We R Memory Keepers Printmaker

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Innovative Printer

The We R Memory Keepers Printmaker has been making waves in the crafting world for its ability to let creators easily print customized designs at home. This revolutionary printer opens up so many possibilities for DIY projects, stationery, invitations, labels, and more.

But is the Printmaker worth the investment? How does it work? What can you make with it? This buying guide has the answers to all of your questions about the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker so you can decide if it’s the right addition for your craft room!

What is the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

The Printmaker is a groundbreaking home printer that allows you to print your own customized designs onto a variety of materials like cardstock, vinyl, iron-on transfer paper, acetate, and more. It uses an inkjet printing method to print your designs in full color onto printable substrates.

This printer was created by We R Memory Keepers, a popular brand amongst paper crafters and DIYers known for their innovative tools and accessories for memory keeping, scrapbooking, and more. The Printmaker combines their craft-focused expertise with the latest printing technology to offer users a new way to get creative and make customized prints at home.

Some key features of the Printmaker include:

• Compact size perfect for craft rooms and small spaces
• Ability to print customized designs in full color onto various materials
• Inkjet printing method for quality results
• Integrated software to optimize print quality
• Printable area of 8.5” x 11”
• Compatible with Windows and Mac
• Uses inexpensive ink cartridges

Whether you want to create custom stationery, unique home decor pieces, personalized gifts, or printable art for crafts, the Printmaker gives you the power to print exactly what you want out of your own home. Keep reading our buying guide to learn if it’s the right pick for you.

How Does the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker Work?

The Printmaker uses inkjet printing technology to print designs from your computer directly onto various materials like cardstock and vinyl. Here’s an overview of how it works:

First, you’ll design what you want to print using the software included with the Printmaker or any other design program. The Printmaker software has preloaded templates, fonts, and design elements to make it easy to create your own artwork.

Once your design file is ready, you’ll connect the Printmaker to your Windows or Mac computer with the included USB cable. Load the material you want to print onto into the feed tray of the printer. Special printable papers and vinyl sheets are made specifically for use with the Printmaker ink.

When you print from your computer, the file is sent to the Printmaker. The print head will move back and forth while spraying ink onto the material to recreate your design. The ink is specially formulated to permanently bond with the printable substrates.

An integrated feeding mechanism smoothly pulls the material through the printer during the printing process. The Printmaker can print a full 8.5” x 11” sheet of cardstock in about 90 seconds! Then your printed design comes out ready to use for any project.

It’s that easy to get professional quality results! The specially designed inks provide vibrant colors and crisp details on your designs. Just plug in, load your material, send your file, and let the Printmaker do the work!

Where Can I Buy the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

The Printmaker is sold exclusively from We R Memory Keepers and is available on their website at wermemorykeepers.com. It typically retails for $199.99 directly from the manufacturer.

Some tips for buying:

• Check the We R Memory Keepers site for availability of the Printmaker. Supply can be limited at times due to demand.
• Sign up for email updates from We R to get notified about restocks and sales if it is out of stock when you first check.
• Look for coupon codes! We R often offers sitewide discounts that apply to the Printmaker and related supplies.
• Consider bundle deals on the We R site that include the printer plus bonus materials to get started. These offer savings over buying separately.
• The Printmaker is not currently available from other major online retailers like Amazon or craft stores like Michael’s. We R Memory Keepers is the exclusive retailer.

Buying directly from the We R site ensures you’ll get the full manufacturer’s warranty, access to software updates, and the best bundle deals. While availability can be limited at times due to the popularity of this innovative printer, sign up for notifications so you’ll be the first to know when the Printmaker is back in stock!

What Materials Can the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker Print On?

One of the best features of the Printmaker is its ability to print not just on regular paper but on a wide variety of specialty materials for crafts and decor projects. Here are some of the most popular printable substrates to use:

• Printmaker Inkjet Cardstock – This premium cardstock is designed specifically for the Printmaker ink. It comes in several colors like white, kraft, and matte black.
• Printmaker Iron-On Transfer Paper – This lets you create customized t-shirt designs, tote bags, baby onesies and more! Just print your design and iron it onto fabric.
• Printable Vinyl – The Printmaker can print personalized vinyl decals for cars, tumblers, laptops, and any other smooth surface.
• Magnet Sheets – Print full color designs onto magnet sheets to make custom fridge magnets.
• Printmaker Acetate Film – Make labels, danglers, shaker card inserts and more on transparent acetate.
• Adhesive Foil – Foil sheets add a shiny, metallic background to printed designs for a unique look.
• Temporary Tattoo Paper – Yes, you can even print temporary tattoos!

