1.  Please describe The Perfect Printing Pouch and how to use it.

DESCRIPTION: The Perfect Printing Pouch is the solution for printing on difficult surfaces with an ink jet printer, markers, gel pens or stamping dye ink.  It  eliminates smearing, bleeding, and resisting on all kinds of vellum and other materials including shiny papers, textured cardstock, transparencies, twill tape, ribbon, muslin fabric, shrink plastic, wood, postage stamps, mulberry paper and more.  It also dries the ink quickly.

The Perfect Printing Pouch can be described as a felt 'ravioli' filled with a special formula of acid-free, talc-free, non-toxic powders. It comes in two styles and four color combinations.  The Original is about 2�x3� and is held upright to neatly treat smaller areas such as titles and journaling boxes.  The Strap�n�Tap is 3�x3.5�, lays flat, and makes treating larger surfaces like whole sheets of paper faster and easier. It's perfect for wedding invitations and baby announcements. Both styles are lined to prevent messy powder contact with hands. The MSRP for the Original Pouch is $5.95 and $9.95 for the Strap�n�Tap.

USE: Prior to printing, you treat the printing surface by lightly tapping the pouch onto the printing surface to release the powders. The pouch is then used to evenly spread the fine coating of powder across the printing surface.  The powder bond the ink to the surface while it speeds drying.

2.  What is 'vellum'?

Vellum is a slick, translucent paper which looks great for titles and journaling in scrapbooks, and adds elegance and whimsy to cards. While some vellums are sold specifically for ink jet printers, most of the colorful, pearlescent, metallic, coated, or embossed vellums are not ink jet friendly. In olden days, vellum was made from animal skins, but today it is a paper product.

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3.  Why would I need The Perfect Printing Pouch?

1.  You like the look of printing on vellum and shiny papers, but your results are imperfect. 

2.  you were told that imperfect, inconsistent printing is to be expected when printing on slick surfaces like vellum and shiny papers.It was suggested  that you try a different brand of paper, ink or to use the �right� side of the paper.

3.  You've tried to print on patterned, embossed vellum but the ink won't stick to any of the patterns.

4.  You've tried to stamp or use your printer on materials such as twill tape, satin ribbon and muslin, mulberry/tissue papers or wood, but.the ink bleeds.

5.  You'd like to try to print on surfaces like flocked, basketball bumpy, or acrylic papers, but it doesn't look good.

6.  You've tried to print on transparencies or shrink plastic but the ink beads up.

7.  You print on textured cardstock, and the ink doesn't get into the nooks and crannies.

8. You don�t have special vellum markers and gel pens and yours bubble and smear on vellum and shiny papers.

9. Your stamping  on vellum looks okay, but it smears and takes so long to dry.

10. You get frustrated and waste lots of time and money reprinting your work, and you want perfect printing to be easy, neat and affordable.

The Perfect Printing Pouch improves most any papercrafts where your printing is less than perfect. This include scrapbook titles and journaling blocks, embellishments, baby shower and wedding invitations, birth and graduation announcements, party invitations, holiday cards, and altered art projects.

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4.  Does The Perfect Printing Pouch really improve printing on difficult surfaces?

Yes!  A sticky-backed vellum, recommended for laser printing only by the manufacturer because it prints so poorly with an ink jet printer, prints perfectly when treated with the pouch. 'Pearlescent Swirl', an almost unprintable wax coated, textured paper prints fine with the pouch as does a bumpy, basketball paper.  Whenever you find a printing challenge, try the Perfect Printing Pouch!

Note: Just because you can use your printer to print perfectly on most any surface, doesn�t mean you should. Tortillas are delicious and may even be printable but your printer was designed for paper. Treat your printer with care and use some restraint.  If you want to print on wood, use a marker.  Wood just isn�t a good idea for inkjet printers!

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5.  What kind of printer should The Perfect Printing Pouch be used with?

The pouch can be used with any brand of ink jet printer on surfaces which cause the ink to resist, smear, bleed, or dry too slowly.

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6.  Is The Perfect Printing Pouch helpful only for printing with inkjet printers?

