Are you considering printing on construction paper but don’t know if this is possible? The truth is printers are usually selective. Thus, you may not get an accurate print if you don’t use the right paper.
The weight, thickness, and size are factors to consider when buying your paper for printing. You must know what kind of paper your printer can handle.
Construction papers are bright and colorful but a little thicker than regular papers. But these qualities combined make them a wise choice for art projects.
Now, here’s the question many have been asking.
Can you print on construction paper?
Yes, it is possible to print on construction paper. An inkjet printer can handle construction paper, but ensure you check the printer’s manual to know if it’s up to the task before using it.
Some construction papers are slightly thicker than standard papers, making them ideal for inkjet printers. But there are critical steps you have to take.
You have to change the settings on the printer to get an accurate print. Remember, the printer comes set for standard papers. So, make the necessary adjustment on the printer to get accurate prints.
Finally, after using your printer on the construction papers, remember to return the settings back to how they were before you start printing on your standard papers.
What Construction Paper Is
Construction paper, also called sugar paper, boasts a slightly rough texture and unfinished surface. This paper is popularly used for crafts and other related projects.
Wood pulp is the primary material used in making this paper. You’ll also discover that construction paper is heavy and stiff.
This colored paper is popularly utilized in schools for arts and crafts projects that involve cutting, drawing, coloring, sketching and pasting. Let’s check out other uses of the construction paper.
Uses of Construction Paper
You can use construction papers for various arts and crafts projects. Here are several things you can do with them.
- Masks
- Posters
- Gift tags
- Bookmarks
- Collage
- finger puppets
- Napkin rings
- Paper sculpture
- Picture mounting
- Weave basket and placemats
- Holiday decorations and ornaments
A Handy Tip: Construction papers look appealing and come in various colors. But bear in mind that this paper fades fast. Have it at the back of your mind whenever you shop for construction paper.
One thing that sets the construction paper apart is that it is inexpensive. So even if you waste several of it during printing or a craft project, your wallet won’t take a hit.
Factors You Must Consider When Printing On Construction Paper
Have you tried printing on construction paper, or you’re planning to do so? If you’re considering it, keep in mind that there are factors you must consider.
Printing on such a paper is a bit tough but doable. However, if you follow the tips we’re about to discuss here, the final print on the construction people would likely be accurate.
So, what factors should you pay attention to when printing on construction paper?
Tip#1: Read the instructional manual first:
Note that there’s a limit to what printers can handle regarding a paper’s weight and size. Putting the wrong type of paper in the printer can cause a paper jam or damage the machine. The final print may also not be accurate too.
So, read the instructional manual of your printer carefully. With this, you can figure out if the machine can handle heavyweight paper, like the construction paper.
After reading the manual, remember that you may have to adjust your printer settings to enable it to print on the construction paper.
Tip#2: The inkjet printer is your best bet:
What type of printer do you have? Is it an inkjet or a laser printer? Choose the inkjet printer if you want to print on construction paper and need a printer that can get the job done.
These printers are a top choice because they can print on various papers, including lightweight construction papers. But keep in mind that you must adjust the printer and the paper.
Trim the construction paper to the ideal size and adjust the printer settings to suit the paper’s measurements before you start printing. Paper handling is another vital thing you need to consider. You have to handle the paper with care to prevent it from jamming.
A Handy Tip: When using an inkjet printing machine, colored construction papers are a wise choice.
Tip#3: Decide what color of construction paper you want to use:
Anyone individual that’s investing their time, ink, and energy to print on a construction paper would want the best result. Unfortunately, you can get an accurate result if you neglect choosing the right color of construction paper.
Note that construction papers boast two groups of colors. These include black and the others (red, yellow, and blue).
Now, here’s a piece of advice for you. Avoid printing on black or colored paper. The colored pictures or other items you’re printing won’t be accurate when printed on colored construction paper.
You can print on light-colored construction paper if you cannot find a white one. But keep in mind that white construction paper remains the best option.
Tip#4: Prepare the construction paper:
Do you have a printer already? If yes, please check for details on the thickness of paper it can handle. What are the maximum and the minimum thickness?
If you know what your printer can handle regarding paper thickness, you can make the right choice.
The size of the construction paper is another factor to consider. The paper measures 9 inches by 12 inches, while the conventional printer can accommodate 8.5 inches by 11 inches. We recommend using this paper size if you’re utilizing an inkjet printer for better results.
To trim the paper to size, which is necessary, use a ruler to measure the paper and cut to shape with your scissors.
Tip#5: Prevent ink wastage:
When printers print on standard papers, they use a lot of ink. But this is worst when you print on construction paper.
Ink replacement is not something any individual would enjoy doing now and then. So the best thing is to take steps to prevent ink wastage.
How do you prevent your construction paper from using up too much ink? This is simple. Start doing all your printings in lower resolutions.
Tip#6: Print one paper at a time:
Don’t be in haste when printing on construction paper. Remember, it is a heavyweight paper, and you need care handling such papers during printing.
So, print one paper at a time. When you print the first one, check if it’s accurate. If it’s not, make the necessary adjustment and continue.
Can You Use Construction Paper In A Laser Printer?
The laser printer handles a massive volume of text printing tasks. Unfortunately, many laser printers don’t possess the option to accommodate other paper materials like construction and cardstock paper.
When you put construction paper on a laser printer, you can experience a paper jam. Keep in mind that the paper can also damage the internal parts of the printing machine.
Conclusion
Can you print on construction paper? Yes, you can. Just ensure you’re using an inkjet printer and make the necessary adjustment in the printer.
Construction paper is thicker than standard paper. So you need to adjust the thickness setting on the printer so it can handle the paper.
Another thing you need to do is to cut the paper to size. Construction paper measures 9 inches by 12 inches. You have to trim it to 8.5 inches by 11.5 inches.
We also mentioned that construction paper shouldn’t be used in a laser printer. The print won’t be accurate when you do so.