Printing greeting cards on the Canon Pixma PRO-200 inkjet printer. Choosing the right card type

[@amywellerart]

Thank you so much Keith, was just about to waste my money on cheap paper that would have given me terrible results for my greeting cards! I was really shocked to see the huge difference in print quality, but then you do get what you pay for. I’ve just been to the website of the paper you recommend and I’m thrilled to see that they do free samples! Going to order some free samples and see which paper I like best. Thank you so much!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - glad it was of help. The cheap card is not always bad - just unpredictable ;-)

[@amywellerart]

@@KeithCooper thank you Keith! That’s true - I’ve used cheap card for things before that has given me amazing results, for example, I bought a pack of 100 sheets of card for around £5.00 which makes fabulous backing cards to protect my prints. So for some things cheap card can be excellent 👍🏻

[@stanb8977]

Thanks Keith. Your videos are always great.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks

[@GardeningForProfit]

Thank goodness I stumbled across your channel. Incredible information and detail. I have subscribed to your channel as I can't afford to miss future videos

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - much appreciated. New vids tomorrow (printing) and Monday (a lens review)

[@ytubsave307]

After numerous attempts and methodologies over the years, I have found a very successful method for making cards here in the U.S. First, the software I use is an old standby called The Print Shop (Broderbund). It has been around for years (can be a bit finicky) and has been updated, somewhat, over that time. I run the MAC version. For paper I found, at one of our chain Office Supply stores (Staples), 8.5 X 11 inch "Ultra Premium Matte Photo Paper". It is 61lb. (11 mil) printable on either side (which is the key). The software has card templates or you can create your own. It has images, borders, graphics....to choose from or you can import your own. I export the project as a PDF file, print the outside, then reverse the paper (orient properly) and print the inside. I use the 8.5x11 "borderless" setting to the Canon Pro-100 so it prints without any borders. Works like a charm once you know the few tricks. I also purchase envelopes separately which are readily available on the internet to fit the card size (folded in half).

[@KeithCooper]

Ah, now there's software I've not heard of for years - good to see it's still going. No luck here as yet getting double sided cards - If I find some I can make a custom ICC profile, which really makes a difference with image quality. This is an ongoing problem in the more fine-art side of card repro, but obviously doesn't matter for a lot of people.

[@ytubsave307]

@@KeithCooper..... Yes, well the software is barely still going despite supposedly being updated. It can be a bit "glitchy" at times and has rather basic features. The "print output" feature is a pain and buggy, at least the Mac version, but I get around that by using the project-file export function and using my computer functions to print to my Canon printers. As far as paper for cards, there are a number of brands that have two-sided heavier weight stock similar to the one I use. PPD Inkjet Super Premium Photo Paper Pearl Luster Satin DOUBLE-SIDED 70lb. 290gsm 10.7mil A4 is one of them....on Amazon.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks for the info, much appreciated

[@rogerwalton8160]

Another very useful video - thank you Keith. I obtained a test pack of Pinnacle's Cards and they look really good but, unfortunately, they don't have profiles for my Epson 700 so I guess I'll have to get the same surface sheets of paper from them and have custom profiles made. More bother than I really wanted so I might just stick with Fotospeed cards!

[@KeithCooper]

Which card - I might have profiled the paper when I was testing the p700 and p900 (profiles are identical for these two printers)

[@rogerwalton8160]

Cotton Rag Bright White 310gsm, Fine Art Baryta 300 gsm, Photo Glossy 240gsm, Premium Semi-gloss 300 gsm. @@KeithCooper

[@KeithCooper]

Not ones I covered I'm afraid. I do know the papers though... The cotton rag will be very similar to the Epson bright white smooth art, the baryta very similar to Epson TPP (or baryta), the 240 gloss very similar to Epson PGPP and the semi gloss very similar to Epson PSGPP Remember - there are only so many papermakers/coaters out there ;-) These are what I'd use - they are cards after all, not fine art masterpiece prints - At this size, close is usually good enough. I have profiled some papers for cards and it can make a difference if the paper is not close to an Epson one, but not often that much at this size - it's partly why I made the test image mentioned in this video.

[@rogerwalton8160]

@@KeithCooper Thanks Keith.

[@lisalange4922]

@Keith Cooper Hey Keith, I have been looking at this printer and of course ran directly to your reviews...I am a crafter and will need to print on white Cardstock. I was drawn to this because it can do 12 x 12, but of course need the print quality to be better than what you showed on the greeting card...maybe the greeting card vs cardstock are very different types..but thought i would ask Lisa from Everton, Arkansas

[@KeithCooper]

Ah, 'cardstock'... covers such a range of quality and suitability for inkjet printing ;-) Basically, results are unpredictable unless the card is specifically coated for inkjet use. If it's the wrong card, you can tweak settings as much as you like and it will not look good. Even moving to pigment inks won't make much difference if the card is unsuitable. The inks used in traditional printing are very different to what goes in a desktop printer - the only way is to test or ask the card manufacturer

[@lisalange4922]

@@KeithCooper thank you...I will look around and do some homework..

