Five questions to ask
With so many rolls available, it helps to work through a few questions in order. Each one narrows the field.
- What ink does your printer use? Dye-based, pigment and other ink types each suit particular coatings. A paper made for dye inks, such as Rauch PMC 230, will give its best with dye inks. Check the media datasheet against your printer.
- What is the print for? A check plot, a poster, a backlit display, a photographic print and a fine art reproduction all call for different media.
- Indoors or out, and for how long? Short-term indoor posters can use an economical paper. Longer-term or outdoor work needs a more durable film or banner material, often with added protection.
- What finish do you want? Matt reduces glare and is easier to read under lights; satin and gloss give richer colour and deeper blacks.
- What width and length? Match the roll width to your printer and the length to your workload. Call us for the sizes available in each product.
Media types at a glance
| Media type | Typical uses | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| CAD papers | Technical drawings, plans, check plots | Pluss CAD paper, HP CAD paper |
| Graphics papers | Posters, presentations, PoS | HP graphics media, Pluss papers and specialities |
| Graphics films | Displays and more durable graphics | Pluss graphics films |
| Photo papers | Photography, exhibition prints | Photo paper, Rauch media |
| Fine art papers and canvas | Giclée, art reproduction, framing | PremierArt |
| Digital wallpaper | Feature walls, interiors, retail | Phototex paste-free wallpaper |
Original or own-brand?
We supply both HP original media and the Pluss branded range of CAD, graphics papers, films and specialities, alongside the full graphic arts range from Rauch GmbH. Original media is profiled by the printer maker; own-brand and specialist media can offer different surfaces and finishes. We are happy to help you compare.
Tip: Always select the matching media type in your printer driver or RIP, and use an ICC profile where one is available. PremierArt provides settings guides for Canon, Epson and HP Z series printers in our downloads. The wrong media setting is one of the most common causes of poor colour, banding or slow drying.
Plan for protection
If the print will be handled, displayed for a long time or used outdoors, think about finishing at the outset. Film lamination and liquid laminate both add protection; see film vs liquid laminate. Keep unused rolls in good condition with our storage guide.
For more on weights, read paper weight and gsm explained.
Find the right roll
Tell us your printer, ink and application and we will suggest suitable media. Call 01252 624411 or email sales@landoruk.com for sizes, pricing and availability.