Frequently Asked Questions
About PMBS & IMSLP
Are you part of IMSLP?
No. PMBS Music Printing is an independent company based in the UK. We create professional reprints of the files you see on IMSLP.
Why doesn’t your website have the IMSLP file I want?
All you need to do is fill in the contact form. We’ll add the file(s) to our website and email you when it’s done, usually within five working days.
Can you print files from IMSLP that don’t have a link to your site?
Yes. If the work is out of copyright in the UK / EU we can print it for you.
Uploading Your Own Material
Can I upload my own PDF, rather than ordering from IMSLP?
Absolutely. If you have your own PDF — whether it’s your own composition, a scanned score, or a file from another source — just email it to us and we’ll print it to the same high standard. We’ll optimise the pages (clean, straighten, resize, add uniform margins) just as we do for IMSLP files. Simply include your PDF with your order enquiry and let us know your preferred paper size, colour, and binding type.
Paper & Printing
Is your default printing size A4?
Yes. Please see our Paper page for more details. If you want a different size score or part, please use the contact form or email us for a chat.
What about paper sustainability?
All the paper we use comes from sustainably managed forests and is both FSC Certified for responsible sourcing and ECF Certified (Elemental Chlorine Free process). The white paper we use also carries an EU Ecolabel — awarded for meeting EU environmental criteria.
Can you print colour covers?
Yes.
Can I request a sample before placing an order?
Of course. If you’d like to see and feel the quality of our printing, paper, and binding for yourself, we can arrange a sample. Just get in touch via our contact form or email, let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll put a sample together for you. We’re confident you’ll be impressed by the difference professional optimisation makes.
Binding
What is the difference between saddle stitch and wire binding?
Great question — the right binding depends on how your music will be used. For a full breakdown of both options, please visit our Binding page.
In short:
- Saddle stitch (stapled): A cost-effective option best for shorter scores, orchestral parts and booklets up to 80 pages. Clean, traditional finish that’s easy to handle — ideal for orchestral parts and standalone instrumental music.
- Wire binding (wiro):Â Perfect for music that needs to lie completely flat on a music stand or piano. Sturdy metal wire allows you to fold pages back on themselves. Ideal for longer works and conductor scores. Available in A4, SRA4, B4 and A3.
We’re happy to advise on the best option for your project — just ask.
Orders & Shipping
How quickly do orders ship?
We aim to process and dispatch all orders within 5–10 working days of receipt. Turnaround may be quicker for smaller orders. If you need something urgently, just get in touch — we can often accommodate express requests where possible. All orders are shipped via tracked services, and you’ll receive a confirmation email with your tracking details once dispatched.
How long does international shipping take?
We ship worldwide. Typical delivery times are:
- UK: 1–2 working days (free for orders over £50)
- Europe: 3–7 working days (tracked, from £12.50)
- Rest of the world: 5–12 working days (tracked, from £13.55)
All international orders are sent via tracked services so you can follow your parcel every step of the way. Customs and local handling times may occasionally add a few extra days depending on the destination.
What currencies do you accept?
We accept payments in GBP, USD and EUR. You can change to one of these currencies from the drop-down menu just below the basket in the top right-hand corner.