9+ Best Printer For Waterslide Decals 2023 | Unrivalled Guide

Waterslide decal paper is a special transparent transfer paper that is useful for transferring images and text to any smooth surface. Very fine prints are also possible. It is commonly found in the craft field, whether for commercial or DIY use.

Unlike in the past, the advent of printable decal paper for color inkjet and laser printers has made it possible for hobbyists to create custom decals.

But is finding the right decal printer for you stressful? Are the questions in your mind left confused? Whether you enjoy DIY as a hobby or are self-employed, this article will be your savior.

Best Printer For Waterslide Decals 2023

What is decal paper?

In addition to using high-quality decal paper, it is also important to use a compatible printer. Water-based decal paper comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is a transparent paper designed to apply images, text, or patterns to a smooth surface.

Also read: Best Printer For Book Printing

The result is an extremely detailed print that is second to none for craftsmen, artists, and hobbyists. Lamination reduces the risk of damage to the watercolor.

Watercolour decal sheets are designed on inkjet printers. They are called slip decals or struck water decals. They are used because the decal paper applied to the surface can be transferred to the remainder of the decal sheet.

The residue of the decal sheet contains glucose, which is the sugar content of corn. Few companies make decal paper for users. However, it is recommended that you use high-quality decal paper to achieve the best results for your artwork.

What Do You Need To Print Waterslides?

To print waterslides, you will need the following:

1. A printer: A color inkjet or laser printer will work best for printing waterslides. It’s important to use a printer that has high-resolution capabilities to ensure that the images and text are clear and crisp.
2. Waterslide decal paper: This special type of paper is used to transfer images and text onto a variety of surfaces, including ceramic, glass, metal, plastic, and wood.
3. Image editing software: You will need a software program that allows you to create or edit images that you want to transfer. Some popular options include Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, and Canva.
4. Scissors or a cutting machine: You will need a way to cut the waterslide decal paper into the desired size and shape. You can use scissors or a cutting machine such as a Cricut or Silhouette.
5. Clear spray sealant: This is an optional but recommended step. After you transfer the waterslide decal to the surface, you can use clear spray sealant to protect the image and extend its lifespan.
6. A flat surface to transfer the decal to: This can be a mug, tumbler, tile, or any other surface that you want to decorate.
7. A bowl of water: You will need to soak the decal in water before transferring it to the surface.
8. Tweezers or a plastic spatula: These will help you to handle the decal and apply it to the surface without causing damage.

Also read: Best Printers For College Students

Best Printer For Waterslide Decals

We know how you feel but fear not because we are going to show you some of the best printers for waterslide decals on the market today and some tips to keep in mind before making your purchase.

Best Printer For Waterslide Decals | Comparison Table 2023

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Top 9+ Picks of Printer For Waterslide Decals | Products Overview

Product Overview:

The HP ENVY 6055e is an all-in-one wireless color printer that is perfect for busy families. It allows you to print, copy, and scan in color and has automatic 2-sided printing for added convenience. The printer also produces borderless photos and has mobile and wireless printing capabilities.

Additionally, the printer comes with 6 months of free Instant Ink and the HP+ smart feature, which includes advanced features for mobile printing, security, automatic updates, and more. To get started, simply use the HP Smart app that guides you step by step through the setup process.

The app also allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone from anywhere. You can even connect the whole family to the printer, as it has self-healing Wi-Fi that helps keep you connected and reduces interruptions. Plus, you can print and scan to and from your cloud accounts such as Dropbox and Google Drive with a few taps.

The printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and may block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry. Periodic firmware updates will help maintain the effectiveness of these measures. The box includes the 223N1A HP ENVY 6055e printer, setup cartridges, regulatory flyer, setup guide, reference guide, and power cord. For information on ink volume and page yield, visit the HP website.

Also read: Best Printers For Art Prints

Product Overview:

The Canon Pixma MG3620 is a wireless all-in-one color inkjet printer that allows you to easily print from your mobile devices such as an iPhone, iPad, Android phone, or tablet. It comes with a variety of powerful printing options including Airprint, Google Cloud Print, NFC, Mopria, and Canon Print.

The printer has a compact and space-saving design, making it easy to fit into any home or office setting. It also has the ability to print on both sides of the page with automatic two-sided printing. In addition to printing, the MG3620 can also be used for copying and scanning.

