How to Print in Color

Turning color on

Most printers default to color mode. If yours is set to grayscale from a previous job, open the print dialog's Properties/Preferences and set Color mode back to "Color" or "Automatic."

For accurate colors

• Use the paper type setting that matches what's loaded — photo paper settings lay down more ink and print slower, which looks wrong on plain paper and wastes ink.
• Let prints dry flat for a few minutes before stacking them — fresh ink can smear or transfer between pages.
• If colors look consistently off (too warm, too dark, etc.), run the printer's color calibration tool from its utility software — most manufacturers include one.

If color looks streaky or has banding

This is almost always a clogged print head nozzle, not a cartridge problem. Run the built-in print head cleaning cycle (in the printer's menu or utility software) and print a nozzle check pattern to confirm before buying new ink.