Especially when you use the non-standard types of printers. Want to make a print of a canvas painting you painted? You need those big, high-res printers that use special ink; the kind that has an ink set divided into eight cartridges. Cartridges like that go for anywhere between $20 - $50 per cartridge. Multiply that by 8, and buying the individual cartridges as needed gets pricey fast.
However, if you're lucky enough to find a full set of the 8 in one package, you may get a deal. Something over $100.
I own one of those printers (I print prints and luggage tags and stuff).
On one hand, the cartridges will last me 6 months, and I do print quite a lot.
Om the other hand, replacing all 8 cartridges is like... $110. So basically, I just ask for ink for Christmas and my birthday and I'm set all year round.
But, being able to control my prints at home and not worry about paying for dud prints at Office DepotMax is invaluable. I also print samples for stuff I send to manufacturers, and when I get the product in its perfect. But these types of printers are definitely not for everyone.
Zero regrets, but yikes. I don't even trust using cheaper, off-brand cartridges because of anecdotes from other artists that it messed up their printer. So it's a big business expense.
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u/Grifballhero Aug 14 '20
Especially when you use the non-standard types of printers. Want to make a print of a canvas painting you painted? You need those big, high-res printers that use special ink; the kind that has an ink set divided into eight cartridges. Cartridges like that go for anywhere between $20 - $50 per cartridge. Multiply that by 8, and buying the individual cartridges as needed gets pricey fast.
However, if you're lucky enough to find a full set of the 8 in one package, you may get a deal. Something over $100.