Printing on Laser Waterslide Decal Paper with HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw

[TDinAZ]

I purchased a HP Color Laser Jet Pro MFP 3301cdw for its capability to print white color. I am trying to print on Laser Printer Waterslide Decal paper but the printer will not print the image. I sometimes will get a faded small portion of the image. I have tried about every setting for media type. I got one somewhat decent print after numerous attempts printing over the same piece of paper, but it was all dark. I am able to print a beautiful clear image on normal white paper with any media type setting. Any suggestions on what media type I should be using.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @TDinAZ,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

Thanks for explaining your situation clearly. Here’s the key point: HP Color LaserJet printers, including the MFP 3301cdw, cannot print white ink because they use CMYK toner (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). White is achieved by leaving areas unprinted so the paper shows through. On white paper, this works fine, but on transparent or dark decal paper, the printer cannot add white because there’s no white toner.

Why You See Faded or Partial Prints

• Waterslide decal paper is often glossy or transparent, which can cause toner adhesion issues.
• Laser printers expect standard paper or coated media rated for laser printing.
• Printing multiple passes darkens the image but won’t add white; it just layers CMYK toner.

Media Type Settings

For decal paper:

• Use Labels, Heavy Glossy, or Cardstock as the media type.
• Set Print Quality to Best.
• Enable Manual Feed if the paper is thicker or coated.

Practical Solutions

1. If You Need White Printing
   • HP Color LaserJet cannot do this. You’d need: 
     • A printer with white toner (e.g., OKI or Ghost White Toner kits).
     • Or print on white decal paper and trim carefully.
        
2. Improve Toner Adhesion
   • Use the Heavy Glossy or Labels setting.
   • Feed one sheet at a time.
   • Ensure decal paper is rated for laser printers (not inkjet).
      
3. Alternative Approach
   • Print your design with a white background on white decal paper.
   • For transparent decals, consider adding a white underlayer manually or using speciality white toner solutions.
      

💡 Why Normal Paper Prints Perfectly? Because the printer relies on the paper’s white surface for highlights. On transparent media, those areas appear blank.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat