How to Choose the Best Inkjet Printer for Mylar Bags: A Complete Guide

Printing on Mylar bags has become popular for businesses of all kinds. From food products to custom merchandise, Mylar bags help keep items fresh, safe, and attractive. They are known for their strength and ability to block light and moisture, making them ideal for packaging. But beyond keeping products safe, printed Mylar bags also look professional. They help brands stand out, adding a personal touch to the packaging.

Using an inkjet printer for Mylar bags is a great way to create these custom designs without spending too much money. Inkjet printers are generally affordable, easy to set up, and provide high-quality results. However, not all inkjet printers are the same. Some models work better on materials like Mylar than others. This article will help you find the best inkjet printer for Mylar bags by explaining what to look for, the types of ink to use, and how to get a crisp, clean print every time.

Why Print on Mylar Bags?

Printing on Mylar bags has many benefits. Mylar is a strong, durable material that protects products from light, moisture, and air. This makes it perfect for packaging items like snacks, coffee, pet food, and even medical supplies. The sturdy design of Mylar bags keeps contents safe and fresh for a long time. With printed designs, these bags not only serve a purpose but also look appealing on store shelves.

Custom-printed Mylar bags add a professional look to any product. When businesses print their logo or product details on the bags, it helps build brand recognition. Shoppers can easily recognize the brand and feel more confident about the product. Printed Mylar bags also make products look more trustworthy and high-quality.

Printing on Mylar bags is also great for small businesses. A unique design on a Mylar bag sets products apart and grabs attention. This is especially helpful in crowded markets where many brands compete for attention. When a business uses eye-catching, custom-printed Mylar bags, it can stand out, attract more customers, and make a lasting impression.

Can You Use an Inkjet Printer for Mylar Bags?

Yes, you can use an inkjet printer to print on Mylar bags, but it requires the right setup. Mylar is a slick, non-porous surface, which means regular ink might not stick well. This can lead to smudges or faded prints. To avoid this, you need to use special inks that work well on non-absorbent materials.

Pigment-based inks and UV inks are the best options for printing on Mylar. Unlike dye-based inks, which can smear or wash off, pigment inks are more durable. They create vibrant colors that stay put even on slick surfaces like Mylar. UV inks are another choice. These inks dry quickly when exposed to UV light, making them ideal for smooth materials.

It’s also important to check if your inkjet printer can handle thicker materials. Mylar bags are thicker than regular paper, so some printers may struggle with feeding them smoothly. Look for an inkjet printer that allows for adjustable media settings. This helps the printer handle materials like Mylar bags without jamming or skipping. With the right ink and printer settings, you can achieve clear and professional prints on Mylar bags.

Key Features to Look for in an Inkjet Printer for Mylar Bags

When choosing an inkjet printer for Mylar bags, there are a few important features to look for. Each feature plays a role in making sure you get clear, lasting prints that won’t smudge or fade. Here are some key things to consider:

1. High Print Resolution
Resolution is the sharpness and detail of a print. A high-resolution printer can create clear and crisp images, which is essential for printing logos, text, and designs on Mylar bags. Look for a printer with at least 1200 x 1200 dpi (dots per inch). Higher dpi means more detail, which makes your designs stand out and look professional on the smooth Mylar surface.

2. Ink Drying Speed
Because Mylar is non-porous, ink can take longer to dry. Slow drying can lead to smudging and messy prints. Some inkjet printers come with fast-drying technology, which is perfect for materials like Mylar. Choosing a printer with this feature can save you from waiting between prints and ensures each bag has a clean, sharp design. UV ink printers are especially useful here because the ink dries almost instantly under UV light.

3. Ability to Handle Thick Materials
Mylar bags are thicker than regular paper, so your printer needs to handle this extra thickness. Many inkjet printers can only print on paper or thin media, which may lead to jamming or incomplete prints on Mylar bags. Look for printers with an adjustable media tray or specialty media handling. This allows the printer to accept thicker materials like Mylar bags without issues, making the printing process smoother.

4. Durable and Long-Lasting Ink Compatibility
The type of ink you use matters a lot for printing on Mylar. Dye-based inks are common but can fade over time or run when exposed to moisture. For Mylar bags, it’s better to use pigment-based or UV inks. These inks are resistant to fading and create strong, vibrant prints that last. Pigment inks stick better to non-porous surfaces, while UV inks dry instantly under UV light, creating a smudge-proof, water-resistant finish.

5. Consistent Color Quality
When printing on Mylar, color quality is important, especially if you want your brand colors to be accurate and vibrant. Some printers are designed to produce consistent colors across multiple prints. This feature helps if you’re printing in bulk and need each Mylar bag to look the same. A printer with good color management keeps the colors rich and true, which is important for branding and professional presentation.

