How exactly do you print labels on DVDs??

[Rudyard]

This im sure will have an answer that will make me look dumb but I have often bought blank DVDs that say they are inkjet printable and have a clear white label on them that apparently is for printing labels.

However I have never actually been sure how I am meant to print on them??

I am going to stop short of asking if there is something I must buy that takes it through the printer as I know how stupid that sounds but can someone explain to me how exactly I am meant to print on these discs??

[Bodyslide]

Epson makes a few printers that will print on the DVD's. Epson 200, Epson 320. Also Canon has a few printers as well....I then use Surething Label Maker to design the labels and print out to my Epson 200....

A few links here:
https://forum.videohelp.com/viewtopic.php?t=281187

https://forum.videohelp.com/viewtopic.php?t=304518

Just some info on the Printers.....

[adam]

Edit: he beat me.

Check out Epson printers. They've got a whole line of printers that print on the cd/dvd. Yes, the cd does actually go through the printer. There is a little tray that you put it in and it slides into a feeder that drops down. It doesn't go through where the paper does, which is probably why you thought the idea was stupid. Epson is the only manufacturer for these types of printers in the US. In Canada I believe Canon makes them also. Not sure what is available elsewhere.

There are also standalone CD/DVD printers that do nothing but print on discs. Many only print in black and white and most only print 3 color monochrome. The Epson printers are so cheap ($40 on sale) that they are much better options.

[Rudyard]

Thankyou both for your speedy replies.......yes i did think it was stupid because I was picturing my DVD's going through the paper part! (couldnt figure out how that would work!)

Thanks again

[Jaysee&Dali]

Rudyard,

I purchased a Canon IP4200 especially for printing onto printable DVD/CD's. I've created a "template" in Photoshop (creating the label in Photoshop is of course optional but it allows for more creativity). After I design the label, I flatten the PSD file and save it as a jpeg then import it into the labeling software that came with the printer. Place the DVD or CD into the supplied tray and select print!

The Canon does a great job.

cheers,
Jaysee&Dali

[Rudyard]

Thanks...I will look into it when the time comes for my next printer.

[Rudyard]

Well it is time for the new printer and was just wondering if anyone knew of any updated info on printers that do CD/DVD's?

Also I would like to research my options but dont quite know what to search for...anyone know search strings that bring up a list of potential printers with this feature?

Thanks

[aliali]

Rudyard

I've had the epson printers and they were fine, but i bought a canon ip5200 and the speed of
printing and the quality of the print far out weigh's the epson model's. So i would suggest you went for this model.

[redwudz]

Two brands that seem to be available in your location:

Epson Stylus

Canon PIXMA

There are several models of each. I found them by doing a Google search for 'CD printers, Australia'
There are probably other brands and models available. Sometimes you have to look a little in the descriptions as most all will also print photos. But they would have a special tray for CD/DVDs.

[Richard_G]

As said, both Epson and Canon do suitable printers. There have been a few threads on here from Epson users complaining that the ink takes days to dry on the discs or needs to be sprayed with clear laquer to stop it smearing. I use an older Canon iP3000 and have never had this problem and I've never seen anyone else complain about it either. I think the iP4200 is the current one.

[Alex_ander]

I use Canon iP4200, it's rather cheap and compact. There are newer modifications like iP5200 that print basically faster.