Ink costs can quickly add up in wide format printing—especially for high-volume operations or businesses expanding into new application types. Understanding where and how to reduce ink waste without sacrificing print quality is key to long-term profitability.
We recently came across a helpful blog post from SAi (SA International) that outlines actionable strategies to cut down on ink costs. Below, we’re sharing their original article, followed by a few of our own insights tailored to our customers and print partners.
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How to Save on Ink Cost in Wide Format Printing
Originally published by SAi on thinksai.com
Ink costs in wide-format printing can add up quickly. And while you always want to produce high-quality graphics for your clients, there are some tricks you can use to keep your ink costs under control.
In this blog, we’ll share four tips to save on ink in wide-format printing:
1. Use Ink Estimation Tools
Most modern RIP software includes an ink estimation tool that can tell you approximately how much ink a job will use before you send it to print.
With this information, you can:
- Better estimate job costs and set more accurate pricing
- Make small design changes to reduce ink usage
- Choose media or print settings that use less ink
2. Choose the Right Print Mode
Most large format printers offer a variety of print modes. Some modes prioritize quality, while others focus on speed or ink savings.
For example, a draft mode might use less ink than a high-quality mode. If you’re printing banners that will be viewed from a distance, draft mode may be sufficient—and more cost-effective.
3. Optimize Your Design Files
Sometimes, small design changes can lead to big savings. For instance:
- Reducing large areas of saturated color
- Using gradients instead of solid fills
- Avoiding excessive use of black or dark colors
These changes can reduce ink usage while still delivering a visually effective design.
4. Regular Maintenance
Clogged nozzles and poorly calibrated printers can waste ink.
By performing regular maintenance, you can:
- Prevent nozzle blockages
- Avoid excessive head cleanings
- Ensure consistent print quality with minimal waste
Conclusion:
By using these four tips—ink estimation, print mode selection, design optimization, and regular maintenance—you can control your ink costs without compromising quality.Want to learn more? SAi offers RIP software solutions with built-in ink estimation tools and efficient print workflows to help you get the most out of every drop of ink.
Visit our website to explore SAI’s software solutions.
Our Take: What Else You Can Do to Save on Ink Costs
At IT Supplies, we echo SAi’s recommendations and see firsthand how smart software and hardware choices can make a major difference in operational efficiency. Here are a few more ways to optimize ink usage based on the types of customers we serve and the technology we support:
1. Invest in Printers Designed for Ink Efficiency
Certain wide-format printers—like the HP Latex 800W or Epson SureColor S80L—are engineered to minimize ink consumption while maximizing output quality. Ask us about printers with ink recirculation systems, optimized drop sizes, and variable dot technology.
2. Use High-Quality Media That Requires Less Saturation
Sometimes, spending a little more on media can save on ink. For example, HP Premium Poster Paper or Hahnemühle Photo Media are engineered for optimal ink absorption and color vibrancy without oversaturation.
3. Calibrate and Profile Regularly
Using ICC profiles created for your exact printer-media-ink combination ensures your RIP software doesn’t overcompensate with unnecessary ink—leading to savings and better color accuracy. Check out our video on how to find ICC Profiles for your printer: Windows, macOS & Linux.
4. Consider White Ink Applications Strategically
White ink adds value but also increases cost. Consider using it only when necessary or in design elements where it adds impact (like on clear or dark substrates). Check out our video on printing with white ink using HP Latex for inspiration.
Final Thoughts
Reducing ink costs doesn’t mean compromising print quality—it means printing smarter. With the right RIP software (like SAi Flexi), strategic hardware choices, and informed media selection, you can save on consumables while still delivering beautiful, high-quality prints.
Have questions about optimizing ink usage or want to explore wide-format printer options? Contact us at IT Supplies or give us a call at 1-800-771-9665—we’re here to help you make every drop count.
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