6. User-Friendly Settings and Adjustments
Printing on Mylar bags often requires adjustments in print settings. Some inkjet printers come with easy-to-use control panels or software that allows you to adjust settings for thickness, color depth, and drying speed. A user-friendly interface can make printing on Mylar less complicated, especially if you are printing in large quantities or trying different designs.

Types of Ink for Mylar Bag Printing

Choosing the right ink for Mylar bag printing is essential for clear, lasting results. Not all inks work well with Mylar’s smooth surface. Using the right type ensures that designs stick, look bright, and resist smudging. Here’s a look at the best ink options for Mylar bag printing:

1. Pigment Ink
Pigment ink is one of the best choices for Mylar bag printing. It uses solid color particles suspended in liquid, which makes it more durable than dye-based ink. Pigment ink doesn’t soak into the material; instead, it sits on the surface, which is ideal for non-porous Mylar. It’s known for being fade-resistant, so the colors stay strong even with time. Pigment ink also resists water, meaning your design won’t smear or run if it gets damp. This ink is great for creating bold, vivid designs on Mylar bags.

2. UV Ink
UV ink is another excellent option for Mylar bags. This ink is unique because it dries instantly when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Since Mylar is non-absorbent, quick drying is a big advantage. With UV ink, there’s no risk of smudging, and you can handle the bag right after printing. UV ink is also durable and resistant to fading, making it suitable for long-lasting designs. Its fast-drying nature and strong color hold make it popular for packaging and other smooth-surface printing.

3. Solvent Ink
Solvent ink is less common but works well for Mylar. It’s made from a mixture of pigment and strong chemical solvents. Solvent ink is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and durable, which is helpful for printed Mylar bags that might be handled frequently. However, solvent ink often has strong fumes and may require good ventilation. While effective, it may not be the best choice for small-scale printing or indoor use due to its chemical smell.

4. Dye-Based Ink (Not Ideal)
Dye-based ink is found in many standard inkjet printers, but it’s not the best choice for Mylar bags. Dye-based ink soaks into surfaces, which works well on paper but not on Mylar. Since Mylar is non-porous, dye-based ink can smear easily and may wash off over time. While it produces bright colors, it isn’t water-resistant or fade-proof, so the design may not last. For these reasons, it’s better to avoid dye-based ink for Mylar printing and choose a more durable option like pigment or UV ink.

Each type of ink has its strengths, but pigment and UV inks are the top picks for Mylar bags. They provide strong, vibrant prints that last, making them ideal for creating professional-looking packaging.

Best Inkjet Printer Models for Mylar Bag Printing

1. Epson SureColor F-series (e.g., F170 / F570)

🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson SureColor F170

🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson SureColor F570

Best Overall: Dedicated DTG & Specialty Printer

This is arguably the best “off-the-shelf” choice. While marketed for Direct-to-Garment (DTG), the Epson F170 and its larger sibling, the F570, are designed to print on non-porous, difficult substrates.

Why it works: It comes factory-equipped with pigment-based ink (Epson’s “UltraChrome DG” ink) that is formulated to adhere to fabrics and other challenging surfaces. It has a straight-through, clamshell design that allows you to lay the printing platen flat, making it perfect for placing a Mylar bag.
Pros: Purpose-built for this type of task. No modification needed. Excellent print quality and ink adhesion. Includes white ink capability.
Cons: Higher upfront cost than consumer printers. The smaller F170 has a limited print area ( approx. 11″ x 17″).
Best for: Businesses and individuals serious about printing on Mylar bags and other specialty items without the hassle of modifying a printer.

2. Modified Epson EcoTank Series (e.g., ET-8550 / ET-15000)

🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson EcoTank ET-15000

Best Prosumer / DIY Option

Epson’s EcoTank printers are famous for their high-yield, integrated ink tanks. Certain models are excellent candidates for modification.

Why it works: Models like the ET-8550 and ET-15000 have a rear feed tray and a straight paper path to the front output, allowing them to handle thick, rigid media. They use pigment-based inks from the factory, which is a huge head start. For optimal results, users often install a CISS with even more adhesive inks (like UV-resistant or textile pigments).
Pros: Lower initial cost than the SureColor series. High-capacity ink tanks. Excellent print quality on various media.
Cons: Requires technical confidence to modify and potentially void the warranty. You must source a reliable CISS and compatible inks.
Best for: Tech-savvy users and small businesses willing to modify a printer for a cost-effective, high-quality solution.

3. Epson WorkForce WF-series (e.g., WF-7840 / WF-7210)

🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson Workforce Pro WF-7840
🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson WorkForce WF-7210

The Workhorse for Larger Formats

If you need to print on larger Mylar bags or sheets, a wide-format printer is necessary. The Epson WorkForce series offers this capability.

