Quick Answer: If you’re deciding between Lulu or CreateSpace, the practical answer is that Lulu is still available, while CreateSpace was discontinued and merged into Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).
If you’ve been researching self-publishing options, you’ve probably come across the debate: Lulu or CreateSpace. Many aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, educators, and independent publishers wonder which platform is the better choice for printing and distributing books.
However, the comparison isn’t as straightforward as it once was. While Lulu remains an active self-publishing platform, CreateSpace no longer exists as a standalone service. This creates confusion for many writers who still encounter older blog posts, tutorials, and publishing guides mentioning CreateSpace.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:
- Whether Lulu or CreateSpace is the correct comparison today
- What each platform means
- The history behind CreateSpace
- Key differences between Lulu and CreateSpace
- Publishing, printing, and distribution options
- Common misconceptions
- Examples and use cases
- Frequently asked questions
By the end, you’ll know exactly which platform is relevant today and which option best suits your publishing goals.
Lulu or CreateSpace: The Complete Comparison Guide
Quick Answer Table
| Feature | Lulu | CreateSpace |
| Current Status | Active self-publishing platform | Discontinued platform |
| Correct Current Usage | Yes | Historical reference only |
| Main Purpose | Print-on-demand publishing | Former print-on-demand publishing |
| Distribution | Global distribution options | Merged into Amazon KDP |
| Availability | Available today | No longer available |
| Example Sentence | “I published my workbook through Lulu.” | “I published my first novel through CreateSpace in 2016.” |
| Recommended for New Authors | Yes | No, because it no longer exists |
Which One Is Correct?
Both Lulu and CreateSpace are real publishing platform names. However, only one remains active today.
Lulu
Lulu is a current self-publishing and print-on-demand platform that allows creators to publish:
- Books
- Journals
- Workbooks
- Magazines
- Calendars
- Educational materials
Authors can sell books through Lulu’s distribution network or directly to readers.
CreateSpace
CreateSpace was formerly one of the most popular self-publishing platforms owned by Amazon. It helped authors print and distribute paperback books.
However, Amazon officially retired CreateSpace and integrated its services into Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).
Therefore, while CreateSpace is historically valid, it is no longer a platform authors can use today.
Meaning of the Correct Word: Lulu
Definition
Lulu is a self-publishing company that provides print-on-demand and global distribution services for authors, businesses, educators, and content creators.
Explanation
Founded in 2002, Lulu became one of the pioneers of independent publishing. The platform allows users to upload content, design books, order printed copies, and distribute publications through various channels.
Common Uses
Lulu is often used for:
- Self-published novels
- Academic books
- Training manuals
- Photo books
- Business publications
- Educational resources
Real-World Examples
- An educator publishes a classroom workbook through Lulu.
- A business prints employee training manuals using Lulu.
- An independent novelist distributes paperbacks via Lulu’s network.
- A photographer creates a premium photo book with Lulu.
Example Sentences
- “I chose Lulu because it offers hardcover printing.”
- “Our organization uses Lulu for annual reports.”
- “The author launched her poetry collection through Lulu.”
Meaning of the Alternative Word: CreateSpace
Definition
CreateSpace was an Amazon-owned print-on-demand publishing platform that enabled authors to publish paperback books.
Historical Context
Before Kindle Direct Publishing expanded its print services, CreateSpace was one of the easiest ways for authors to publish books on Amazon.
The platform handled:
- Printing
- Distribution
- Book manufacturing
- Amazon listings
Current Status
CreateSpace is no longer operating.
Amazon migrated CreateSpace accounts and services to Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP Print).
Example Sentences
- “I published my memoir through CreateSpace in 2015.”
- “Many authors moved from CreateSpace to KDP Print.”
- “Older publishing tutorials often reference CreateSpace.”
Is CreateSpace Incorrect?
Not exactly.
CreateSpace is not an incorrect word or spelling mistake. It is simply an outdated platform name.
It remains correct when discussing publishing history.