[@vingving3193]

Amazing video ❤❤

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks!

[@kathrynleonard8396]

Hi Keith thanks for the info. Would you recommend the 200 or 300 for a greeting card business expanding into wholesale and serious about it. I’ve seen the 200 is faster to print so I’m not sure which is more valuable to my business. Obviously quality is important but also speed and cost if inks.. any advice welcomed. Thank you

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks Unfortunately, neither - both are home printers with small ink carts. Fine for one-off's and a few cards now and again, but utterly useless for any significant volume. If I had to print 15 cards, I'd have an hour of my time spent by the printer... There simply isn't a small printer i'd recommend given you say "business expanding into wholesale and serious about it". Not to say there isn't one, just that I've never seen one... Look at commercial print - this is the sort of stuff where you print multiples on larger sheets of card and cut afterwards

[@Lancat89]

Hi Keith thank you for your videos. I wanted to ask do you have one on adjusting the composition of the image to fit the card size?

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks I don't - that's just cropping/resizing in Photoshop for me. I do have a bit more detail at www.northlight-images.co.uk/greeting-card-paper-and-printing/

[@ohmyjesus89]

Hello. I'm trying to research a new printer that will take thick cardstock up to 300 gsm. Could you recommend what I should look for. Thanks

[@KeithCooper]

Nothing in particular - I only test certain types of printers - Any time I see the word 'cardstock' appear, I'm also prepared for the worst. It causes all sorts of problems in that much of it is not suitable for inkjet printers, producing dull washed out colours. See here for a suggestion from Epson when I asked about cards www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-wf-c8690-printer-review/

[@mzzbevcreates]

I just found this video and find it very helpful, thank you. Could you please provide the link to the Canon software you use for the Canon Pro 200 (that's the printer I have too). Thank you!

[@KeithCooper]

It's on Canon web sites - go to the support section whatever region/country you are in

[@mzzbevcreates]

@@KeithCooper ok, thank you

[@pinkbirdembroidery8281]

Hi! Great video I found it very helpful. Thank you :)

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - glad it was of interest

[@junkiego]

I've been watching some of your videos about this printer, they're very insightful. I noticed you have some prints on your wall, which is something I like to do, but I usually use sticky paper and it damages my prints. What are you using? Thank you :)

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks The prints in this are using masking tape folded into a loop, giving a double sided tape BUT the prints in these videos only have to stay up for the duration of recording - these older videos were shot in my kitchen ;-) For my current videos, they are pinned to the wall - they are 'spare' prints from my printer testing, so not really worthy of proper mounting

[@janhannah9444]

Hi Keith, thanks so much for your informative videos. I’ve just bought a canon pro 200 printer for the purpose of making A3 prints from my paintings which I will sign and sell. I am from U.K. but live in Portugal therefore the price I can sell for here will be far lower than U.K. (by the way I know very little about printers) I’ve had a look on the canon website for card around 200-300 weight but costing out individual prints is still quite expensive and I have to be realistic about what will sell. Would you have any recommendations for quality suitable card at lower costs? Thanks a lot, Jan

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks In the UK I'd suggest the likes of PermaJet, Fotospeed and Paper Spectrum for card, but obviously that's stuff to buy in the UK, not export. No idea of costs though, but it needs to be card meant for inkjet use not 'cardstock'

[@janhannah9444]

@@KeithCooper thanks very much

[@burnsideart47]

What app would you recommend for using with an iPad to set up card for printing. Every time I try the printer overrides the app and the image will be in the wrong place.

[@KeithCooper]

None I'm afraid - iPads are of no real use for printing of any quality or reliability. See the [free] Canon PPL software I used in the main [written] review [Mac and Win only] www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-200-printer-review/

[@louisebedford1044]

Hi Keith, really loved the video! Could you like the card blanks you recommend? Thank you!

[@KeithCooper]

There are quite a few types available - these come from a local supplier (paper spectrum) in Leicester, UK. The key is to get card that is specifically meant for inkjet printing. They look fine - not sure what you mean by 'like' here?