Why it works: Printers like the WF-7840 (24-inch) have a robust straight-through paper path designed for heavy cardstock and poster board. They use Epson’s DURABrite® Ultra pigment inks, which are water-, smudge-, and fade-resistant.
Pros: Can handle very large Mylar bags. Built for heavy-duty use with professional-grade pigment inks.
Cons: Very large footprint and high cost. Still may require careful media setting adjustments to ensure adhesion.
Best for: Businesses that need to print on large-format Mylar bags or other oversized packaging.

4. Roland VersaStudio BN2 Series

Professional & Industrial Desktop Printer

Roland is a leader in the sign and graphics industry. The BN2 series is their desktop solution for printing on rigid and flexible materials.

Why it works: This is a true industrial printer built for printing on virtually anything—plastic, metal, wood, fabric, and of course, Mylar. It uses Eco-Sol MAX 2 ink, which is designed to adhere to non-porous surfaces without requiring a primer.
Pros: Unmatched durability and adhesion on specialty substrates. Extremely reliable for production environments.
Cons: Significant investment; priced for professional, high-volume use.
Best for: Print shops, packaging professionals, and businesses that require an industrial-grade solution for printing on Mylar and countless other materials.

5. Epson SureColor P-series (e.g., P700 / P900)

🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson SureColor P700
🏷️Check Price On Amazon – Epson SureColor P900

Best for Photographic Quality on Flat Bags

These are Epson’s flagship photo printers, renowned for their incredible color accuracy and detail.

Why it works: They use advanced UltraChrome PRO10 pigment inks that are extremely fade-resistant and offer a massive color gamut. They have a sturdy, straight-through rear feed that can handle thick media up to 1.5mm.
Pros: The absolute highest print quality you can get. Perfect for products where the image is the main selling point (e.g., artisanal goods, high-end merch).
Cons: Very expensive, both the printer and the ink. Not built for volume; best for flat bags that can be fed through the tray easily.
Best for: Photographers, artists, and creators who need museum-quality prints on Mylar for artistic or premium product packaging.

Inkjet Printers for Mylar Bag Printing: Comparison Table

Printer Model	Best For	Ink Type	Media Handling	Pros	Cons	Price Range*
Epson SureColor F-series (F170 / F570)	Businesses & individuals wanting a dedicated DTG & specialty printer	UltraChrome DG pigment ink (with white ink option)	Straight-through, clamshell design	Purpose-built, no mods, excellent adhesion & print quality	High upfront cost, F170 has small print area (11″x17″)	$$$$
Modified Epson EcoTank (ET-8550 / ET-15000)	DIY / prosumer users who can modify	Factory pigment ink (expandable with CISS & specialty inks)	Rear feed + straight paper path	Lower cost, high-capacity tanks, versatile media handling	Needs modification, warranty void risk	$$–$$$
Epson WorkForce WF-series (WF-7840 / WF-7210)	Wide-format, large Mylar bags	DURABrite Ultra pigment ink	Straight-through, supports heavy cardstock/poster board	Handles large formats, professional pigment inks, durable	Large footprint, may need media tweaks	$$–$$$
Roland VersaStudio BN2 Series	Professional / industrial printing	Eco-Sol MAX 2 solvent ink	Industrial-grade, prints on rigid & flexible substrates	Superior adhesion, prints on almost anything, built for production	Very expensive, industrial-level investment	$$$$$
Epson SureColor P-series (P700 / P900)	Photographic quality on flat bags	UltraChrome PRO10 pigment ink	Rear feed, thick media up to 1.5mm	Highest color accuracy, museum-quality detail	Expensive printer & ink, not for high volume	$$$$

💡 Price Range Key (general market level, varies by region & seller):

$ = Budget
$$ = Mid-range
$$$ = Upper-mid
$$$$ = Expensive
$$$$$ = Industrial/High investment

Key Considerations & Breakdown:

1. Ink is Everything:
For Mylar (a non-porous plastic surface), pigment-based inks are mandatory. Dye-based inks will smudge and never fully dry. Printers like the Roland use “solvent” inks, which are even more aggressive and durable on these surfaces.

2. The Modification Trade-Off:
Modifying an EcoTank with a Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS) filled with specialized pigment inks is a popular and cost-effective path. However, it requires technical confidence, voids the warranty, needs research to find the right ink, and involves a trial-and-error period.

3. Media Handling is Critical:
A straight paper path (from the rear to the front) is essential to avoid jamming on the thick, sometimes slippery Mylar material. The Epson F170’s clamshell design is arguably the best for this specific task.

4. Pre-Treatment and Curing:

Primer: Even with these printers, using an inkjet adhesion promoter spray on the Mylar bag before printing will significantly improve results.
Curing: Allow prints to cure for 24-48 hours after printing. Some users gently heat-set the ink with a heat gun (on a low setting from a safe distance) to improve durability and scratch resistance.

