Best Printer for Crafting: Top 13 Picks for DIY Projects

Crafting is a popular hobby that allows people to express their creativity and make unique items. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, having the right tools is essential to achieving your desired results. One of the most important tools in a crafter's arsenal is a printer. But not just any printer will do. To create high-quality crafts, you need a printer that is specifically designed for crafting.

When it comes to choosing the best printer for crafting, there are a few critical things you should consider. First and foremost, you want a printer that can produce high-quality prints with vibrant colors and sharp details. You also want a printer that is versatile and can handle a variety of different materials, including cardstock, vinyl, and fabric. Finally, you want a printer that is easy to use and doesn't require a lot of technical know-how.

In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best printers for crafting on the market today. We'll compare the features and benefits of each printer and help you determine which one is right for you. Whether you're looking to create beautiful scrapbook pages, personalized greeting cards, or custom t-shirts, we've got you covered. So let's get started and find the perfect printer for your crafting needs.

Best Printers for Crafting

If you're into crafting, you know the importance of a good printer. Whether you're printing out templates, patterns, or designs, you need a printer that can handle the job with precision and quality. In this roundup, we've gathered the best printers for crafting, based on factors like print quality, versatility, and affordability. So if you're looking for a printer that can keep up with all your crafting needs, you've come to the right place.

Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer

If you're looking for a versatile printer that can handle your everyday printing needs as well as your crafting projects, the Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer might be a good option for you.

Pros

• The PIXMA TS9521C has 5 Individual Inks that are ready for craft projects & everyday needs; ChromaLife100 protects photos from fading; 100 years; Album, 30 years; Behind glass, 20 years; Without glass
• Print from all your favorite devices, whether that is a smartphone, tablet, memory card or computer; With Air Print, Morea Print Service, and Wi Fi the PIXMA TS9521C is ready for all your devices
• With 12'x12 inches paper support, booklet layout copy, oversized scanning and Auto Document Feeder for multi-page documents, the PIXMA TS9521C is extremely versatile and ready to handle lots of projects

Cons

• The printer is quite heavy, weighing in at 21.3 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around.
• Some users have reported issues with the paper feed, which can cause jams or misalignments.
• The printer can be a bit noisy when in operation, which may be a concern if you plan to use it in a shared space.

If you're looking for a printer that can handle all of your crafting needs, the Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer has a lot to offer. With support for 12'x12 inches paper, booklet layout copy, and oversized scanning, this printer is extremely versatile and can handle a wide range of projects. Additionally, the printer features 5 individual inks that are ready for craft projects and everyday needs, and ChromaLife100 technology that protects photos from fading for up to 100 years.

One potential downside of this printer is its weight - at 21.3 pounds, it's quite heavy and may be difficult to move around. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the paper feed, which can cause jams or misalignments. Finally, the printer can be a bit noisy when in operation, which may be a concern if you plan to use it in a shared space.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile printer that can handle both your everyday printing needs and your crafting projects, the Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of its weight and potential paper feed issues before making your purchase.

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy

If you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer for crafting, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a great option.

Pros

• With high-capacity ink tanks and replacement ink bottles, you can save up to 90% on ink costs compared to traditional cartridges.
• The EcoFit ink bottles make filling the printer easy and worry-free, and you can print up to 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 pages in color with each replacement ink set.
• The Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology produces sharp text and impressive color photos on virtually any paper type.

Cons

• The paper tray setup can be frustrating, but the back feed is great for printing on heavy cardstock.
• The small information screen can be difficult to read.
• Some users have experienced issues with the printer's reliability over time.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer for crafting. With its high-capacity ink tanks and replacement ink bottles, you can save money on ink costs and enjoy stress-free printing for up to 2 years. The printer's Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology also produces high-quality prints, making it a great choice for crafting projects.

One downside of the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is the paper tray setup, which some users find frustrating. However, the back feed is great for printing on heavy cardstock, which can be a challenge for other printers. Additionally, the information screen on the printer is small and can be difficult to read.

Finally, some users have experienced issues with the printer's reliability over time. However, with a 2-year limited warranty and full unit replacement, you can rest assured that you'll be covered in case of any issues. Overall, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer for crafting.

HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

If you're looking for a printer that can handle professional-quality color documents, the HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• With fast print speeds of up to 18 pages per minute in black and 10 pages per minute in color, you can get your work done quickly.
• The printer includes the optional HP+ Smart Printing System that keeps itself up to date, secure, and ready to print from virtually anywhere at any time—at no additional cost.
• You'll get 6 months of free ink when you activate HP plus, which includes a subscription for Instant Ink delivery service. Ink ships automatically so you never run out, and you can save up to 50%.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the paper tray takes some getting used to.
• Printing can be noisy, with several clicking sounds like the ink cartridges are moving back and forth.
• While the printer is compact and easy to use, printing can take a while.

The HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer is best for small businesses and home offices that need to print professional-quality color documents like forms, reports, brochures, and presentations. With dual-band Wi-Fi and security essentials like basic encryption, password protection, Wi-Fi security, and document protection, you can protect sensitive data and get enhanced cloud-based security features with HP plus.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable printer that can handle professional-quality color documents, the HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer might be the right choice for you.

Brother HL-L3220CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer

If you're looking for a reliable and affordable printer for your crafting needs, the Brother HL-L3220CDW is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Upgrade your professional documents with the consistent dependability of laser-quality color printing
• Combining easy affordability with the business features that you need, its compact footprint fits just about anywhere around the home or home office
• Built-in dual band wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, or connect locally to a single computer via USB interface

Cons

• Photo printing quality is not the best
• Only suitable for low to medium volume printing
• The printer is a bit heavy

This printer is designed to complement the way you work from home, with practical features that complete every task easily and efficiently. It consistently produces laser-quality, smudge-free prints at speeds up to 19 pages per minute. Its generous 250-sheet capacity paper tray is perfect for high-volume printing and saves you time by lessening the frequency of paper refills.

The single-sheet manual feed slot is ideal for printing coordinated materials such as envelopes, labels, invitations, and nametags. It prints vivid, full-color outputs and crisp black and white documents from almost any device with wireless connectivity and mobile device compatibility.

Advanced security features safeguard information and create secure connections to networks and devices for reassuring peace of mind. Plus, you can handle personal documents like loan agreements and insurance contracts, or professional documents like confidential business proposals and employee records with confidence.

The HL-L3220CDW is a compact and capable addition to any home workspace. It is ENERGY STAR compliant and EPEAT Silver rated, making it environmentally friendly. It also features Eco Mode, Toner Save Mode, and automatic duplex printing.

Backed by Brother with a 1-year limited warranty and free online, call, or live chat support for the life of your printer, the HL-L3220CDW is a reliable and affordable option for your crafting needs.

Phomemo M08F Wireless Tattoo Transfer Stencil Printer

If you're a tattoo artist looking for a portable and inkless tattoo stencil printer, the Phomemo M08F Wireless Tattoo Transfer Stencil Printer might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable design
• High compatibility with multiple devices
• Ink-free printing technology

Cons

• Might not be suitable for professional tattoo artists
• Some users reported issues with the printer's printing quality
• Might require some time to get used to the Phomemo App

This wireless tattoo stencil printer is built specifically for tattoo use, boasting a lightweight and wireless design that makes it easy to use on-the-go. With its built-in rechargeable battery, you won't have to worry about being tethered to a charging cable, providing unparalleled convenience for tattoo artists.

The Phomemo M08F is highly compatible with multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers, making designing and printing easier than ever for tattoo enthusiasts. It's compatible with various systems, including Android, Apple, Windows, MacOS, and ChromeOS.

The Phomemo App allows for one-click printing of images and documents, making it easier for tattoo artists to print their designs instantly. Plus, for optimal printing results, using Phomemo Tattoo Transfer Paper is recommended.

This wireless tattoo stencils printer uses advanced thermal technology to print clear and precise patterns and lines, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process for professional tattoo artists. It allows you to focus on creating high-quality temporary or permanent tattoos for your clients.

The M08F cordless tattoo printer comes with a large capacity 1200mAh battery, providing up to 140 pages of light-colored images or text per full charge. Additionally, it includes 10 sheets of tattoo transfer paper to help you get started.

In summary, if you're a tattoo enthusiast looking for a portable and ink-free tattoo stencil printer, the Phomemo M08F Wireless Tattoo Transfer Stencil Printer might be a good fit for you. However, if you're a professional tattoo artist, you might need to consider other options before making a purchase.

HP ENVY Inspire 7955e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer

If you are looking for a printer that can handle all your crafting needs, the HP ENVY Inspire 7955e is a great choice. With its advanced photo features, separate photo tray, and automatic document feeder, it can help you get all your crafting projects done with ease.