It has a maximum print speed of 16 pages per minute for color and 9.9 pages per minute for black and white. The printer connects to your devices wirelessly over Wi-Fi and has an easy setup process. It is compatible with Windows operating systems including Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista, as well as Mac OS X v10.7.5 - 10.10. The box includes the MG3620 printer, manuals, and other documents, a setup CD-ROM, FINE cartridges in black and color, and a power cord.

Product Overview:

The Epson EcoTank 2803 Printer is a high-quality, eco-friendly printing solution that is perfect for home use. It features a built-in scanner and photocopier, as well as genuine Epson print quality and a high-resolution flatbed scanner with a color display for easy document copying and navigation. The printer uses Epson's exclusive EcoFit ink bottles for hassle-free ink refills, and the high-capacity ink tanks eliminate the need for tiny, expensive ink cartridges.

The Epson EcoTank 2803 Printer is capable of producing sharp text and impressive color photos and graphics on virtually any paper type, thanks to its Unique Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology. It also has a convenient color display, making it easy to use and navigate. In terms of cost savings, the printer can help you save up to 90% on ink costs compared to traditional ink cartridges, with the potential to print up to 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 in color (equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges).

In addition to its impressive printing capabilities, the Epson EcoTank 2803 Printer is also environmentally friendly. It is ENERGY STAR qualified, RoHS compliant, and a recyclable product. By using an EcoTank printer, you can help reduce the amount of cartridge waste that ends up in landfills. Overall, the Epson EcoTank 2803 Printer is a top choice for anyone looking for a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly printing solution.

Product Overview:

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e is a wireless color all-in-one printer that is suitable for small businesses and home offices. It allows you to print professional-quality documents like forms, reports, brochures, and presentations. The printer has fast print speeds, with the ability to print up to 20 pages per minute in black and 10 pages per minute in color. It also has a range of features including 2-sided printing, mobile and wireless printing, and an auto document feeder. The printer comes with a range of connectivity options, including dual band WiFi which has self-healing capabilities to automatically detect and resolve connection issues. It is also compatible with the HP Smart app, which allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone.

In addition to its core printing capabilities, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e also includes a range of security essentials to protect your sensitive data. These include basic encryption, password protection, WiFi security, and document protection. You also have the option to activate the HP+ Smart Printing System, which provides advanced features such as mobile printing, security, automatic updates, and more. By activating HP+, you will also get a free 6-month subscription to the Instant Ink delivery service, which ensures that you never run out of ink. After the initial 6 months, a monthly fee will apply unless you cancel the service, and you can save up to 50% on ink costs.

The printer comes with a range of supplies in the box, including an HP 910 Setup Black Instant Ink Ready Cartridge, an HP 910 Setup Cyan Instant Ink Ready Cartridge, an HP 910 Setup Magenta Instant Ink Ready Cartridge, and an HP 910 Setup Yellow Instant Ink Ready Cartridge. It also comes with a user guide, a setup poster, and a power cord. For more information on ink volume and page yield, you can visit the HP website.

Product Overview:

The WorkForce WF-7710 is a wireless wide-format color inkjet printer that can print, scan, copy, and fax. It is equipped with PrecisionCore technology, which allows you to produce borderless prints up to 13" x 19" in size.

The 250-sheet paper tray can also hold up to 20 sheets of photo paper or 10 envelopes. It has automatic 2-sided print speeds of 8.7 ppm (ISO) in black and 6 ppm (ISO) in color and a 4.3" color touch screen for easy navigation and control.

It includes wireless printing and networking capabilities, allowing you to print from tablets and smartphones, and has Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, and NFC connectivity. This Epson printer is designed to work only with genuine Epson ink cartridges and some updates may affect the functionality of third-party ink. It has a range of features to make printing more efficient, including a 35-page auto document feeder and rear feed for specialty paper.

It also has energy-saving features, with the ability to reduce power consumption by up to 80% compared to other A3 color laser printers. It is also part of the SmartWay partnership with the US Environmental Protection Agency, which aims to reduce greenhouse gases and improve fuel efficiency.

Product Overview:

The HP ENVY 5055 is a wireless all-in-one photo printer that can print, scan, and copy borderless, high-quality photos and documents with sharp text. It has improved Wi-Fi connectivity and faster print speeds and also includes Bluetooth and Smart capabilities for easy connectivity to your network and mobile devices.