Recommendation:

For a business that needs a reliable, “ready-to-go” solution, the Epson SureColor F170 is the strongest choice.
For a hobbyist or small business willing to tinker, a modified Epson EcoTank ET-8550 offers incredible value and performance.
For an industrial setting requiring volume, large size, and maximum durability, the Roland VersaStudio BN2 is the professional benchmark.

Tips for Successful Printing on Mylar Bags

Printing on Mylar bags can be tricky, but with the right tips, you can achieve clear, professional results. Here are some helpful tips to get the best print quality on Mylar bags:

1. Adjust Printer Settings
Setting up your printer correctly is key. Go into your printer’s settings and choose a higher quality or “photo” mode. This setting usually gives you sharper, more detailed prints. Also, if your printer allows you to adjust for media thickness, set it for heavier or thicker materials. This helps the printer handle Mylar smoothly and reduces the risk of jams.

2. Use the Right Ink
Choose an ink type that works well on Mylar. Pigment-based inks are a great choice because they stick to non-porous surfaces and won’t smear. UV inks are also effective since they dry instantly under UV light. Avoid dye-based inks if possible, as they can smear and may not last on Mylar. Always check that your ink type matches the material for long-lasting results.

3. Pre-Test for Ink Adhesion
Before starting a full print run, do a test print on a sample Mylar bag. This lets you see if the ink adheres well or if adjustments are needed. Sometimes, minor tweaks in settings or drying time can make a big difference. Testing first helps you avoid wasting bags and ink.

4. Allow Extra Drying Time
Ink on Mylar bags can take longer to dry because the surface is non-absorbent. Allow extra drying time between prints to prevent smudging. For the best results, lay the bags flat and avoid stacking them until the ink is completely dry. If you’re using UV ink, drying is faster, but giving some extra time still ensures a clean finish.

5. Avoid Touching the Print Area
Mylar can be sensitive to smudges, especially when the ink is still wet. Try not to touch the printed area until the ink has dried completely. Fingerprints or smudges can affect the final look. If you need to handle the bag, hold it by the edges to keep the print area clean.

6. Use Proper Ventilation
Some inks, especially solvent and UV inks, release fumes that can be strong. Make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area. This helps with drying and keeps you safe while printing. If possible, use a fan or open windows to allow fresh air into the space.

7. Store Printed Bags Carefully
Once the bags are printed and dried, store them in a cool, dry place. Mylar bags can be sensitive to heat and sunlight, which might cause fading over time. Storing them properly keeps the colors vibrant and ensures the prints stay sharp for longer.

Following these tips can help you get high-quality prints on Mylar bags that are vibrant and long-lasting. With a bit of practice, you can create stunning designs that look professional and grab attention.

Conclusion

Printing on Mylar bags with an inkjet printer opens up a world of creative possibilities for custom packaging. Mylar bags are not only durable but also add a professional look to products, making them perfect for businesses wanting to stand out. By choosing the right printer, selecting the best ink, and following key printing tips, you can create high-quality, eye-catching designs that last. With the right approach, you’ll find that printing on Mylar is a straightforward process that can make your packaging more appealing and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I print directly on Mylar bags with any inkjet printer?
Not all inkjet printers are suitable for Mylar bags. It’s important to choose a model that handles thick materials and use the right ink, like pigment or UV ink, for the best results. Regular ink may not stick well and could smudge.

2. What type of ink is best for Mylar bag printing?
Pigment and UV inks work best on Mylar bags. Pigment inks provide bright, fade-resistant prints, while UV inks dry instantly under UV light, preventing smudging. Dye-based inks are not ideal as they can smear easily.

3. Do I need to pre-treat Mylar bags before printing?
Usually, no pre-treatment is needed for Mylar bags. However, it’s a good idea to do a test print to check how the ink adheres. Adjusting the printer settings can also improve ink adhesion on Mylar’s smooth surface.

4. How do I avoid smudges when printing on Mylar bags?
To avoid smudging, allow extra drying time for each print. Mylar doesn’t absorb ink, so prints may take longer to dry. For the best results, let each bag dry completely before handling or stacking them.

5. Can I use my regular ink for Mylar bags?
Dye-based inks found in many standard inkjet printers are not ideal for Mylar. These inks can smear or fade on non-porous surfaces. Pigment or UV inks are a better choice for long-lasting, smudge-proof prints.

6. What resolution should I use for printing on Mylar bags?
A high resolution, at least 1200 x 1200 dpi, is recommended for Mylar bags. This helps create sharp, clear images and text, making your design look professional and detailed.

7. Do printed Mylar bags need special storage?
Yes, store printed Mylar bags in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage helps prevent fading and keeps your prints looking fresh and vibrant over time.

8. Why choose Mylar bags over other packaging materials?
Mylar bags are strong, durable, and protect products from moisture and light. They’re also flexible for printing, allowing businesses to create custom designs that stand out on store shelves.