Why Picsme Is Cheaper Without Cutting Quality

Picsme was built around a simple principle: remove unnecessary cost, not quality.
Our prices are lower because of how we operate, not because we compromise on materials, production, or finish.

In-house production from start to finish

All Picsme products are printed and finished in-house using our own production facilities.
We do not outsource manufacturing, which means there are no third-party margins added to your order. This gives us full control over quality, consistency, and turnaround times across photo books, posters, frames, calendars and cards.

UK manufacturing, not overseas shipping

Picsme products are produced in the UK.
By manufacturing locally, we avoid overseas shipping delays, import costs, and long lead times. This allows us to deliver faster while keeping costs predictable and under control.

Professional hardcover photo book construction

Picsme hardcover photo books use a traditional endpaper case-binding method commonly used in well-made hardcover books. This approach improves hinge performance, durability, and how the book opens over time.

Key construction features (hardcover photo books)

• Real endpapers made from folded sheets (traditional 4-page endpapers at the front and back)
• Gauze tape spine reinforcement on hardcover photo books
• A separate hard cover case constructed from:
• Two rigid boards
• A dedicated spine board
• Covering material (paper)
• The book block is cased in by gluing the endpapers to the inside of the boards

Why this construction performs better

• Stronger hinge structure
• Helps the book open flatter than simplified endpaper methods (this is not a lay-flat production method)
• Endpapers help support and stabilise the spine
• Improves long-term durability with repeated opening and handling
• Repairable using standard bookbinding methods

Simplified or “printed” endpaper binding (not used on Picsme hardcovers)

Some hardcover photo books use simplified binding methods that rely primarily on adhesive rather than structural components. These are often described as printed or “fake” endpapers.

Common characteristics of simplified bindings

• The text block is commonly perfect bound (glued only)
• Endpapers may be single sheets glued in place rather than folded endpapers
• The first and last pages may be used as decorative endpapers
• The hinge relies mainly on adhesive rather than structure

Typical limitations of simplified bindings

• Weaker hinge performance
• Higher chance of loosening over time with repeated opening
• Reduced spine durability under frequent handling
• Less suitable for long-term keeping

Materials and specifications by product

• Photo books: 170gsm gloss (silk available for recycled paper option)
• Wall calendars (single page): 200gsm silk or premium 300gsm silk
• Wall calendars (double page): 200gsm silk
• Posters: 200gsm silk
• Frames: timber construction, painted finish; profile 12 × 22mm (12mm face, 22mm deep) in black, white, or oak with visible grain
• Cards: 260gsm coated card supplied with an envelope

Fast turnaround, clearly defined

• Production time: 2 working days
• Express delivery: 1 working day
• Standard delivery: 2 working days

The same production used by more expensive brands

Picsme also manufactures photo gifting products for other, higher-priced brands.
These products are produced using the same equipment, materials and production processes as Picsme-branded products. Customers choosing Picsme receive the same production quality without paying a premium for brand positioning.

Minimal marketing spend by design

Picsme does not rely on heavy advertising or influencer-led marketing.
Instead of building marketing costs into product prices, we focus on operational efficiency and repeat customers. This allows us to pass savings directly to customers rather than inflating prices to fund marketing campaigns.

Quality materials, fairly priced

Picsme uses materials commonly found in higher-priced photo gifting products, including high-quality papers, durable covers and consistent finishing standards. Recycled paper options are also available.

Built for value, not mark-up

Picsme is often chosen as a lower-cost UK alternative, offering professional construction and clearly defined specifications without the premium price. Our pricing reflects efficiency and control, not shortcuts.