The printer comes with the HP Smart app, which allows you to easily set up your printer, scan documents with your smartphone camera, and print from social media or the cloud. Additionally, the ENVY 5055 offers the option of enrolling in HP Instant Ink, a service that delivers ink to your door for as low as $0.99 per month (subscription required).

This all-in-one printer is compatible with a variety of paper sizes, including letter, legal, 4 x 6 inches, 5 x 7 inches, 8 x 10 inches, and No 10 envelopes. It comes with a 1-year limited hardware warranty and free 24/7 HP Web support. The box includes the printer, HP 65 Setup Black and Tri-color Instant Ink Ready Cartridges, an ink caution flyer, a power cord, a setup guide, and an Instant Ink flyer.

Also read: Best Printers for Occasional Use

Product Overview:

The Epson EcoTank ET-2750 is an all-in-one printer that offers cartridge-free printing with easy-to-fill, supersized ink tanks.

It comes with enough ink to print up to 6,500 pages in black and 5,200 pages in color, which is equivalent to about 30 sets of ink cartridges. The printer also has automatic two-sided printing to save paper, wireless connectivity for printing from mobile devices, and Wi-Fi Direct for printing without a network. It is compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems.

The ET-2750 includes bottles of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow ink in the box. Epson recommends using genuine Epson ink to ensure optimal print quality and performance and warns that the use of non-genuine ink may cause damage not covered by the printer's limited warranty.

Product Overview:

The Canon Pixma PRO-100 is a professional wireless inkjet printer that is designed for high-quality output of photos and graphics. It uses 8 dye-based inks, including 3 dedicated grayscale inks, to produce vivid and accurate color reproduction.

The Optimum Image Generating (OIG) System analyzes each area of the print and selects the optimal ink mixture to ensure that the colors in the print match what you envision. The printer also has a high resolution of up to 4800 x 2400 dots per inch and can print on various media sizes up to 13 inches x 19 inches. It has connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB and features two paper trays, including a rear tray for fine art and glossy photo papers and a manual slot for thicker media.

The printer also has a number of advanced technologies, including Canon's Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering (FINE) and the Chroma Optimizer, which help to produce professional-quality prints with smooth tonal gradations, low graininess, and uniform glossiness.

Also read: Home Printer With Lowest Ink Cost

Product Overview:

The Epson Stylus Photo R2000 is a wireless wide-format color inkjet printer that offers a range of advanced features for enhanced creativity and productivity. It boasts industry-leading pigment ink technology in the form of Epson UltraChrome Hi-Gloss 2 ink, which produces colorful, vibrant prints with beautiful skin tones and a smooth, glossy finish. The printer also has individual, larger ink cartridges that need to be changed less frequently and can yield up to 50% more prints.

In terms of media versatility, the R2000 can accommodate both cut-sheet and roll paper in sizes up to 13 inches wide and is capable of printing on a variety of surfaces including photographic and fine art paper, canvas, 1.3 mm thick board, and inkjet printable CD/DVDs. The printer also has unparalleled connectivity options, including Hi-Speed USB 2.0, wireless 802.11n, and 100 Mbit Ethernet support, making it easy to print from any location.

In addition, the R2000 features a unique auto-selecting black ink function that allows for optimal black density and superior contrast on glossy and matte/fine art papers using either matte/photo black ink. With its impressive range of capabilities, the Epson Stylus Photo R2000 is an excellent choice for photographers and artists looking to take their creativity to the next level.

How To Choose The Water-based Decal Printer | Detailed Buying Guide 2023

When choosing the best printer for water-based seals, you know that not all printers are the same. Each has its own features and specifications. Here are some tips for choosing a water decal printer.

Customer Needs

This is the first thing to consider before making a purchase. If your decal printing needs are only occasional, we recommend sticking with a local store to do the job.

It makes no sense to spend extra money on features you don't need. The more sophisticated the functionality, the more expensive it is and the higher the maintenance and running costs.

Therefore, if you need it for regular use, whether for pleasure or work, only then should you decide to purchase it.

Also read: Best Printers For Posters

Printing speed

For water-based decals, printer speed is critical. You need a machine that can get the job done quickly. You don't want it to break down or stop working in the middle of a job. This is annoying.

It depends on the amount of work. If your needs are high, you need a reliable device. But you may have to invest in a slightly more expensive machine. However, buying a cheap printer can slow down your work.

Resolution

The resolution of a water-based decal printer is the most important part of any machine. Having a high-performance unit is a great advantage for the cause. Using a high resolution can greatly improve the detail of a decal.