Pros

• Get vibrant photos that look as good as they do on your screen with true-to-phone quality prints.
• Includes 3 months free subscription for Instant Ink delivery service with HP+ activation.
• Made with over 45% recycled plastic content, making it HP's most sustainable design.

Cons

• This printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry.
• Monthly fee applies after 3 months of free ink service unless cancelled.
• Some reviews report flimsy screen and cheaply made quality.

Crafting can be a lot of fun, but it can also be time-consuming. With the HP ENVY Inspire 7955e, you can get all your crafting projects done quickly and easily. This printer is perfect for printing high-quality borderless photos in multiple sizes, creative projects, and more. With print speeds up to 10 pages per minute color and 15 pages per minute black, you can get your projects done in no time.

One of the best things about the HP ENVY Inspire 7955e is that it includes 3 months free subscription for Instant Ink delivery service with HP+ activation. This means that ink ships automatically so you never run out. After 3 months, a monthly fee applies unless cancelled, and you can save up to 50%. This makes it a great choice for anyone who wants to save money on ink.

Another great thing about the HP ENVY Inspire 7955e is that it includes free HP+ smart features. You can activate HP+ free to get advanced features for mobile printing, security, automatic updates, and more. HP+ only works with an HP account, internet connection, and Original HP Ink for the life of the printer.

Overall, if you are looking for a printer that can handle all your crafting needs, the HP ENVY Inspire 7955e is a great choice. With its advanced photo features, separate photo tray, and automatic document feeder, it can help you get all your crafting projects done quickly and easily.

HP Smart Tank Printer 7602

If you're looking for a reliable all-in-one printer for your small business or home office, the HP Smart Tank Printer 7602 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With its refillable ink tank system, this printer is perfect for low-cost, high-volume printing.
• The touch panel makes it easy to complete everyday print, scan and copy tasks with app-like, intuitive navigation.
• The HP Smart Tank Printer 7602 provides outstanding color graphics, photos and crisp text for all your prints.

Cons

• While this printer is great for high-volume printing, it may not be the best choice if you only need to print a few pages every now and then.
• The HP Smart Tank Printer 7602 is a bit on the bulky side, so it may not be the best option if you have limited desk space.
• Some users have reported issues with the printer's wireless connectivity.

If you're looking for a reliable all-in-one printer that can handle high-volume printing, the HP Smart Tank Printer 7602 is definitely worth considering. With its refillable ink tank system, this printer is perfect for those who want to save money on ink. The touch panel makes it easy to complete everyday print, scan and copy tasks with app-like, intuitive navigation. Plus, the HP Smart Tank Printer 7602 provides outstanding color graphics, photos and crisp text for all your prints.

However, if you only need to print a few pages every now and then, this printer may not be the best choice for you. Additionally, the HP Smart Tank Printer 7602 is a bit on the bulky side, so it may not be the best option if you have limited desk space. Finally, some users have reported issues with the printer's wireless connectivity, so keep this in mind if you plan on using this printer wirelessly.

Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer

Looking for a reliable color printer that can handle high-volume printing? The Brother HL-L3280CDW wireless digital color printer might be the perfect fit for you. With premium laser-quality printing and an intuitive 2.7” touchscreen, this printer is designed to optimize efficiencies while working from home or in shared workspaces.

Pros

• Compact and capable with speeds up to 27 pages per minute (ppm)(2)
• Features Automatic Duplex printing, the most efficient way to produce double-sided pages
• Easy to use color touchscreen enables printing from Cloud-based apps including Google Drive, Dropbox, EverNote, and others commonly used by businesses and entrepreneurs alike(4)

Cons

• Slightly heavier than other printers, weighing in at 33.9 pounds
• May not be the most cost-effective option for personal use
• Some users have reported occasional paper jams

If you're in need of a printer that can handle high-volume printing with ease, the Brother HL-L3280CDW is a great option. With its laser-quality printing and automatic duplex feature, you can save time and refill less often. Its easy-to-use touchscreen makes it simple to print from your favorite cloud-based apps. However, it is slightly heavier than other printers and may not be the most cost-effective option for personal use. Additionally, some users have reported occasional paper jams.

Overall, the Brother HL-L3280CDW is a solid choice for small offices and home offices in need of a reliable color printer.

Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer

If you're looking for a reliable printer for crafting, the Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is a great choice.

