Hello All, Which inkjet printers work for making decals? I have a newer Epson but from what I read the new Epson inks don’t work very well. I just tried to print some decals and the color was funky and smeared easily. Not looking for a professional printer, just something that I can do the occasional printing on.
I know ALPS are suppose to be good, but looking to spend a little less.
Thanks.
I have used a variety of HP printers over the years for printing decals. None were acquired specifically for that purpose–generally they were just the cheap printer that came with the computer I was using. Had excellent results with all but one of them, which produced results like yours–bad color, ink that beaded up and smeared, etc. (I assumed that the “bad one” just used different, incompatible ink formulas, for whatever reason.)
Currently using an HP Deskjet F4280 (with Inkfarm remanufactured cartridges, no less), and the results have been great. (Samples here).
The upshot is, cheap printers can do a great job.
I use an inexpensive Epson XP-200; it uses DURABrite pigmented ink and I overcoat with clear sprayed on acrylic lacquer - Krylon usually. Haven’t had ‘smudging’ problems.
It’s the Epson Claria ink that does not work well. It acts like it is printing on a waxed surface. The ink beads and wipes right off the paper. Just got an old HP 7350 from a friend. Needs ink (ordered some from inkfarm) As soon as I get the new cartridges, I will let you know how it works out.
It is more than just brand- many brands use different inks in different models. Last time I bought a printer specifically for making decals I made sure I could bring it back if I didn’t like it, tried some test decals as soon as I got it set up. It worked fine. That was a cheap HP. I have done tests on my latest printer, a large format high quality Epson. Found it also makes great decals. Only way to know for sure is to do test.
BTW, that cheap HP I bought for decals lasted a few weeks past its warranty and then went belly up. Glad I found that my good Epson makes okay decals 
That all depends on the decal paper you’re using. There are 2 kinds decal paper - inkjet and laser. if you’re using decal paper for laser printers on an inkjet printer, it ain’t gonna work.
The paper is for inkjets. Verified. The ink for the HP should be here tomorrow so I will check it out then.
I have a cheap HP printer. I have found that I get varying results with the type of inkjet decal paper. I have not had much luck with Testor’s. It tends to run after I’ve printed and sprayed it with bonder. Another type (I’m missing a label) works fine, but is a bit thick.
If anyone has any recommendations for inkjet paper besides Testor’s, please let me know.
Gary
I use the stuff from Micro Mark. It is price-competitive with other good decal papers. A google search for inkjet decal paper yielded quite a few hits and I have tried several of those successfully too, but the MM stuff is a known quality for me.
UPDATE:
The HP Photosmart printer I got with the inkfarm cartridges works GREAT! Printed out the decals and they look great. Just got done sealing them so they are drying. Thanks to all who replied.
I can also highly recommend “Experts Choice” papers from BareMetal Foil. They’re available from a number of online hobby vendors as well as direct from the manufacturer.
Wolfman_63 - Glad the new printer/ink setup seems to be working. Be sure to post some pics when your project is completed.