With a printer, you can print text at a resolution of 1200x1200 dpi. For medium-sized images, a resolution of 4800x1200 dpi can be used to achieve the desired effect for the artwork.

Also read: Best Printer For Home Use With Cheap Ink

Paper Support

The printer must have sufficient paper support. In addition, it should be able to support a variety of print media types and sizes. Indeed, if you are going to have your document designed using a variety of sizes, it must be able to do so.

This may be the case if you are a professional decal designer and want to have great images. The type of printer should be able to handle at least medium to high volume paper.

Budget

The price of the printer you are considering is also important. You may think that a special machine is the only way to go because it has top-notch specs. Additionally, you can take advantage of the operations it offers.

It also costs a little more in terms of features. However, a mid-priced machine can get the job done effectively. However, it depends on the type of workload, resolution, and configuration that the user requires.

Quality, functionality, and specifications

Make sure the target device supports printing on decal paper. It is always wise to choose a model that can handle a variety of paper sizes to reduce paper waste for small print runs. The higher the resolution, the finer and more vibrant the results will be.

It makes no sense to choose a printer with a very fast print speed when your printing needs are only occasional and personal. Choose a decent speed and do not compromise quality.

You can choose between inkjet and laser printers, but color laser printers are too expensive. Inkjet printers are probably the best choice for all needs, whether color or monochrome.

Also read: Best Canon Printers For Home

Reviews and Ratings

It is always a good idea to research before you buy, check its specifications, and understand its performance. The best sources of information are customer ratings and reviews to learn about the pros and cons of a product.

Once you identify the pros and cons, you can confidently choose the best water-seal printer. Studying reviews can also help you spot flaws and defects, and if they are essential, you can avoid that model.

Maintenance Costs

Finally, appliances must be within budget and cost-effective. You should be able to get the best product at the least cost. In addition, water slide decal paper will increase costs due to ink changes and increased power consumption.

Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the paper and ink for the target model are readily available and inexpensive. Machines with energy-saving features are always a plus. Also, check for maintenance and services offered by suppliers and other sources.

Printer For Waterslide Decals  2023 | Video Explanation

Best Printer For Waterslide Decals 2023 | Infographic

FAQS About The Best Printers For Water Decals

What Kind Of Printer Do I Need To Make Water Decals?

To print decals, an inkjet printer must be used. They give a great job. However, users have told us that inkjet printers are sometimes very convenient. So you need to make sure that the printer you choose can meet your needs.

To do this, you need to check if the inkjet printer supports the appropriate paper size, if it supports water-based decal designs, and if it is durable enough. Decal printers are affordable, but if handled with care, some can last 10 years or more.

Can Any Printer Print Decals?

We found that the Epson WorkForce WF-7710 printer can handle water-based decals without any problems. Of course, the other printers on our list are exceptional.

To be able to print decals effortlessly, you will need a compatible PC or smartphone.

Often, users tend not to check the compatibility of their PCs or smartphones with their printers. This results in unnecessary problems and confusion. Printers on the market are designed to work with most operating systems and smartphones, but it is best to check.

Can You Do Waterslide With Inkjet Printer?

Yes, you can use an inkjet printer to print on waterslide decal paper, which is a type of transfer paper that can be used to apply images to various surfaces, such as ceramics, glass, metal, and plastic. The process of using an inkjet printer to print on waterslide decal paper involves the following steps:

1. Choose the right type of decal paper: Make sure you choose waterslide decal paper that is specifically designed for use with inkjet printers.
2. Print your design: Print your design onto the decal paper using an inkjet printer. Be sure to use high-quality inkjet ink, as the color quality and durability of the decal will depend on the quality of the ink used.
3. Cut out the decal: Cut out your design from the decal paper, being careful to leave a small border around the image.
4. Soak the decal: Soak the decal in water for a few minutes, until it begins to separate from the backing paper.
5. Apply the decal: Slide the decal onto the surface you wish to apply it to, and use a squeegee or soft brush to smooth out any air bubbles.
6. Seal the decal: Once the decal is in place, let it dry completely, and then apply a clear sealer to protect the image.

Using an inkjet printer to print on waterslide decal paper is a simple and affordable way to create custom decals for a variety of projects. Just be sure to use high-quality ink and decal paper, and follow the instructions carefully to achieve the best results.