No.  The Perfect Printing Pouch improves printing and speeds drying with many inks.  There is no need to purchase a whole new set of �vellum markers� since the pouch makes writing with markers perfect.  Customers are using the pouch with gel pens, dye ink for rubber stamping projects, and to stop permanent markers from bleeding into wood. We'd love to hear what you can print on now.

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7.  Will The Perfect Printing Pouch hurt my printer?

Here's what Epson Printers says about the pouch:

Hot tip:

    For any vellums you encounter which resist being printed, we recommend you try �The Perfect Printing Pouch.�  It is a pouch filled with a formula of acid-free, talc-free, non-toxic powders.   Prior to printing, lightly tap the pouch over the area where you wish to print to release the powder onto the vellum surface.  The powder makes the ink adhere to the paper and speeds drying.  It works well on patterned, coated, and colored vellum as well as on many glossy, textured, handmade and coated papers.  We recommend that after using the pouch, run a plain sheet of paper through your printer to remove any excess powder from the inside of your printer.  Available online at www.scraperfect.com or by calling 866-644-4435.

~ Reprinted from the Epson Print Lab Series Booklet

�Scrapbook Projects, 2004�

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8.  Does The Perfect Printing Pouch work on transparencies made for copiers?

Yes, but it may require an extra step.  Although the pouch may improve the print quality on transparency film, a spray fixative is necessary to prevent the ink from rubbing off. After treating the transparency with the pouch and printing on normal settings, let the ink dry thoroughly.  To set the ink, lightly spray the printed transparency with the fixative spray . In spite of the fact that you will be able to see the powder, it may not be noticeable on your project.  However, if  you want to remove the powder, use a soft paint or make-up brush after the ink is completely dry before spraying the fixative.  

Note: Polyester film, such as film negatives and �write-on� transparencies are acid free and archivally safe. Most ink jet transparencies are treated with acid to create the matte surface and are not acid free. Copier films, while acid free may have a non-archivally safe coating. If archivally-safety is important to you, use uncoated �write on� film, or make sure the film specifies �archivally-safe�. You may still choose to use copier film knowing that it is acid-free but may not be archivally safe, or to use inkjet transparencies which may be neither acid-free, nor archivally safe.

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9.  What's the weirdest surface you've printed on with your printer?

Hmmm... Bake & Bend Polymer Clay or Makin�s Clay.  Users should be aware that printers were not designed to print on clay, and ScraPerfect takes no responsibility for misuse of your equipment. That said, If you choose to print on bendy polymer clay, roll it as thin as cardstock and bake until it�s totally flexible. Adhere it to printer paper with tape along all the edges of the clay. Treat with the pouch, print, and then spritz with a fixative to set the ink.

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10.  Why does The Perfect Printing Pouch comes in different colors?

The different colors of the pouch are for fun not function as the contents of the pouches are all the same. Since we believe �variety is the spice of life� and �to each her own�, we make it available in an assortment of colors. (Purple lovers rejoice!)

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11.  How long does The Perfect Printing Pouch last?

Since very little is used in each application, it lasts a very long time.  It's hard to say how long as it depends upon how much and how often it is used so It could last 6 months, a year or more. We recommended the plastic bag for storage

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12.  Should I select a �transparency, economy, draft, or fast� printer setting or use a heat gun and embossing powder so the ink doesn't smear?

No. Use the pouch and set the printer for plain paper and normal print quality.

In trying to speed drying and reduce smearing, the other settings lay down the least amount of ink possible. If you want the dark, full bold lettering and still have quick drying ink, use the pouch. The pouch contains a drying agent so you will not have to use a heat gun or do anything special to speed the drying.

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13.  Some people say they have no problems printing on vellum. Why do I?

First, some people haven't yet run into difficulty if they haven�t tried fancier papers such as pearly vellums or mulberry paper, and some people say don't think they have a problem but they don�t realize their printing could be greatly improved.  Secondly, there are significant differences between ink  and paper brands in how they work and how long they take to dry.  Thirdly, different ink types yield very different results. One customer only would purchase office supply vellum because it was the only one which gave her no problems; since discovering the pouch she is ecstatic to be able to use any pretty vellum she finds.

