This article will describe what you need to know about using construction paper in a printer, including the best type of printer to use and some tips and tricks for getting the best results.
You can use construction paper in a printer, but only if it’s an inkjet printer. Laser printers and copier machines don’t work with thicker paper. If you try using construction paper in a laser printer or copier, the paper could get stuck and jam the machine.
Types of Printers That Allow Construction Paper
As I mentioned, not all printers allow you to use construction paper. Printers are made differently, and some can handle thicker papers while others cannot.
Here’s a table summary of the different printer types and the papers they support:
| Printer Type | Types of Papers Supported |
|---|---|
| Inkjet Printers | Most paper types, including construction paper, inkjet paper, photo paper, and more. Prints papers 400gsm+ well. |
| Laser Printers | Thinner papers only, such as copy paper and laser paper. Don’t use papers over 220 gsm. |
| Copiers | Can only handle thin papers, such as copy paper. |
Here’s a rundown of what makes the printers compatible or incompatible with construction paper:
Inkjet Printers Allow Customized Paper Thickness
The main reason you can use construction paper in an inkjet printer is that these printers have adjustable paper trays. That means you can adjust the settings to accommodate thicker papers.
Because of that, inkjet printers are generally more versatile and can handle a wider range of paper types, including construction paper, cardstock, photo paper, and more.
If you need an inkjet printer for your home or office that can handle construction paper, get the HP OfficeJet Pro 9025 All-in-One Wireless Printer from Amazon.com. It’s a quality printer with features like automatic two-sided printing and mobile printing. Besides, it enables you to organize documents with Google Drive, reducing your workload.
Laser Printers Cannot Adjust for Thickness
Laser printers, on the other hand, have fixed paper trays. That means they’re not able to adjust for thicker papers. As a result, laser printers can only handle thinner papers, such as copy paper and laser paper.
If you use thick paper in a laser printer, the paper will jam the machine. Besides, it may damage the printer. So, it’s not recommended to use construction paper in a laser printer.
Copiers Also Cannot Handle Thick Papers
Like laser printers, copiers have fixed paper trays and can only handle thin papers. If you try to use construction paper in a copier, it might deposit debris on the internal parts, resulting in jams, poor-quality copies, and even damage to your copier. Because of that, you should avoid using construction paper in a copier machine.
Ways To Tell if Your Printer Can Handle Construction Paper
Now that you know the types of printers that can use construction paper, you might be wondering how to tell if your printer is compatible. After all, you wouldn’t want to risk damaging your printer by using the wrong type of paper.
Here are a few ways to tell if your printer can handle construction paper:
Check the Printer Specifications
The best way to tell if your printer can use construction paper is to check the printer specifications. These are usually listed in the user manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Check if the printer supports thick paper or cardstock. If it does, then you should be able to use construction paper. If not, you’ll need to use a different printer.
Look for an Adjustable Paper Thickness Setting
As I mentioned earlier, inkjet printers can use construction paper because they have an adjustable paper thickness setting. So, another way to tell if your printer can use construction paper is to look for that setting.
On most inkjet printers, the setting is located in the Paper Handling menu.
To access it:
- Open the printer’s control panel.
- Navigate to the Setup or Paper Handling menu.
- Look for the Paper Thickness setting and make sure you can either trim the paper or choose a thicker setting.
Ask the Manufacturer
If you’re still unsure if your printer can use construction paper, the best thing to do is to ask the manufacturer. They’ll be able to tell you for sure and give you more specific instructions on how to use that type of paper with your printer.
Besides, they might also recommend the best way to print on construction paper to avoid damaging your printer.
Tips for Printing on Construction Paper
Now that you know which printers can use construction paper, here are a few tips to help you print on this type of paper:
Use the Thick Paper Settings
When printing on construction paper, make sure you use the right printer settings. For inkjet printers, that means using the thicker paper setting.
That way, you can avoid paper jams and ensure that your construction paper feeds through the printer properly.
Trim the Paper to Size
If your inkjet printer doesn’t have a thicker paper setting, you can still use construction paper by trimming it to size.
To do that, measure the width of your printer’s paper tray and then cut the construction paper to that size. That way, you can avoid jams and ensure that your construction paper feeds through the printer properly.
Use High-Quality Construction Paper
When printing on construction paper, it’s important to use high-quality paper. That way, you can avoid jams and ensure that your prints look their best.
Some brands of construction paper are better than others, so make sure you choose a brand that’s known for being thick and durable.
Here are a few tips for finding high-quality construction paper:
- Check the GSM rating. The higher the GSM rating, the thicker and more durable the construction paper will be.
- Choose a bright white paper. Bright white construction paper will give your prints a crisp, professional look.