Key Differences Between Lulu and CreateSpace
1. Platform Availability
| Feature | Lulu | CreateSpace |
| Active Today | Yes | No |
| Accepts New Users | Yes | No |
| Publishing Services | Yes | No |
The biggest difference is that Lulu is active while CreateSpace has been retired.
2. Ownership
| Platform | Owner |
| Lulu | Independent publishing company |
| CreateSpace | Formerly Amazon |
Lulu operates independently, while CreateSpace was an Amazon service.
3. Publishing Options
| Publishing Feature | Lulu | CreateSpace |
| Paperback Books | Yes | Previously |
| Hardcover Books | Yes | Limited historically |
| Workbooks | Yes | Previously |
| Photo Books | Yes | Limited |
| Calendars | Yes | Limited |
Lulu offers a wider variety of publishing formats today.
4. Distribution
Lulu provides distribution beyond a single marketplace.
CreateSpace focused heavily on Amazon distribution before being merged into KDP.
5. Current Alternative
If someone asks:
“Should I use CreateSpace today?”
The answer is no.
The modern Amazon equivalent is:
- Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Today’s comparison is more accurately:
- Lulu vs KDP
rather than Lulu vs CreateSpace.
Pronunciation Differences
Lulu
Pronunciation:
LOO-loo
IPA:
/ˈluːluː/
CreateSpace
Pronunciation:
kree-ATE-space
IPA:
/kriˈeɪt speɪs/
Both names are easy to pronounce and rarely cause confusion in spoken conversations.
Grammar and Usage Differences
Interestingly, the confusion between Lulu and CreateSpace is not a grammar issue but a platform comparison issue.
Correct Usage
✔ “I published my workbook through Lulu.”
✔ “I originally used CreateSpace before Amazon retired it.”
Incorrect Usage
✖ “I uploaded my new manuscript to CreateSpace yesterday.”
This sentence is incorrect because CreateSpace no longer exists.
A better sentence would be:
✔ “I uploaded my manuscript to KDP yesterday.”
Common Mistakes People Make
When researching Lulu or CreateSpace, people often make these mistakes:
1. Assuming CreateSpace Still Exists
Many old blog posts remain online, leading readers to believe CreateSpace is still available.
2. Comparing Current Services to a Retired Platform
Some guides compare Lulu and CreateSpace as if both are active competitors.
3. Ignoring KDP
Modern authors should compare:
- Lulu
- KDP
- IngramSpark
rather than Lulu and CreateSpace alone.
4. Following Outdated Tutorials
Publishing tutorials from before 2018 may contain instructions that no longer apply.
5. Confusing Brand History with Current Services
CreateSpace remains part of self-publishing history, but it is not a current publishing solution.
Correct Usage Examples
Casual Examples
- “My friend printed a family cookbook through Lulu.”
- “I remember when authors used CreateSpace regularly.”
Professional Examples
- “Our company selected Lulu for employee handbook production.”
- “The publishing workflow was migrated from CreateSpace to KDP.”
Educational Examples
- “Students created a custom workbook using Lulu.”
- “Publishing courses often discuss CreateSpace as part of self-publishing history.”
Literary Examples
- “The novelist released her debut collection through Lulu.”
- “Many independent authors began their careers on CreateSpace before the transition to KDP.”
Marketing Examples
- “Lulu supports branded publishing solutions.”
- “CreateSpace helped popularize print-on-demand publishing during its era.”
Self-Publishing Landscape Today
To understand the Lulu or CreateSpace discussion, it helps to look at the modern self-publishing ecosystem.
Today’s leading platforms include:
| Platform | Best For |
| Lulu | Custom publishing and diverse print products |
| KDP | Amazon-focused publishing |
| IngramSpark | Wide bookstore distribution |
| Blurb | Photo books and visual publications |
| Draft2Digital | Ebook distribution |
As a result, authors evaluating options today should focus on current platforms rather than discontinued services.
Word Origin / Etymology
Lulu
The word “Lulu” has appeared in English slang for more than a century.