And if you think you have problems with vellum today, let history give you some perspective:

Printing on parchment is sometimes troublesome because of the animal fat that remains in the parchment. By rubbing the sheet over with a piece of cotton, dampened with purified benzine, previous to printing, a good impression can be had.  In 1902,  William Bowden from Kelmscott Press, suggested, �It is necessary that the vellum should have just a little more than a suspicion of dampness.   Well wet down half a ream of good stout white paper (equivalent in weight to 60 lb. demy). This should be well turned for about 3 or 4 days, and kept in a damp cellar.

When the vellums are to be printed, this paper should be brought out, and a skin put in about the middle; a flat board should be placed on top, and a ream of paper on top to act as a weight.  After the skin has been between the damp sheets from 30 to 45 seconds, it should be printed at once and not waved in the air more than can be helped.  Print the rough side of the vellum first on the inner forme. This is important as the skins spoil on the rough side more frequently than on the smooth.  It is best to work off both sides of the skin in black first, before printing the red, as red ink has a great tendency to run on damp skin. The red should be printed when the skin is quite dry.�

~ Oscar Henry Harpel from Harpel's Typograph, In 1870,

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14.  Any suggestions for printing if I don�t use The Perfect Printing Pouch?

TIP 1: Try printing on transparency setting as this puts out a lot less ink.  

DRAWBACK: The printing will not be perfect, bold or crisp, and the ink may still dry slowly.

TIP 2:  Use vellum made specifically for inkjet printers or office supply vellum which often prints fairly well.

DRAWBACK: Inkjet vellum can only be made in plain pastels...no pearl, embossed, or metallic coating. No sparkle! Also, inkjet vellum tends to be more expensive and still takes a long time to dry.

TIP 3: Use the "right side" of the vellum. If you can find a less shiny side, use it. 

DRAWBACK:  You will probably be frustrated trying to find that side and waste a good deal of vellum in the process.

TIP 4: Don't use big, wide fonts as thinner lines won't show the resisting as much.

DRAWBACK: If you want big, bold fonts for your title, who wants to compromise?

TIP 5: Since the ink will smear when it's wet, don�t touch it until it is totally dry or use embossing powder and a heat gun.

DRAWBACK:  Waiting to use your vellum--sometimes for hours or days--can be a drag.  And while embossing can be attractive, who wants to have to do this everytime you print on vellum?

TIP 6: Buy markers specifically made for vellum and stamp ink specifically designed to stick to more difficult surfaces

DRAWBACK:  Buying additonal special inks and markers can be costly, and your storage space may be limited.

TIP 7: Buy pre-printed vellum, transparency film, ribbon and twill tape.

DRAWBACK:  Pre-printed supplies are expensive, aren�t personalized, and when you buy packs of quotes, you may find some you love and throw away the rest (or forever store them).

TIP 8: Buy inkjet transparency film for printing on.

DRAWBACK:  Inkjet transparencies may not be acid-free and the ones that are may be expensive and difficult to find. (While Polyester film, such as film negatives and �write-on� transparencies are acid free and archivally safe, most ink jet transparencies are treated with acid to make the matte surface and are not acid free. If archival safety is important to you, make sure the inkjet film specifies archivally-safe.

TIP 9: Buy shrink plastic specifically made for inkjet printers or use sand paper to rough up the surface so the ink adheres better.

DRAWBACK:  Inkjet shrink plastic may be less commonly available and more expensive. You may already have non-inkjet shrink plastic in your child�s supplies and while sanding helps, the surface may still resist the ink.

TIP 10: Reserve mulberry paper, shiny holographic papers, cool acrylic-coated, flocked papers, other specialty papers, clay and wood for backgrounds and embellishments and don�t try to print on them.

DRAWBACK:  Limiting your usage means you�ll have fewer opportunities to use these cool materials.

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15.  What are the Steps for Inkjet Printing on Vellum, Transparencies, and Other Difficult Surfaces:

1. Design title, journaling or message using word processing or specialty software. 

     HINT: If you do not need a whole sheet of vellum, focus on the font and size but do not worry about location on your page. Print out title on inkjet paper. Cut vellum or printing substrate to desired size and adhere it to the paper directly over the printing with a temporary adhesive, such as spray adhesive or masking tape.  Spray adhesive is recommended on vellum, ribbon and and fabrics, whereas tape is preferred for delicate, stiff or thick materials. If a spray adhesive is used, it may remain tacky enough to go onto your project after printing without additional adhesive.

