Labeling DVDs

[Shady08]

Hey guys,

I was wondering what you guys use to label your DVDs? I have been using lightscribe for the last year, but want to change it up and try printing directly on the DVDs. Before light scribed I used the sticky labels that you print out and stick on your DVD.

Do you guys have a recommendation for a solid printer that prints directly on the DVDs. I don't mind buying a used one off ebay or whatever, my price range is $50-$75. Also where is a good cheap place to get the DVD media?

Thanks!

[Kampar]

Sorry - missed responding to this earlier. I think quite a few people on the site use Canon Pixma inkets to print labels directly onto DVD media. I have one and it works well and is not too ink-hungry. So my recommendation would be to go for a Canon model that has the CD/DVD tray feature.

Don't bother with the CD label Canon printing software though - go for something like Undercover XP (freeware) as its easier to use and gives more consistent results.

Regarding media, it depends what you are looking for. Some printable DVD surfaces perform better than others and there are different types of finishes available.

I always used to use Verbatim 16x -R Full Face printables and then sprayed them with a finishing coat to seal them. About a year ago I switched to Taiyo Yuden 16x -R Watershield printables. These latter discs print a really glossy finish directly from a standard inkjet printer (no special inks required) and are waterproof a few hours after printing - it's an incredibly cool technology that gives a stunning look to your discs, however it costs ... in the UK they are about 2.5x the cost of a standard Verbatim printable DVD).

Not sure where the best place to get them in the U.S. is - try doing a comparison search for the Verbatim full face printables as they are fairly common and should give you a good comparison between sites.

[Shady08]

what kind of spray do you use on the Verbatim?

[HelloShaun]

Floppy Disks - Label Kits - Spray - Spiders - Plastic Tubs - CD Pens

Pressit fixative spray.

This is just an example, you can get gloss and matte versions, that 400ml can will be good for about 200 discs as only a light spray is needed, just do it outdoors (I set up a table in the shed).

You could also try fixative sprays from Art shops (the type for charcoal/pencil drawing) or even hairspray, BUT also do a sample spray to test for adverse reactions, not just immediate but leave the test item for a week or 2 to see what happens over time, also check the playability of the test disc.