: Launch books around a central theme to build brand recognition

  • Bundle Pages: Offer extra printable pages or a digital version via Etsy or email signup

  • Seasonal Drops: Release new books ahead of holidays or trends

  • Build a Brand: Give your books a unique name or create a website/store around them


Final Thoughts

Selling coloring books on Amazon KDP is a low-investment, high-potential income stream—perfect for creative entrepreneurs, students, or side hustlers. Thanks to tools like Canva, you don’t need expensive software or design skills to get started.

If you stay consistent, publish multiple books, and refine your marketing strategy, you can build a reliable source of passive income right from your laptop.

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