2. Tap Tap Tap the Perfect Printing Pouch.  Gently wipe the surface with the pouch to evenly distribute the powders onto the printing surface. Shake or blow to remove any excess powder.

3. Make sure your printer is set for normal paper and print quality. The transparency setting puts out a minimum of ink but you want it bold and dark. Send the paper through the printer so it prints directly onto the treated surface.

4. Let dry. Although you may be able to work with it immediately, the printing can be smeared if not totally dry.

     HINT: If the powder is too visible after printing, try one of these methods: 

                  * Simply feather the edge of the powdered area with your finger or soft cloth.

                  * Remove powder with a soft paintbrush or make-up brush. 

                  * Dab with a damp cloth or baby wipe if using  waterproof ink on slick surfaces,

5. At this point although the printing looks good, it may rub off from transparencies, clay, and other very slick, non-porous surfaces.  To set the ink permanently, spritz with a spray fixative.

ScraPerfect is not responsible for damage caused to your printer resulting from printing onto materials not specifically recommended for your printer. 

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16.  Where can I buy The Perfect Printing Pouch and how much does it cost?

The Original Pouch retails for $5.95.  The Strap�n�Tap retails for $9.95.  They are made in Oregon and can be ordered fromScraPerfect www.scraperfect.com or 866-644-4435, through other online stores, or ask your local scrapbook store to order it!

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17.  Can you suggest other ideas/tips for using vellum?

ADHESIVE:  Spray adhesives are quick and easy, do not show through the vellum, and have very little overspray.  Bonus: If you use a spray to temporarily affix the vellum to the printer paper before applying the pouch, you can usually remove the vellum after printing and place it directly onto your project without any additional adhesive. Spray the vellum over a trash can or newspaper. (We prefer Creative imagination �Scrappers Spray�, although the brand is not critical.)  Of course you can use mechanical means to attach vellum such as sewing, using eyelets or brads, or hiding the adhesive behind buttons, stickers or other embellishments.

ADDING COLOR TO VELLUM: Some brands of color printer inks work much better than others.  Nonetheless, there are many other pretty ways of adding color.

Use chalk, rub-ons, powders; markers; gel pens; watercolor crayons, pencils or paints (but use liquid sparingly to avoid curling); colored pencils or crayons; and paint. Experiment with putting color on the back side of the sheet to avoid smearing the printer ink.

DRY EMBOSSING:

A very pretty effect can be created by dry embossing vellum!

Try placing the vellum on top of a soft surface like craft foam or a mouse pad and then use a stylus to draw, either freehand or following a pattern or template.  This is great for adding leaf veins, hearts, stars, swirls and other details to your vellum.

Print over a stamped background:

Stamp a background onto vellum to make your own patterned vellum to complement a holiday, season or event. Let dry.  Apply The Perfect Printing Pouch.  Send back through through the printer to print over stamped background.  The Perfect Printing Pouch prevents the stamp ink from resisting the printer ink.

MORE COOL THINGS:

Try printing on both sides of the vellum.

Make translucent envelopes to be able to see the contents.

Overlap different pieces or colors of vellum.

Mask photos to hide unwanted parts with vellum and rip a �window�  for your subject.

Tear vellum to get soft edges. Chalk the edges for an even prettier effect.

Print on vellum and use a photo as a subtle background behind the words.

Print a photo on vellum

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18.  Is there a disclaimer? 

Yes. The company is not responsible for damages caused by improper usage or printing on surfaces not recommended by your printer manufacturer.

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19.  Please tell about Amy Roszak, the creator of The Perfect Printing Pouch?

Amy Roszak was born in New York City.  She earned her masters in science at Oregon State University in 1980, and was a U.S. Forest Service hydrologist before becoming a teacher.  She taught mathematics for 14 years during which time she won the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry/Tectronics award for teaching.  She is a married, stay-at-home mom with a daughter and a son and has been an avid scrapbooker for about since 1999.

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