Best Printer for Crafters 2026
Create stunning scrapbook pages, greeting cards, and DIY projects with printers designed for crafters.
Quick Answer: Best Printer for Crafters 2026
The Canon PIXMA TS9521C is "THE crafting printer" - it prints borderless on 12x12 scrapbook paper, handles 300gsm cardstock, and even has built-in pattern printing for custom patterned paper.
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Crafters have unique printing needs. You need borderless printing for scrapbook layouts, thick cardstock support for handmade cards, and vibrant colors that make your projects pop. Regular office printers just don't cut it.
We've tested printers specifically for crafting needs - scrapbooking, card making, Cricut Print Then Cut, sticker printing, and more. Here are the best options for 2026.
Must-Have Features for Crafters
Borderless Printing
Prints all the way to the edge - no white borders to trim. Essential for scrapbook pages and cards where you want full-bleed designs.
12x12 Paper Support
The standard scrapbook page size. Most printers max out at 8.5x11, but crafting printers handle 12x12 and larger formats.
Thick Cardstock Handling
Rear feed trays that handle 65-110lb cardstock (up to 300gsm) without jamming or bending. Critical for card making.
Vivid Color Output
Rich, accurate colors that match your design. 5-6 ink systems produce more vibrant results than basic 4-color printers.
Our Top 4 Craft Printers for 2026
1. Canon PIXMA TS9521C
Known as "THE crafting printer" - borderless 12x12 printing, handles 300gsm cardstock, and has built-in pattern printing.
Perfect For Crafters:
- + Borderless 12x12 printing
- + Handles 300gsm cardstock
- + Built-in pattern printing
- + Double-sided printing
Key Specs:
- Type: 5-Color Inkjet All-in-One
- Max Size: 12" x 12" borderless
- Cardstock: Up to 300 gsm
- Functions: Print, Scan, Copy
2. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
6-color ink system for stunning photo quality. Prints up to 13x19 with refillable tanks for ultra-low costs.
Pros:
- + 6-color Claria ink system
- + Wide format up to 13x19
- + Refillable tanks (low cost)
- + Archival photo quality
Key Specs:
- Type: Wide-Format Ink Tank
- Max Size: 13" x 19"
- Colors: 6-ink system
- Functions: Print, Scan, Copy
3. Epson EcoTank ET-2800
Affordable entry into crafting with ink tank system. Handles basic cardstock and delivers vivid colors.
Pros:
- + Most affordable ink tank
- + Vivid color output
- + Low running costs
- + Good for beginners
Key Specs:
- Type: Ink Tank All-in-One
- Max Size: 8.5" x 14"
- Speed: 10.5 ppm black
- Functions: Print, Scan, Copy
4. Epson Expression XP-7100
5-color ink for solid colors, rear specialty paper feed, and prints up to 11x17. Great all-around crafter.
Pros:
- + 5 individual ink cartridges
- + Rear specialty paper feed
- + Prints up to 11x17
- + Auto duplex printing
Key Specs:
- Type: Inkjet All-in-One
- Max Size: 11" x 17"
- Colors: 5-ink system
- Functions: Print, Scan, Copy
Paper Weight & Size Guide for Crafters
| Paper Type | Weight (lb) | GSM | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copy Paper | 20 lb | 75 gsm | Practice prints, patterns |
| Text Weight | 24-28 lb | 90-105 gsm | Thin inserts, flyers |
| Light Cardstock | 65 lb cover | 176 gsm | Card bases, scrapbook accents |
| Medium Cardstock | 80 lb cover | 216 gsm | Most craft projects, cards |
| Heavy Cardstock | 100-110 lb | 270-300 gsm | Premium cards, thick projects |
| Photo Paper | Varies | 180-300 gsm | Photo prints, glossy projects |
Crafter tip: Most craft printers handle 65-110 lb cardstock (176-300 gsm) well. Always use the rear feed tray for thick paper to avoid jams.
Craft Project Printing Tips
For Scrapbooking
- + Use 12x12 capable printers
- + Enable borderless printing
- + Match print resolution to photo quality
- + Let prints dry before handling
For Card Making
- + Use 80-110 lb cardstock
- + Always use rear feed tray
- + Score card fold lines before printing
- + Test alignment on regular paper first
For Cricut/Print Then Cut
- + Use white or light-colored paper only
- + Don't print over registration marks
- + Calibrate your machine after new printer
- + Use matte finish to prevent scanning issues
For Stickers
- + Use inkjet sticker paper
- + Print mirror-image for clear stickers
- + Allow extra drying time
- + Apply laminate for waterproofing
Frequently Asked Questions
What printer is best for scrapbooking?
The Canon PIXMA TS9521C is considered "THE crafting printer" because it prints borderless on 12x12 paper - the standard scrapbook page size. It handles cardstock up to 300gsm and has built-in pattern printing.
Can regular printers print on cardstock?
Most inkjet printers can handle cardstock up to 110lb (200gsm) through the rear feed tray. For heavier cardstock (65-110lb cover), look for printers specifically rated for 300gsm or higher paper weights.
What is borderless printing for crafts?
Borderless printing means printing all the way to the edge of the paper with no white border. This is essential for scrapbookers and card makers who don't want to trim their prints.
Should crafters use inkjet or laser?
Inkjet is definitely better for crafting. Inkjets handle thick papers better, produce more vibrant colors, and can print on specialty materials like sticker paper and textured cardstock that laser printers can't handle.
Create Beautiful Craft Projects
The Canon PIXMA TS9521C prints borderless 12x12 scrapbook pages and handles all your crafting needs.
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