"Let's Get to the Good Part" - Printers!
In my last post, we went over ways to evaluate your current printer needs and factors to consider if you thinking about purchasing a printer for your book binding needs. Today, I'm going to reveal the printers I've used over the last several years in my shop. Of course, I'm sure there are other printers on the market that could meet your needs. But, when I surveyed my audience, they were interested in my "secrets".
Please know these are all my own opinions, based on my experiences. Do your own research and purchase what best suits your needs and budget.*
HP® OfficeJet Pro 9025e
The printer I have used the most in my business is the HP® OfficeJet Pro 9025. I have since upgraded to the 9025e. The two main reasons this printer is my favorite is, one, it prints to the edge, even on on non-standard papers sizes (alternate tray only). And two, it prints great quality, color prints and is fast for an inkjet.
I know what you're thinking, ink jet? Why not laser? Because I like to print on a lot of non-standard print materials. I have a better chance of good results with an ink jet than a laser printer. Plus, with a good bypass tray, the options are endless on the materials you can print. (Well, not exactly endless, but up to the dimensions and thickness of the machine.) Laser machines use heat to print and that limits the materials you can use. Laser printers also DO NOT print to the edge. And toner does not stick well to all papers, only papers specifically made to withstand the heat.
All the drawing papers I sold in my shop were printed on this printer and one other HP®, that I will profile next. Here are a few specs of this printer: All printing is done wirelessly. It prints from 3" x 5" up to 8.5" x 14". I printed the 8.5" x 12" and 6" signatures using the bypass tray. It also has a main tray, that prints standard papers as well. It can auto duplex, in the tray, from the main tray only. Since it is also an all-in-one, you can also copy, scan and fax.
I also used the HP Ink® program to purchase all ink. I like the fact that I never have to go buy ink or keep up with the levels. They monitor it via WiFi and ship the ink before you run out. I feel it's worth the fee. Just pick a level that suits your current printing needs, you can also upgrade as needed. If anyone has questions about the program, you can message me.
Next Up, the HP® OfficeJet Pro 7740 Wide Format
If you know you want to be able to print 11" x 17", then this is the all-in-one you're looking for. I added this printer to my collection when I starting selling 11" x 17" signatures. It's a fabulous printer., with wireless printing, and duplexing in the tray. With two 11" x 17" trays, it is a dream printer. The only big con for me was, it did not print to edge, except on 11" x 17" documents. So, I could not print my 12" or 6" to-the-edge signatures on this printer. I did use it to print those sizes, just not to-the-edge.
It is also an all-in-one, with copy, scan and fax options. And I was surprised how much I used the 11 x 17 scanning bed. It really came in handy. (I don't currently have one since I no longer use it for business. But writing this post make me want to get another one.) It is not eligible for the HP Ink® program, but this printer is no ink hog. I purchased the XL ink cartridges and they lasted for months. It does have a large footprint, so plan accordingly.
Epson® WorkForce WF-7210 (now the WF-7310)
This is my fun, crafting printer. It prints up to 13" x 19". It has two trays that hold full 13" x 19" sheet of paper. The rear tray is where it really shines. You can run sheets up to 50+ inches long and 13"wide. And it takes thick papers, handmade papers, cardstock; most anything you throw its way. I have even run unwashed Kraft Tex through the rear tray. I always like to keep an Epson® in-house, at all times. I love HP®, but nothing surpasses Epson® when it comes to full color, photo printing, in my opinion. And they play really well with Mac OS, which is very important to me, since I only use Apple® products.
In a pinch, or during the busy season, this guy would be roped into printing signatures. It's definitely the slowest in the bunch, but the quality is on point.
Epson® EcoTank® Pro ET-16650 Wide Format
For about a week, I did own one of these printers. It was a beautiful machine. I purchased it before the HP® wide format listed above. It did not work for my needs at the time because it did not duplex 11" x 17" in the tray and it did not print to the edge. They have since tweaked this printer and added new features, so I can't speak to its qualities at present. I do feel that ink tank printers are worth looking into and I would consider buying one with my next printer purchase.
If you're made it this far, you must be a printer nerd like me. Congrats! Seriously though, if you have any questions about any of these printers or others, let me know.
Happy Book Binding!
P.S. I have never owned a Canon® or Brother® printer, so I can't speak to their quality.
*Also, I am not an HP® , Epson® or Apple® affiliate. However, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
All printer photos courtesy of HP® and Epson®
