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Monday, August 19, 2013

How do I print free printables?

Well, it's rather easy!



Image Map

There are 3 different ways you can print them.

1- At a photo center (such as Costco, Walgreens, Walmart etc. I personally use Costco.)
                      Tip: This is a very easy way to print. Simply upload your printable to the photo website (the same way you would upload the pictures off your camera), select the correct size for the highest quality & to ensure nothing gets cropped off (I always  try to specify the size of my printables, 4x6, 5x7 etc). I also recommend the luster finish.
2- At a copy center (such as Alphagraphics, Kinkos etc. I personally use Alphagraphics.)
                     Tip:  Most copy stores require your printable format to be a pdf.   Some stores can convert a jpg to a pdf for you, but most will not, so call ahead first and find out. If you google jpg to pdf converter, many come up. I've never used any of them, so I can't personally endorse them. If there is a demand for my printables in pdf format, leave me a comment and I will also create a download link for a pdf.  I recommend glossy text 50lb, 80lb or cardstock paper when printing at a copy center. Use a thumb/flash drive to store your printable on and your copy center can access it from there.  
3- At home 
                       Tip:  I really like to print on presentation paper in glossy finish. It is very similar to the glossy text paper the copy centers use.  You can also use glossy or matte photo paper or cardstock if you need a thicker/heavier paper & most dollar stores sell the matte photo paper for only $1!  You can find glossy presentation paper at most office supply stores (such as Office Depot, Office Max etc.)  I have a regular ink jet printer and my office supply store only sells  presentation paper for laser printers. It works just fine on my ink jet, so don't let that stop you.   When printing at home, remember to adjust your printer settings for the best quality!

My printer settings look like this:
    You will be very impressed with the results. Just be sure to let the ink dry before handling the paper.


If you have any other questions, let me know in the comments and I will try to answer them. 

2 comments:

  1. Great tips! I wasn't aware that copy centers needed a pdf. Now I'll know to call ahead!

    ReplyDelete

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