[@georgeyjung350]

cheers mate, anymore vids for the pro 200? canvass prints a double sised, also sheaper carrtriges lol thanks mate

[@KeithCooper]

Canvas is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJfZpIV-aryapNE Double sided is simply using DS media and swapping the sheet over and remembering which side to add a bigger margin if binding sheets together ;-) See all my collected pro-200 info at www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-200-printer-review/

[@georgeyjung350]

@@KeithCooper thanks mate big help, have same printer so most ur vids are good for me keep it up ur a good man and cover all ;points, i just wanted to do some fake money for kids to play with if u gwet me look a litttle real anyway lol, thanks mate, also this canon inks are like £90 and i can only find on amazon, do u no what other cartridges work with the pro 200 pls mate ive been stuck on this for ages, u be such a big help, im thinking of buying smaller cheaper printer for my stickers as i dont need canon qual or ink cost lol so if u no any other inks i can use be much appreciated mate also if best to go for cheaper printer for stickers ect, unless find cheaper cartridges... thank you mate appreciate reply as always, carlos

[@KeithCooper]

For cheaper to run - see my Canon G550 review and videos I never test or recommend 3rd party inks, so can't help there at all - I don't even know if they are available yet. This one place to look if you don't mind trying such ink www.octoink.co.uk/kb/questions/237/Canon+Pro-200%2C+Pro-300+printers+%5BCompatible+inks%2C+refill+tools+and+chip+resetters%5D It would seem they are not currently (end 2021) available

[@hollyhudson-smith6197]

Hi Keith, thank you so much for your videos. They are so helpful. I am struggling to find the minimum print size for borderless - do you know if the Pro 200 prints borderless on A5?

[@KeithCooper]

A5 is a listed borderless size - see the specifications in the main [written] review www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-200-printer-review/

[@hollyhudson-smith6197]

@@KeithCooper Thank you so much

[@danh9453]

I’ve just come across the channel and finding it very useful for my current printer hunting, so thank you! I was wondering what printer you would recommend for mainly vector based (matte) prints, printing say around 30-40 A4/A3 full colour a day? I’m trying to find the right balance between initial outlay and running ink costs.

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it's of help! I don't really do that sort of printing when testing, but it doesn't' usually stretch printer specs as much as photos (if you get the colour management and media choices right in your workflow). At that volume and image type, one of the large ink tank printers will probably suit you better. I've not reviewed any of this sort (I hope to get an Epson 8550 to test at some point). Any balance depends on the profitability of your product and the volumes needed of different prints - you are in a tricky area where the costs of your time actually making the prints could be a significant factor as well. It all depends on your business model...

[@danh9453]

@@KeithCooper Thanks for the reply. I've done some research on the Epson 7750, not the 8550 so I will check that one out thank you. I agree RE time, it's something I am trying to factor in with costings, albeit rough estimates at this stage until a printer is selected and timings can be fully worked out during test prints.

[@pauldavies3528]

Hi Keith. Excellent videos and information. I don't know f you can advise on a printer for me to purchase. I am a general printer and looking for an A3 printer for general business cards etc. Is there a printer out there that will print between 300gsm and 350gsm automatically from the top feeder. The quality does not need to be photo quality, but don't want to use specific inject paper because of cost. It needs to be a tank printer also. I have looked at the Cannon pixima pro 200 and the .Epson ET_ 8550, but cannot find good info on continuous feed from top infeed trays. Many thanks Paul

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks, but I have a 20 year review policy of never making recommendations... This was one of Epson's suggestions when I asked, and is the only printer I've tested so far that really addresses the 'bulk feed question' for business use www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-wf-c8690-printer-review/ The printers you mention are both for light home use ...and that does not include stacking up thicker media to feed

[@nazlibrush]

Hi there! how often do you use Canon Pixma Pro 200. I am having trouble fo find an ink cartages for the printer? do you have any recommendations?

[@KeithCooper]

There are distinct shortages, but I've got some carts directly from Canon UK. I've no other suggestions though I'm afraid

[@LindaWisdomphotography]

Hi Keith, what is the maximum card weight the Canon Pro 200 can take? I prefer using 300gsm type card generally for greeting card purposes as not flimsy.

[@KeithCooper]

it's thickness in the specifications, not gsm. However, 300gsm card works fine, but it absolutely needs to be card meant for inkjet printing or it looks awful. See some of the other cards I've used in some videos - most of those I've also tried in the PRO-300

[@stuart1970]

Very useful information..

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was of interest - I do have quite a lot of videos concerning cards - they use different printers, but are relevant to the PRO-200. So, the Epson ET-8550 ones would be similar - the problem I have is that I can't just repeat the same video for each printer ;-)

[@stuart1970]

Hello keith...i wonder if you can help.. Im looking for a printer which will make cards..watching videos for days and not one video showing on KZbin how to make a card.. Can you recommend a printer for making cards for starting my own business..thank you...

