Paper Selection for Best Results
Standard Paper Weights
- 20lb (75gsm) - Standard Copy Paper: Perfect for everyday use, lined paper, and grid templates. Most common and cost-effective option.
- 24lb (90gsm) - Heavy Copy Paper: Better for handwriting practice and calligraphy templates. Reduces ink bleed-through.
- 28-32lb (105-120gsm) - Cardstock: Ideal for music staff paper, art templates, and durable templates that will be used frequently.
Paper Types by Template
Lined & Grid Paper
Standard 20lb copy paper works perfectly. Consider 24lb for heavy writing.
Music Staff Paper
Use 24-28lb paper for better durability. Bright white enhances staff line visibility.
Calligraphy Practice
24lb+ paper prevents ink bleeding. Smooth finish is preferred over textured.
Dot Grid & Bullet Journal
20-24lb paper ideal. Consider cream or off-white for reduced eye strain.
Printer Settings for Perfect Results
Quality Settings
- Print Quality: Use “High” or “Best” quality for fine lines and precise grids
- Color Mode: Black & white for most templates, unless using colored guidelines
- Paper Type Setting: Match your printer's paper type to your actual paper
- Print Speed: Choose “Slow” or “Quality” over “Fast” for better line precision
Scaling and Margins
Important: Always print at 100% scale (no shrinking) to maintain accurate measurements. Our templates are designed with proper margins already included.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Lines Appear Faded or Broken
- Check ink/toner levels - low levels cause inconsistent lines
- Clean print heads if using inkjet printer
- Increase print quality setting
- Use “Plain Paper” or “Bond Paper” setting instead of “Auto”
Grid Lines Don't Align
- Ensure printer is set to 100% scale (not “Fit to Page”)
- Check that paper is loaded straight in the tray
- Verify paper size setting matches actual paper (A4 vs Letter)
- Clean paper rollers if paper is skewing during printing
Text or Lines Cut Off
- Our templates include proper margins - avoid adding extra margins in print dialog
- Select “Borderless” printing if your printer supports it
- Check that paper size setting is correct
Printer-Specific Tips
Inkjet Printers
- Allow ink to dry completely before stacking papers
- Use “Plain Paper” setting for most templates
- Consider draft mode for test prints to save ink
- Print one page first to test alignment
Laser Printers
- Excellent for precise lines and grids
- Can handle heavier papers (up to 32lb) easily
- Less likely to smudge - ideal for handwriting templates
- More consistent output for large batches
Cost-Saving Tips
Smart Printing Strategies
- Print Multiple Copies: Generate several pages at once when you find the perfect settings
- Use Draft Mode for Testing: Test layouts and customizations in draft mode first
- Buy Paper in Bulk: Standard copy paper is much cheaper in reams of 500 sheets
- Consider Double-Sided: For practice sheets that don't require premium paper
- Printer Maintenance: Regular cleaning extends printer life and maintains quality
Professional Results Checklist
Before You Print:
Paper Preparation
- ☐ Select appropriate paper weight
- ☐ Check paper is loaded correctly
- ☐ Ensure paper tray is clean
- ☐ Fan paper stack to prevent sticking
Printer Settings
- ☐ Set to High/Best quality
- ☐ Verify 100% scale
- ☐ Match paper type setting
- ☐ Check ink/toner levels
Storage and Organization
Once you've printed your perfect templates:
- Store Flat: Keep templates in a folder or binder to prevent curling
- Label Clearly: Mark different template types and settings used
- Create Master Copies: Keep one pristine copy of each template as a reference
- Digital Backup: Save your custom settings as bookmarks for easy reprinting
Need More Help?
Still having issues with printing? Our comprehensive guides cover specific techniques for each template type.