Historically, it referred to:
- Something remarkable
- An exceptional person
- Something outstanding
The company adopted the name as a memorable and distinctive brand identity.
CreateSpace
CreateSpace combines two English words:
- Create
- Space
The name suggested a platform where creators could develop and publish their work.
It reflected the company’s mission of empowering independent authors and content creators.
Why CreateSpace Became So Popular
Several factors contributed to CreateSpace’s popularity.
Easy Amazon Integration
Authors could quickly list books on Amazon.
Low Publishing Costs
There were minimal upfront expenses.
Print-on-Demand Technology
Books were printed only when ordered.
Beginner-Friendly Interface
Many first-time authors found the platform accessible.
Growing Self-Publishing Industry
CreateSpace benefited from the rapid expansion of independent publishing.
Because of these advantages, millions of books were published through CreateSpace before its retirement.
Why the CreateSpace Name Still Appears Online
Many people continue searching for “Lulu or CreateSpace” because:
- Old articles remain indexed in Google.
- Publishing forums contain historical discussions.
- Authors reference past experiences.
- Archived tutorials still receive traffic.
- Legacy books list CreateSpace as the publisher.
Consequently, the name continues to generate search interest years after the platform’s closure.
Easy Memory Tricks
Remembering the difference is simple.
Trick #1
Lulu = Live
Both start with the letter L.
Think:
Lulu is Live.
Trick #2
CreateSpace = Closed
Think:
CreateSpace Created history but is Closed today.
Trick #3
If you can sign up for it today, it’s Lulu.
If you can only read about it historically, it’s CreateSpace.
Lulu vs Modern Alternatives
Since CreateSpace no longer exists, here is a more practical comparison.
| Feature | Lulu | KDP | IngramSpark |
| Active Platform | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon Distribution | Limited compared to KDP | Excellent | Good |
| Hardcover Options | Strong | Good | Good |
| Global Reach | Strong | Strong | Excellent |
| Educational Publishing | Excellent | Moderate | Moderate |
| Print Customization | Strong | Moderate | Strong |
For many creators, the real decision today is between Lulu, KDP, and IngramSpark.
FAQs
Is Lulu better than CreateSpace?
Since CreateSpace no longer exists, Lulu is the only active platform between the two. However, many authors now compare Lulu with KDP instead.
Does CreateSpace still exist?
No. CreateSpace was discontinued and merged into Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).
What replaced CreateSpace?
Amazon’s KDP Print service replaced CreateSpace.
Can I publish a book on CreateSpace today?
No. New books cannot be published through CreateSpace.
Is Lulu a legitimate publishing platform?
Yes. Lulu is a well-established self-publishing and print-on-demand company used by authors and organizations worldwide.
Why do people still search for Lulu or CreateSpace?
Many older articles, tutorials, and forum discussions continue to reference CreateSpace, keeping the comparison popular.
Which platform offers more publishing formats?
Lulu generally offers a broader range of custom print products, including workbooks, manuals, calendars, and hardcover books.
What is the best alternative to CreateSpace?
The closest replacement is Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP Print), which absorbed CreateSpace’s publishing services.
Is Lulu good for self-publishing beginners?
Yes. Lulu provides beginner-friendly tools and flexible publishing options suitable for first-time authors.
Should authors still compare Lulu and CreateSpace?
Only for historical understanding. For practical publishing decisions today, compare Lulu with KDP or IngramSpark instead.
Conclusion
When evaluating Lulu or CreateSpace, it’s important to understand that this is no longer a comparison between two active publishing platforms.
Lulu remains a fully operational self-publishing and print-on-demand service, offering a wide range of publishing formats and distribution options. CreateSpace, on the other hand, is a retired Amazon platform that was merged into KDP Print.
For modern authors, educators, entrepreneurs, and independent publishers, the more relevant comparison is often Lulu vs KDP rather than Lulu vs CreateSpace.
The key takeaway is simple:
- Lulu = active and available today
- CreateSpace = historically important but discontinued
Understanding this distinction helps you make informed publishing decisions and avoid outdated information found across the web.