Part of the fun is experimenting with all the cool printable materials the Printmaker can handle. We R Memory Keepers offers variety packs so you can try out different media.

How Do I Set Up the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

Setting up the Printmaker is quick and easy. Here are the basic steps:

1. Unpack the printer and remove any tape and protective packaging.
2. Plug in the power cord to an outlet and connect the USB cable from the printer to your computer.
3. Install the print driver and software from the included CD or download it from wermemorykeepers.com. Follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Windows users may need to restart their computer after the print driver installation.
5. Load paper into the bottom tray matching the guides to the paper size.
6. Open the lid and remove any foam blocks or tape inside the printer.
7. Insert the ink cartridges into the correct color slots and close the lid.
8. Open the print queue on your computer and align the print heads when prompted.
9. Run a test print! You should be ready to start printing onto any material.

Refer to the included manual for step-by-step instructions on getting set up. It’s easy to have the Printmaker unpacked, connected, loaded, and printing within 30 minutes!

Is the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker Compatible with Windows/Mac?

The Printmaker works great with both Windows-based PCs and Apple Mac computers.

For Windows, it’s compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10. The print driver will install automatically when you load the software CD.

For Mac, the Printmaker is compatible with Mac OS versions 10.6 to 10.15. You’ll install the print driver downloaded from We R Memory Keeper’s site.

We R Memory Keepers provides instructional support, troubleshooting tips, and software updates for both Windows and Mac users. Connecting via the included USB 2.0 cable, you can print from any graphics, photo editing, or document software on either operating system.

The integrated Printmaker software included with the printer is also fully compatible with both Windows and Mac. No matter what computer you have, you’ll be able to set up and use the Printmaker printer!

What Are the Reviews for the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

The Printmaker has earned very positive reviews for its ability to transform at-home crafting and DIY projects. Here’s a look at what reviewers are saying:

• “This printer is a game changer! The quality is amazing and it’s so easy to print anything I can dream up.”
• “I use it almost daily to print labels, photos, iron-ons, and more. It has paid for itself with how much I use it.”
• “The magnetic sheets are my favorite printable! Photos come out crisp and clear. So fun for crafts.”
• “It took a little trial and error to get print settings just right for certain materials but the results are awesome.”
• “Being able to create custom fabric transfers opened up so many possibilities. Much better quality than using an inkjet.”
• “I love that I can print directly onto cardstock. No more gluing paper onto projects. It saves so much time!”
• “This makes printing any design a breeze. I can’t wait to start a custom stationery business thanks to the Printmaker.”

Overall, crafters agree that the Printmaker delivers high-quality prints onto an amazing variety of materials, making it easy to create fully customized projects. The ability to print exactly what you want without limitations gives this machine very high marks.

How to Troubleshoot Common Issues with the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker

While the Printmaker is designed to provide reliable performance, you may occasionally run into problems. Here are some troubleshooting tips for common issues:

Printing is faint or has gaps: The print heads likely need cleaning. Open the utility menu and run a clean cycle. Or use a soft dry cloth to gently wipe the print heads.

Colors look wrong: Make sure you have the correct ink cartridges installed and that they are full. Open the ink menu and check the levels. Replace empty cartridges.

Paper jam: Turn off the machine and gently pull out the jammed paper from the feed tray. Make sure guides are aligned to paper size before reloading. Avoid glossy/thick papers.

Printer isn’t recognized: Check USB connections between the printer and computer. Try a different USB port. Reinstall the print driver software.

Odd lines/marks: Run an alignment from the utility menu. If issue persists, gentle clean the print heads as they may be clogged.

Feed issues: Confirm guides are flush with paper stack edges. Try adjusting the feed pressure dial. Wipe the feed rollers with a clean damp cloth.

Refer to the troubleshooting sections in the user manual for step-by-step fixes. Contact We R Memory Keepers customer support for any issues not resolved by the troubleshooting tips.

What are the Best Projects for the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

The possibilities are endless when you can print customized designs at home! Here are some of the most popular projects for the Printmaker:

• Wall art – Print high-quality photos, motivational quotes, or kids’ artwork onto cardstock to frame.
• Home decor – Personalize pillows, mirrors, vases, and more with printed details.
• Party decorations – Make banners, garlands, and signs for a customized party theme.
• Apparel – Print iron-on transfers for t-shirts, tote bags, aprons and more.
• Stationery – Design your own stylish stationery with printed designs for letters, notecards, and invitations.
• Stickers – Print custom die cut stickers for planners, scrapbooks, gift wrap, and more.
• Magnets – Make personalized magnets for the fridge or magnetic clips for the office.
• Gift wrap – Create wrapping paper, gift tags, and labels with the recipient’s photos or interests.
• Skincare – Print custom labels and designs for soaps, candles, lotions, and other homemade body care.
• Accessories – Print photos and art onto phone cases, laptop sleeves, guitar picks, and other accessories.

