Inkjet Printing Now Available at AHC!
Our recent acquisition of a new small format inkjet printer with high-capacity ink bags enables us to print on a wider scope of papers. Inkjet printers use small nozzles to spray ink droplets directly onto paper and card stock making them ideal for textured papers, which is a common request at our studio. After the inkjet installation, we've enhanced our range of papers with more textured and embossed papers, as well as, wildflower seed paper, grass paper, wheat paper, cartridge paper and a wider range of 100% cotton papers such as Somerset Enhanced.
What are the benefits of inkjet printing?
1) We can print on very textured papers with excellent ink coverage. Laser printers struggle with textured papers and often result in 'pitting' which are gaps in the print where the paper is uneven/textured.
2) You'll get a beautiful matte finish to the print. When utilising uncoated papers in a laser printer, the toner powder is baked onto the surface which gives the finished print a glossy sheen. With inkjet printing, the ink has a matte finish which complements the matte finish of the uncoated paper. This works especially well when combined with foil stamping, because the foil contrasts beautifully with the matte finish of the print.
3) Perfectly even solids. Laser printers struggle with variations in the print due to banding and streaking. This often makes it difficult to print large solid areas of cover with perfectly even coverage. Inkjet printers don't have this problem and will print sheet after sheet with even coverage.
4) It's more environmentally friendly. Conserving heat is a great way to minimize our impact on the environment. Inkjet printing is heat-free technology and can be up to 90% more energy efficient than laser technology depending on the type, make and model of the printer. Experts at the University of Cambridge revealed that a worldwide switch across all laser and inkjet models would cut energy emissions by 52.6%.
Which is better inkjet or laser?
While both have their advantages: Laser printers print much faster and sharper defined images, but generally have more variation in print quality and colour. Inkjet printers produce more consistent colours and less variation in print quality but are slower than laser printers with less defined images. Although both printers have their advantages, our knowledgeable team will be able to advise which is better for your project.