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Home printing decals - laser vs. inkjet

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  • Member since
    August 2020
  • From: Apex, NC
Home printing decals - laser vs. inkjet
Posted by gomeral on Friday, September 11, 2020 4:08 PM

Hi, all -

First, yes I've read a lot about this topic, and yes, I've read through the forums.  I haven't done an EXHAUSTIVE search, but pretty much everything I've seen is showing me that folks are using inkjet printers.

My questions are specifically:

  1. Do any of you have direct experience printing and using LASER printed decals?
  2. Anyone have experience with BOTH that can share pros/cons/etc.?

From what I've read, laser printed decals don't need to be sealed and are often sharper.  I'm typically a 1:72 scale modeler, so I'm looking at tiny decals, I like the dry toner idea.  Plus, I own a color laser printer already!  (I own an inkjet as well, but it uses 24" wide paper...)  Anyway, anyone have experience and a willingness to share?

  • Member since
    September 2012
Posted by GMorrison on Friday, September 11, 2020 4:13 PM

I've used both and had good results either way. I used to own an $ 11,000 Canon laser printer in my business, before everything became virtual. It made fine decals, with good color correctness. 

I currently own a $ 500 Brother multi-function machine. I'm not as keen on the quality but if I spend a little effort setting it up, it works great.

You definitely want to seal the decals in either case. The trick I find with the ink jet is to let the decals dry before sealing for a long time, like a week.

 

Bill

 Modeling is an excuse to buy books.

 

  • Member since
    November 2009
  • From: Twin Cities of Minnesota
Posted by Don Stauffer on Saturday, September 12, 2020 2:08 PM

I have made both laser printer and inkjet printer decals.  I have a good quality inkjet, a cheap laser, so the inkjet does better quality than the laser.  However, you don't need to wait nearly as long for the laser stuff before sealing.  I usually can get by waiting four days for inkjet if I am careful sealing- a quick first coat and then a second, heavier coat about a half hour later.

 

Don Stauffer in Minnesota

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