Whether you’re a professional graphic designer or a craft enthusiast, having a reliable printer for card making is essential in creating high-quality and personalized cards. With the advancement of technology, printers nowadays come in various shapes and sizes, making it challenging to choose the right one. In this article, we’ll discuss the best printers for card making in 2023 that will suit your budget and printing needs.
What to Consider When Choosing a Printer for Card Making
Before we dive into the different printers available in the market, it’s essential to know what to consider when choosing a printer for card making. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
1. Print Quality
The print quality is crucial in card making as it determines the clarity and color accuracy of the image. Look for a printer that can print in high resolution and has a wide color gamut to ensure that your cards’ colors are vibrant and accurate.
2. Paper Handling
Card making requires different types of paper, from thick cardstock to glossy photo paper. Make sure that the printer you choose can handle different paper sizes and weights to avoid paper jams and misfeeds.
3. Connectivity
Choose a printer that has flexible connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet, so you can print your designs from multiple devices.
4. Cost
The cost of the printer should match your budget. Keep in mind that the initial cost of the printer may not include the cost of ink cartridges and paper.
Top Printers for Card Making in 2023
1. Canon PIXMA TS8320
The Canon PIXMA TS8320 is an all-in-one printer that can print, scan, and copy. It prints high-quality images with a maximum resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi and has six individual ink cartridges that produce stunning colors. It also has a 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen and supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity. The Canon PIXMA TS8320 is priced at around $150.
2. Epson SureColor P600
The Epson SureColor P600 is a top-of-the-line printer that’s perfect for professional card makers. It has a maximum resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi and uses nine UltraChrome HD ink cartridges that produce accurate and vibrant colors. It also supports various paper sizes and weights, including cardstock and fine art paper. The Epson SureColor P600 is priced at around $800.
3. HP Envy 6055
The HP Envy 6055 is a budget-friendly all-in-one printer that’s perfect for beginner card makers. It prints high-quality images with a maximum resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi and uses two ink cartridges that produce crisp and clear colors. It also has a 2.2-inch touchscreen and supports Wi-Fi and USB connectivity. The HP Envy 6055 is priced at around $130.
4. Brother MFC-J5330DW
The Brother MFC-J5330DW is an all-in-one printer that can handle different paper sizes up to 11 x 17 inches. It prints high-quality images with a maximum resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi and uses four individual ink cartridges that produce vivid colors. It also supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. The Brother MFC-J5330DW is priced at around $250.
Tips for Printing Cards
Printing cards requires a different technique than printing documents. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
1. Use the Right Paper
Cardstock is the best paper type for printing cards as it’s thick and durable. It also absorbs ink better, resulting in sharper and more vibrant colors. Make sure to choose the right cardstock weight and texture that suits your design.
2. Adjust the Printer Settings
Adjust the printer settings to match the paper type and size to avoid misfeeds and paper jams. You can also adjust the print quality and color saturation to achieve the desired effect.
3. Let the Ink Dry
Let the ink dry completely before folding or cutting the cards to avoid smudging or bleeding. You can also use a hairdryer on the cool setting to speed up the drying process.
Conclusion
Choosing the right printer for card making can be a challenging task, but with the right knowledge and research, you can find the perfect one for your needs. Consider the print quality, paper handling, connectivity, and cost when selecting a printer. The Canon PIXMA TS8320, Epson SureColor P600, HP Envy 6055, and Brother MFC-J5330DW are some of the best printers for card making in 2023 . Remember to use the right paper, adjust the printer settings, and let the ink dry to achieve the best results.