Pros

• Never run out of ink with Smart Reorders and Alexa notifications
• Wireless 3-in-1 functionality for printing, copying, and scanning
• Auto 2-sided printing and 200 sheet capacity for efficient printing

Cons

• Print speeds may not be fast enough for high volume printing
• Ink may be expensive to replace
• Connectivity options limited to USB and wireless

Crafters will appreciate the convenience of never running out of ink with Smart Reorders and Alexa notifications, ensuring that you always have the supplies you need. The wireless 3-in-1 functionality allows for easy printing, copying, and scanning, while auto 2-sided printing and a 200 sheet capacity make printing more efficient.

However, those who need to print in high volumes may find the print speeds to be lacking, and the cost of replacing ink may be a concern. Connectivity options are also limited to USB and wireless.

Overall, the Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is a solid choice for crafters in need of a reliable printer.

HP Smart-Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink-Tank Printer

If you're looking for a printer that can handle high-volume printing, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink-Tank Printer is a great option.

Pros

• With up to 2 years of ink included, you'll save money on ink costs.
• The printer can handle a variety of color documents in high volumes.
• You can print, copy, and scan, plus it has borderless, mobile, and wireless capabilities.

Cons

• The printer is a bit slow, taking a while to run through its set up each time you want to print.
• It can only scan one page at a time, which can be time-consuming.
• The ink refill system can be a bit messy, so be careful when replenishing ink.

This printer is perfect for home printing, whether you're crafting or printing everyday documents. It delivers color graphics and crisp text for your everyday prints and has a self-healing Wi-Fi that automatically detects and resolves connection issues. The HP Smart App also lets you print, scan, and copy from your phone, wherever you are.

The printer is also easy to use, with smart-guided buttons that illuminate to guide you through everyday print, scan, and copy tasks. Plus, HP Wolf Essential Security helps maintain privacy and control with basic encryption and password protection.

Overall, if you're looking for a printer that can handle high-volume printing and still deliver quality prints, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink-Tank Printer is a great choice.

Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer

If you're looking for a printer that can handle all your crafting needs, the Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With integrated ink tanks, you can print up to 6,000 pages in black and 7,700 pages in color before needing to refill.
• The printer has wireless capabilities, so you can print from your mobile devices using the free Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service.
• The 1.35” square LCD screen is easy to use and intuitive.

Cons

• The printer only prints single-sided, which may be a downside for some users.
• While the printer has a 100-sheet rear tray, it doesn't have an automatic document feeder, which may be inconvenient for users who frequently scan or copy multi-page documents.
• The printer is relatively heavy at 13.2 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around.

Crafters will appreciate the Canon MegaTank G3270's ability to print high-quality images and documents. With its wireless capabilities, you can easily print from your mobile devices, and the integrated ink tanks mean you won't have to worry about constantly refilling them. However, the lack of automatic double-sided printing and an automatic document feeder may be a downside for some users. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable printer for your crafting needs, the Canon MegaTank G3270 is definitely worth considering.

Brother Print & Cut MFC-J1800DW Wireless Color All-in-One Inkjet Printer

If you're looking for a printer that can handle all your crafting needs, the Brother MFC-J1800DW is an excellent choice. With automatic paper cutting, wireless connectivity, and a range of other features, this printer is designed to make your life easier.

Pros

• Automatic paper cutter saves time and reduces waste
• Wireless connectivity allows you to print from anywhere
• Intuitive touchscreen makes it easy to use

Cons

• Some users have reported difficulty with setup
• Ink replacement can be expensive
• Not ideal for heavy-duty printing tasks

This printer is perfect for anyone who wants to save time and reduce waste when crafting. The automatic paper cutter is a game-changer, allowing you to quickly and easily cut paper to the size you need. Plus, with wireless connectivity, you can print from anywhere, whether you're at home or on the go.

One of the standout features of this printer is its intuitive touchscreen. With just a few taps, you can copy, cut, print, and scan with ease. And with support for popular cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox, you can quickly access your files from anywhere.

Of course, no printer is perfect, and the Brother MFC-J1800DW is no exception. Some users have reported difficulty with setup, so be prepared to spend some time getting everything up and running. Additionally, ink replacement can be expensive, so keep that in mind when budgeting for this printer.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile, easy-to-use printer that's perfect for crafting, the Brother MFC-J1800DW is an excellent choice. With automatic paper cutting, wireless connectivity, and a range of other features, it's sure to make your life easier.

