I’m gonna post this here, because I would have liked a list like this when we first started printing comics.
For printing we use an Eco Tank Epson 8550. You need to lower the density on the printer, itself, in order to print on thicker cover paper. It is very possible and cheaper to use off brand Eco Tank ink, just make sure it’s for the 8550 model and read the instructions on the bottle. They are not designed the same way as the official ECO tank bottles and if you hold it wrong, you’ll spill the ink and everything will be that color.
For stapling, we use a saddle stitch stapler. Our Bostitch has served us well, so far.
For cutting, we use an HFS paper cutter. It might look intense for home use, but using those small cutters can do maybe a half a book at a time and won’t cut it as cleanly.
You’ll need 17×11 paper, for that you’ll have best luck just finding a local paper distributor. Sounds like a lot, but they’re really looking for business, now and ours was more than happy to work with small creators.
That’s all I can think of for now, if you have any other questions for us PLEASE ASK! We want to help even the playing field for publishing indie comics. We’re more than happy to share our process with you and want to learn from you, too!
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