How do I confirm my printer type before buying heat transfer paper for the first time?

There are several ways to find out what kind of printer you have. Most printers display their model name on a label found somewhere on the printer’s surface. Some printers even have “laser” or “inkjet” referenced in their name. Scan the exterior of your printer to find the model name, and if it does not specifically say “laser” or “inkjet,” a quick Google search of the model should tell you what you are working with.

Another way to determine whether you have an inkjet or laser printer is to physically open your printer and see if there are ink or toner cartridges inside. Ink cartridges are typically small, box-shaped, and carry liquid ink that you can sometimes observe at the bottom of the cartridge.

In contrast, toner cartridges are generally much larger and longer. They’re filled with a toner powder instead of ink, though you likely won’t be able to see this.

When in doubt, give the manufacturer or the company you purchased the printer from a call and have them confirm your printer type – they may even have some insight on which heat transfer paper works best with your model.

-Chelsea Borgmann, Coastal Business Supplies