[@KeithCooper]

@@stuart1970 Not sure what you actually mean about 'making cards'? I have an article (my videos are often only an adjunct to the main written articles) which discusses this (templates etc.) but the essence is creating a design in Photoshop and then printing it on suitable card... If you're talking about cutting and folding, then that is commercial printing, not related to the sorts of printers I look at.

[@stuart1970]

@@KeithCooper hello thank for your reply..sorry for confusing you..yes i wish create my own design on the card and then print them..

[@KeithCooper]

@@stuart1970 www.northlight-images.co.uk/greeting-card-paper-and-printing/ All my more detailed stuff is written ;-)

[@peonyprintsdotcom6094]

Hi Keith! I recently bought the Canon pro 200 and your videos have been super useful! I want to print greetings cards, A5 sized, what paper would you recommend for this? I've bought quite a few samples but can't seem to find the best one for this printer. Please help! Many thanks in advance

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - a lot depends where you are. The ones I mention are from a local (Leicester UK) supplier - I like the semi gloss ones for photos, but the art papers work well with the right image. The real key is to look for ones that are specifically meant for inkjet printing

[@peonyprintsdotcom6094]

@@KeithCooper thank you Keith! I'm based in the UK so will be looking to order a sample pack from the Leicester company you mention! Thank you for your reply

[@clarelewis7602]

I just bought this printer and am using Pinnable Etching 310 paper, however, I'm still getting really dull results. I'm using Paper Spectrum's guides however the settings they recommend and those available on my printer don't seem to match up - am I missing something? Thanks Keith!

[@KeithCooper]

Ah, not knowing what PS say, I can't specifically answer... It also depends on the software used and colour management aspects. However, do check the main [written] review for this printer-since it has far more info [and links to all my PRO-200 stuff] It also lists the profiles I have made. www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-200-printer-review/

[@clarelewis7602]

@@KeithCooper Thank you - I will look into it!

[@rondoc1936]

I am printing, or trying to, these will be cards folded and I want text on and also pix. The text needs to be on the bottom.and inverted as the cards are folded.. I can just invert the pix but wondered if there is a better way Thank you

[@KeithCooper]

I practice with a template on plain paper in Photoshop, just to get the layout right

[@rondoc1936]

I have a method now that works for me.. I use the Canon professional app that allows for color adjustments that show on screen. I then adjust and note the 5 settings. Then when I go to the printing preferences I set the same number as I found . Then the print comes out with my colors all ok. This seems a crazy way but it works . I don't have photoshop as I do very little photo stuff so not worth the cost.

[@KeithCooper]

If it works, that's fine! @@rondoc1936

[@careytsoi6507]

Hi Keith, Which Epson printer is good for greeting cards? Thanks in advance.

[@KeithCooper]

It depends on the paper/card choice - use cheap non-inkjet card and expect poor results from any printer. None of the smaller desktop ones allow many cards to be stacked for example, so it's very dependent on just what you want to do and print volumes All my recent printer reviews have sections on card printing Start here www.northlight-images.co.uk/category/articles-and-reviews/printer-reviews/

[@careytsoi6507]

@@KeithCooper Thank you for your reply. I now understand. The quality of the paper play a big part of the print.

[@rafezubair8222]

So then which printer of canon which can print high quality on card stock/ art card sheet..all I need is best quality printing on card stock and art card paper.. Is pigment ink based or dye based..

[@KeithCooper]

Both or neither - it all depends on getting card stock meant for inkjet Normal card stock is meant for commercial printing (solvent inks)

[@DavidH_gaming]

can this printer print on 300gsm Silk paper? the same use in playing cards and Trading card games with good quality?

[@KeithCooper]

No - not unless the card is designed for inkjet printing Not one printer I've ever tested would be suitable for this use without special media

[@DavidH_gaming]

@@KeithCooper i really appreciate you getting back to me this is the paper I've decided to use ( A4 Double Sided High Glossy Inkjet Paper - Uinkit 100 Sheets 300Gsm Thick Photo Paper for Inkjet Printing Only ) have you any experience with this by chance, my cannon pro 200 arrives today :D

[@KeithCooper]

Sorry - never heard of it - I'm in the UK Take care with drying before printing the second side

[@DavidH_gaming]

@@KeithCooper thankyou so much for your time and knowledge ill give them a try this weekend I'm also in the UK

[@kerry3789]

Hello. Does anyone know if this printer can print on business cards already cut to size? Thanks in advance

[@KeithCooper]

See the specs in my review www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-200-printer-review/ It says 89mm x 127mm - not tried it this small though. A bigger problem is potentially getting the correct media - ordinary card stock looks awful on inkjet printers

[@kerry3789]

@@KeithCooper thank you so much for your reply and the information provided. I really appreciate it

[@robertlee6635]

You get what you paid for in card types

[@KeithCooper]

Yes, and therein lays the problem for many people who've asked me about card...