Anything you can print on cardstock, vinyl, acetate, and more can become a customized creation! Let your imagination run wild with the possibilities.

Can the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker Print Custom Designs?

Absolutely! The ability to print completely custom designs you make yourself is what makes the Printmaker so versatile.

You have a few options for creating and printing custom art:

• Use the drag-and-drop Printmaker software included with the printer to design your own stuff. It has templates, fonts and images to assemble ideas quickly.
• Design with any program like Photoshop, Canva, Silhouette Studio, Cricut Design Space, etc. As long as you can save as a .jpeg, .png., or .pdf, you can print it.
• Draw or hand letter your design on paper, scan it, and print copies from your computer.
• Take your own photos to print. Capture memories for framed prints, magnets, personal stationery and more.
• Find free clip art, fonts, graphics online to customize. Look for printable licenses.

Anything you can get into a digital file, you can send to the Printmaker to reproduce. All you need is creativity and inspiration to design exactly what you want to print for any occasion!

What is the Price of the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

The Printmaker retails for $199.99 when purchased directly from the We R Memory Keepers website. This represents the most current price as of this writing.

Here’s an overview of pricing considerations:

• MSRP is $199.99 for the printer unit alone without any extras.
• Bundles that include supplies like paper and vinyl start around $249.99.
• Accessory kits for specific materials cost extra if not in a bundle.
• Replacement ink cartridges are around $25 per color.
• Specialty printable media like magnets and acetate range from $5-$20.
• Sign up for email and check for sitewide sales and coupons from We R for potential savings.
• Consider cost per use. With frequent printing, the value increases. Infrequent use means a higher effective cost.

For the specialized functionality of printing onto materials beyond just paper, the Printmaker offers excellent value. Cost per use can be very low if you utilize it frequently for your craft and DIY projects. Take advantage of bundles and supplies on sale to maximize savings!

How to Update the Software for the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker

To gain access to new features and optimizations for print quality, you’ll want to periodically update the Printmaker software. Here’s how:

1. On your computer, go to the We R Memory Keepers website.
2. Click on the Support tab and select Software Updates.
3. Find the update file for the Printmaker and click to download.
4. Locate the downloaded file and double click to open. Follow prompts.
5. For Mac users, the software will be in a .dmg file. Open and drag to applications.
6. Allow the update installation process to complete. Do not interrupt it.
7. You may need to restart your computer afterwards.
8. Open the software and check the version to confirm it updated.
9. Run a test print and make any needed print adjustments.

Ideally check the We R site for software updates every couple of months. Updates improve functionality, apply bug fixes, and keep your printer running optimally. Be sure to follow instructions carefully during installations. Keeping software up to date is important for best performance!

What Accessories Are Available for the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

One benefit of the Printmaker being sold exclusively by We R Memory Keepers is the wide variety of official accessories designed for the printer. Here are some of the most useful add-ons:

• Replacement ink cartridges – Genuine Printmaker ink is specially formulated. Stock up so you never run out!
• Printable media packs – Convenient sets with cardstock, vinyl, magnets, etc. Try them all!
• Laminator – Seal your printed creations with custom laminate finish.
• Foil quill – Add metallic foil accents to printed projects for an elegant touch.
• Cutting machines – Compatible electronic die cutters to cut out printed shapes.
• Perforation blades – Add professionally perforated edges to printed materials.
• Corner rounder – Round the corners on cards, signs, photos, and more.
• Bind-it-all – Turn printed cards and paper into customized notebooks.
• 3D embossing folder – Emboss paper with texture and dimension after printing.

Browse the Printmaker accessories section on We R Memory Keepers to take your printed projects to the next level with handy tools!

How to Clean and Maintain the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker

Like any printer, the Printmaker functions best when kept clean. Follow these tips:

• Wipe the exterior with a dry soft cloth to remove dust and debris.
• Keep the interior parts and feed rollers free of ink and paper dust buildup by gently wiping with a damp cloth.
• Print a test sheet at least once a week if not printing regularly. Keeps ink flowing.
• Leave the lid open if not printing for long periods. Helps reduce condensation and clogs.
• Run monthly cleaning cycles using the Utility menu and plain paper.
• Replace ink cartridges immediately when empty. Never let ink run dry.
• Always turn off properly using the power button. Avoid unplugging mid-print.
• Keep out of direct sunlight and away from extreme temps and humidity.
• Ensure print heads and feed rollers are dry before closing lid and storage.

With periodic cleaning and proper care, your Printmaker will provide years of reliable service and high-quality prints! Be gentle, keep it clean, and replace supplies promptly.

