Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) & Tips for Printing Brick Papers & Model Textures
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Tip: Use matte photo paper or high-quality presentation paper for the best results. These papers absorb ink well and reduce glare, giving a more realistic look to your brick papers and textures.
- Cardstock (160-200gsm): Ideal for durable model applications where you're not using thicker card as a base.
- Matte photo paper (120-150gsm): Produces sharp, vibrant details and gives good results when "wrapping" thicker card models.
- Standard printer paper (80gsm): Works ok, but may look less realistic as the results tend to be a little fuzzy. If you're using a laser printer, you can however get great results with humble copier paper as the toners don't soak into the paper fibres.
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Inkjet Printers:
✔ Best for vibrant colors and fine details when using Matte photopaper.
✔ Ideal for crisp, detailed textures and photographic quality results.
✘ May smudge/blurr if using cheap paper.
✘ Prints aren't waterproof, so you'll need to protect your finished model with a matte acrylic lacquer.
Laser Printers:
✔ Produces crisp lines and waterproof prints.
✔ Works well with standard and cardstock papers.
✘ May struggle with very fine color gradients.
✘ Can result in slightly shiny prints, particularly on textures that use high toner coverage such as dark brick and slates. In which case, we recommend giving your finished models a light coat of matte acrylic lacquer to remove the shine.
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Use printer color calibration or print a test page before large projects, and always try to print your papers in batches using the same ink cartridge where possible.
Select “Best Quality” or “High DPI” in print settings.
If colors look too dark or dull, adjust the brightness or contrast settings in your printer driver.
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- Print on textured paper for added depth. This can be sourced from most art & craft shops.
- Use matte finish spray sealant to remove any unwanted glossiness. This is especially important when using a laser printer.
- Try lightly scoring mortar lines with a blunt craft knife, or empty ballpoint pen for a subtle 3D effect.
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- Ensure you are using the highest resolution PDF available. All of our PDF files are at least 300dpi which will always give you professional quality prints.
- Print at 100% scale (Do Not Scale to Fit) to maintain correct proportions. If you're enlarging a print from a smaller scale, this will invariably result in unavoidable pixelation.
- Use the correct paper type setting (e.g., “Photo Paper” for matte paper). And make sure you're printing in Photo quality mode, not draft or high-speed.
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Unfortunately, your prints can sometime look a little darker than they do on the screen. That's because your printer & computer screen haven't been calibrated.
- The quick way to fix this is to increase the brightness and contrast slightly in your printer settings.
- Use photo paper mode or set ICC profiles for accurate color representation.
- If using an inkjet, make sure the print head nozzles are clean and that all colours are being printed onto the paper.
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- Always use a sharp craft knife and metal ruler for precise cuts.
- Spray adhesive such as 3M Spray Mount provides smooth, even adhesion without warping.
- Mod Podge can work well for application on foam board or wood but you will need some practise.
- We always get great results with good old UHU. A light even coat on the area to be covered with brick paper works a treat in most cases.
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- Allow prints to fully dry for at least 15 minutes before handling. While they may appear dry, if you're printing ink-dense textures they can take a while to dry properly.
- Use fast-drying, smudge-resistant paper (matte photo or presentation paper).
- Consider spraying a light coat of clear fixative or acrylic sealer for protection. We get great results with most clear matte acrylic lacquers available from B&Q, Halfords, The Range etc.
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- Use heavier-weight paper where possible (120gsm or higher).
- Let prints fully dry on a flat surface before stacking or using.
- If curling persists, place under a heavy book for a few hours.
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- Print Quality: Best or High DPI (600+ recommended)
- Paper Type: Match the type you are using (Matte, Photo, or Cardstock)
- Scaling: 100% (Disable “Fit to Page”)
- Color Profile: Select Vivid or High Contrast for detailed textures