- Avoid recycled construction paper. Recycled construction paper is more likely to jam your printer.
Use the Right Ink
To get the best results when printing on construction paper, it’s important to use the right ink. For most printers, that means using dye-based ink. Dye-based ink is designed for use on absorbent surfaces like construction paper.
Pigment-based inks are another option for some printers, but they’re not as common, and they can be more expensive.
Print on One Side Only
When printing on construction paper, it’s important to only print on one side. That way, you can avoid ink smears and ensure that your prints look their best.
Besides, printing on both sides of construction paper can be tricky, so it’s best to avoid it if you can.
Let the Ink Dry Completely
After you’ve printed on construction paper, it’s important to let the ink dry completely before handling the paper. Otherwise, you could smudge your prints.
To speed up the drying process, use a hair dryer on the low setting or set the construction paper in a warm, sunny spot.
Be on the Lookout for Jams
When printing on construction paper, it’s important to be on the lookout for jams. That way, you can avoid damaging your printer.
Here are a few signs that your printer is jammed:
- The paper isn’t feeding through the printer.
- The paper is crumpled or wrinkled.
- There’s ink on the construction paper.
- The print quality is poor.
If you do get a jam, make sure you follow the instructions in your printer’s manual on how to clear it. Otherwise, you could damage your printer.
Can You Put Any Type of Paper in a Printer?
You can put any type of paper in a printer. But that doesn’t mean every type of paper will work well. For example, construction paper is too thick for most printers, so it’s likely to jam or produce smudged prints.
In general, it’s best to stick to printer-friendly papers like copy paper, photo paper, and cardstock. That way, you can avoid jams and ensure that your prints look their best.
Can You Put Thick Paper in a Regular Printer?
You can put thick paper in a regular printer, but you might need to make some adjustments to get it to work properly. For example, you might need to use the thicker paper setting or trim the paper to size.
Just remember that not all printers can handle thick paper, so it’s always a good idea to check your printer’s manual before trying to print on construction paper or any other thick paper.
What Happens if You Put Thick Paper in a Printer?
If you put thick paper in a printer, it might jam or damage the printer. Most printers are designed for use with thinner papers like copy paper and photo paper. If you use construction paper, cardstock, or other thick papers, your printer might not be able to handle it.
The paper could get stuck in the printer and cause a jam or damage the rollers. If you’re not sure if your printer can handle thick paper, check the manual or the manufacturer’s website.
What Is the Heaviest or Thickest Paper You Can Use in a Printer?
The heaviest or thickest paper you can use in a printer is 400gsm. However, that applies if you’re using an inkjet printer. A laser printer can only handle up to 220gsm.
So, if you’re using a laser, make sure you choose a paper that’s under 220gsm. Otherwise, you might end up damaging your printer.
Will a 300gsm Card Go Through a Printer?
300gsm cards will go through a printer. However, it might not be the best choice for your prints. 300gsm paper is on the heavier side, so it might jam in your printer or produce smudged prints.
If you’re looking for a thick paper that’s less likely to cause problems, try 250gsm or 200gsm. Those weights are more printer-friendly and will produce better results.
Can You Print on Cardstock Paper?
You can print on cardstock paper. Cardstock is commonly used for prints, invitations, and greeting cards. Most printers can handle cardstock without problems.
Just remember that not all cardstock is the same. The weight, finish, and texture can all vary between brands and types of cardstock, so it’s always a good idea to test a few sheets before printing a large project.
The Bottom Line
You can use construction paper in a printer, but it’s important to choose the right printer and use the right ink. Otherwise, you might end up with smudged prints or a jammed printer.
When printing on construction paper, it’s also important to only print on one side and let the ink dry completely before handling the paper. With those tips in mind, you can get great-looking prints from your construction paper projects.
For more, don’t miss What Is the Best Paper for Paper Airplanes? (That Fly Far).
Jim James is a published author and expert on the outdoors and survivalism. Through avid research and hands-on experience, he has gained expertise on a wide variety of topics. His time spent at college taught him to become really good at figuring out answers to common problems. Often through extensive trial and error, Jim has continued to learn and increase his knowledge of a vast array of topics related to firearms, hunting, fishing, medical topics, cooking, games/gaming, and other subjects too numerous to name.
Jim has been teaching people a wide variety of survivalism topics for over five years and has a lifetime of experience fishing, camping, general survivalism, and anything in nature. In fact, while growing up, he often spent more time on the water than on land! He has degrees in History, Anthropology, and Music from the University of Southern Mississippi. He extensively studied Southern History, nutrition, geopolitics, the Cold War, and nuclear policy strategies and safety as well as numerous other topics related to the content on survivalfreedom.com.