Canon PIXMA TS9521C All-in-One Wireless Crafting Color Inkjet Printer

If you're looking for a versatile printer that can handle all your crafting needs, the Canon PIXMA TS9521C is a great option.

Pros

• With a maximum resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, this printer can output detailed photos, graphics, or other documents on paper as large as 11 x 17" — including square prints as large as 12 x 12".
• The Auto-Document Feeder can be used to make quick prints or scans, and duplex printing and copying will help you save money on paper.
• Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allows for remote printing from your mobile device using services like AirPrint or Mopria as well as remote operation via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and If This Then That.

Cons

• The front paper tray can only hold 100 sheets of plain paper or 20 sheets of 4 x 6" / 10 sheets of 5 x 7" photo paper, which may not be enough for high-volume printing.
• The printer is quite heavy at 21.3 lbs, which may make it difficult to move around.
• Some users have reported issues with the printer going into idle mode and needing to be manually turned back on.

The Canon PIXMA TS9521C is a versatile and reliable printer that is perfect for crafting and everyday use. With its high resolution and ability to print on a variety of paper sizes, you'll be able to create beautiful and professional-looking projects with ease. The Auto-Document Feeder and duplex printing features make it easy to save time and money, while the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow for easy remote printing and operation. While the front paper tray may be a bit small for some users, overall this is a great printer that is definitely worth considering for all your crafting needs.

Buying Guide

When it comes to finding the best printer for crafting, there are a few key features that you should consider before making your purchase. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Print Quality

The most important aspect of any printer is the quality of the prints it produces. When it comes to crafting, you want your projects to look as professional as possible. Look for a printer that can produce high-quality prints with sharp lines and vibrant colors.

Paper Compatibility

Different crafting projects require different types of paper. Make sure that the printer you choose is compatible with the types of paper you plan to use. Some printers may have trouble printing on thicker or textured papers, so be sure to check the specifications before making your purchase.

Connectivity

Consider how you plan to use your printer. If you will be printing from multiple devices, look for a printer that offers wireless connectivity. This will allow you to easily print from your phone, tablet, or laptop without having to plug in any cords.

Size and Portability

Think about where you will be using your printer and how much space you have available. If you will be using it in a small crafting room, you may want to look for a compact printer that won't take up too much space. If you plan to take your printer with you to crafting events, consider a portable option that is easy to transport.

Cost

Finally, consider your budget. While you don't want to skimp on quality, you also don't want to overspend on features you won't use. Look for a printer that offers the features you need at a price point that works for you.

By considering these factors, you can find the best printer for your crafting needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a printer for high-quality art prints?

When looking for a printer for high-quality art prints, you should consider factors such as resolution, color accuracy, and the ability to print on various paper types. Look for a printer with a high DPI (dots per inch) to ensure fine details are captured in your artwork. Additionally, a printer with a wide color gamut will produce more accurate and vibrant colors in your prints.

Which printers are compatible with Cricut for seamless crafting integration?

Most modern printers are compatible with Cricut machines, but it's important to check the specifications before purchasing. Look for printers that support wireless connectivity, as this will allow you to print directly from your Cricut machine without the need for cables. Additionally, printers with a front-loading tray will make it easier to load and print on various paper types.

How does cardstock printing capability affect the choice of a craft printer?

Cardstock is a popular material used in crafting, so it's important to choose a printer that can handle this type of paper. Look for printers with a straight paper path, as this will prevent jams and ensure your cardstock prints come out smoothly. Additionally, printers with adjustable paper trays will allow you to print on a variety of paper sizes and weights.

Can you recommend a printer that excels in both sublimation and crafting needs?

When it comes to sublimation and crafting, the Epson SureColor P800 is a popular choice. This printer has a wide color gamut, high resolution, and can handle a variety of paper types and sizes. Additionally, it has a dedicated tray for sublimation paper, making it easy to switch between crafting and sublimation projects.

What are the advantages of using a laser printer for crafting projects?

Laser printers are known for their speed and precision, making them a great choice for crafting projects. They also produce sharp, crisp lines and text, which is ideal for printing stencils and templates. Additionally, laser printers use toner instead of ink, which means the prints are less likely to smudge or smear.

Is it necessary to have a printer to maximize the use of a Cricut Maker 3?

While it's not necessary to have a printer to use a Cricut Maker 3, it can certainly enhance your crafting experience. With a printer, you can easily print out templates, stencils, and other designs to use with your Cricut machine. Additionally, you can print out photos and other graphics to use in your crafting projects.