How Do I Print Water-based Decals?

It is also important to know how to best print decals on your printer. Printing decals is not a difficult process. First, you need to make sure that your watercolor paper is set to a high print quality photo paper print setting.

It is also important to print on paper. Therefore, make sure that the printing paper used for watercolor decals is of good quality. After printing on water decal paper, it is best to wait 5 minutes before allowing it to dry before proceeding to the next step.

How Can I Protect My Watercolor Decals?

It is also important to protect watercolor stickers so that they do not lose their quality. Decals and surfaces can be spray-coated. Accuracy is a must. It is best to use a reliable sprayer, as it is not worth taking unnecessary risks.

The coating spray must not contain very aggressive chemicals. Otherwise, problems with the decal may occur. It is best to apply a thin coat at first, let it dry, and then reapply several times.

Is The Best Water-based Decal Printer Worth The Price?

As I said earlier, it would be much easier if any printer could print these wonderful decals. Unfortunately, this is not true. It takes some commitment to purchase the best decal printer.

If you run a small business or a company whose livelihood depends on it, we recommend that you purchase the printer described in the above article. This will allow you to use the decals without any loss whatsoever.

Can You Print Waterslide Decals With A Cricut?

No, you cannot print water slide decals with a Cricut. The Cricut is a cutting machine that can cut a wide variety of materials, but it does not have the capability to print. If you want to create water slide decals, you will need to use a separate printer specifically designed for this purpose, such as an inkjet printer. After printing the decals, you will need to apply them to the surface of your choice and then clearcoat them to protect the print.

Why Is My Waterslide Paper Ripping?

There could be several reasons why your water slide decal paper is ripping:

1. Incorrect Printer Settings: Ensure that your printer is set to the correct paper type and weight, as well as the correct ink type. Some decal papers require a specific type of ink, such as dye or pigment, and others may require a specific type of printer, such as an inkjet.
2. Poor Quality Paper: Make sure that you are using high-quality water slide decal paper that is specifically designed for use with printers. Some decal papers are not compatible with certain printers, which can result in poor print quality or paper damage.
3. Excessive Moisture: Make sure that you are applying the decal paper to your surface with a minimum amount of moisture, as excessive moisture can cause the paper to rip or wrinkle.
4. Rough Surfaces: If you are applying the decal to a rough surface, this can cause the paper to tear. Try to find a smoother surface or use a clearcoat over the decal to protect it.
5. Paper Storage: Store your decal paper in a cool, dry place, and away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and humidity can cause the paper to become brittle, making it more susceptible to tearing.

If you are still having trouble with your decal paper ripping, consider trying a different brand or type of decal paper or reaching out to the manufacturer for further assistance.

How Do You Seal Inkjet Waterslides?

Sealing inkjet water slide decals helps to protect the ink from fading, smudging, or peeling, and to give the decals a smooth and glossy finish. Here are the steps to seal inkjet water slide decals:

1. Allow the decals to dry completely: After printing the decals, allow them to dry completely before applying any sealant. This will help to prevent smudging or smearing of the ink.
2. Choose a clearcoat: Select a clearcoat that is compatible with both the surface to which you will be applying the decals and the type of ink you used for printing. There are several types of clearcoats available, including spray-on clearcoats, brush-on clearcoats, and dip-and-dry clearcoats.
3. Apply the clearcoat: Follow the instructions for the clearcoat you have chosen, and apply it evenly and thinly over the surface of the decals. Take care not to apply too much clearcoat, as this can cause bubbles or an uneven surface.
4. Allow the clearcoat to dry: Allow the clearcoat to dry completely, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will typically take a few hours, depending on the type of clearcoat and the ambient temperature and humidity.
5. Trim the decals: Once the clearcoat is dry, you can trim the decals to the desired size and shape. You can use scissors, a craft knife, or a cutting machine to do this.
6. Apply the decals: Finally, apply the decals to the surface of your choice, following the instructions provided with the water slide decal paper.

Note: Some clearcoats can change the appearance or texture of the decals, so it is always a good idea to test a small area first before applying the clearcoat to the entire decal.

Conclusion:

In this article, we will recommend water-based decal printers to eliminate any doubts you may have when purchasing a water-based decal printer.

We hope that by considering these examples and a few pointers, your purchase quest will be easier than it was a few minutes ago.

Whatever the reason for your purchase, business or personal, you can finally dip your feet into the printer pool and start creating!