What are the Differences Between Models of the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

So far We R Memory Keepers has released two generations of the popular Printmaker:

Printmaker (Original)

• Released in 2016
• Smaller 6.75” x 9” maximum print size
• Uses 4 ink cartridges (CMYK)
• Unidirectional printing
• Only compatible with Windows

Printmaker Pro (Current)

• Released in 2020
• Expanded 8.5” x 11” maximum print size
• Uses 5 ink cartridges (CMYKK)
• Bidirectional printing for faster speeds
• Compatible with Windows and Mac

The Pro model has better print quality with an extra gray ink cartridge. Faster print speeds, larger printable area, and Mac compatibility make it the preferred choice. The original model is discontinued but can still be found at some retailers. Always check you are getting the newer Pro version for the full feature set!

How Long Does the Ink Last in the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

Printmaker ink cartridges are rated to print approximately 165 pages at 5% coverage. Here are some factors that affect ink usage:

• The more filled-in the design, the more ink used per print. Lighter coverage extends ink.
• Using primarily one or two colors heavily depletes those cartridges faster.
• Glossy finishes tend to use a little more ink than matte papers.
• Draft print quality uses ink faster; Best quality provides more prints per cartridge.
• Frequent cleaning cycles consume extra ink. Only do when needed.
• Infrequent printing can lead to clogs and waste from disuse.
• The gray ink tends to run lower more quickly if used often.

For average use focused on printing cardstock for paper crafts, each cartridge should last around 1-2 months. Have backup cartridges available for when the printer indicates running low. Check design files to minimize unnecessary dense colors for the best ink efficiency.

Can the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker Print in Color?

Absolutely! The ability to print in full color is one of the Printmaker’s biggest benefits.

It comes with 5 cartridges:

• Cyan (light blue)
• Magenta (pink)
• Yellow
• Black
• Gray

Mixing these 5 inks allows the printer to produce millions of color combinations for photographic prints, graphics, and more.

Colors print very accurately matched to design files. The ink is specially formulated to produce vibrant, saturated hues when used with Printmaker papers and vinyls.

You can print anything from black and white sketches to fully saturated photos in the highest quality settings. Play around with color profiles and adjustments in the software for optimal processing of light and dark tones.

The color printing enables so many possibilities like printing photos, nature images, colorful illustrations, and anything else you can imagine in perfect color!

Are There Any Tutorials for Using the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

We R Memory Keepers provides several great resources to help you get the most out of the Printmaker:

• Instruction manual – Thorough directions for setup, use, and troubleshooting.
• Project books – These books have templates and step-by-step projects designed specifically for the Printmaker.
• Blog – The We R blog has several posts demonstrating Printmaker projects and tips.
• YouTube videos – Find videos from We R and users covering everything from unpacking to cleaning to print projects.
• Social media – Follow their accounts on Facebook and Instagram for more ideas and inspiration.
• Printmaker software – The built-in software has templates, clip art, fonts, and helpful tools for designing.
• Skillshare classes – Find online classes teaching Printmaker techniques.
• Retailer workshops – Some craft stores offer in-person workshops focused on the Printmaker.

With so many tutorials available, you’ll have all the help you need to master designing and printing amazing projects with your Printmaker! Stay engaged with the We R community for continuous learning.

How to Connect the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker to a Smartphone

While the Printmaker doesn’t offer direct wireless printing from mobile devices, you can still use your smartphone creatively:

• Design on your phone – Use apps to design printables and save image files to print from your computer.
• Access cloud files – Save or store designs in cloud storage like Dropbox to access on any device.
• Email designs – Email image files from your phone to your computer for printing.
• Use mobile apps – Apps like Printmaker Pro allow you to prepare files on your phone and sync to the desktop software.
• QR codes – Generate a QR code to quickly access a web file containing your design file.
• Convert images – Use your phone’s camera to take a photo, then convert to a printable file format with apps.

While not directly compatible with smartphones, the innovative file sharing and syncing options make integrating your phone into a Printmaker design workflow easy!

What are the Warranty Terms for the We R Memory Keepers Printmaker?

The Printmaker comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty when purchased new from We R Memory Keepers.

This covers defects in materials and construction. Normal wear, usage damage, accidents, repairs from anyone except a We R technician, and modifications void the warranty.

If an issue arises from a manufacturer defect within 1 year of purchase, contact We R Memory Keepers customer support to start a warranty claim. You will need to provide proof of purchase.

If the issue meets warranty terms, We R will provide replacement parts or services needed to fix the problem.

Extended third party warranties are also available if you want protection beyond the 1 year term. Protect your investment with quick resolution of any issues!