Most paper problems have a simple cause: moisture, the wrong paper for the printer, an unsuitable tray or setting, or folding without scoring. Find your problem below.
| Problem | Most likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Paper curls | Moisture imbalance, heat, heavy coverage, wrong media setting, poor storage | Store flat and wrapped, acclimatise, correct paper type and GSM setting |
| Cardstock jams | Weight unsupported in the tray, tight paper path | Rear feed or bypass, heavy-card setting, fewer sheets |
| Cardstock cracks on the fold | Folded without scoring, against the grain, heavy toner on the fold | Score first, fold with the grain, keep heavy coverage off the fold |
| Ink smudges on coated paper | Paper not inkjet-compatible, too much ink, handled before drying | Use inkjet-rated paper, correct media setting, let it set |
| Toner flakes or cracks | Coating not laser-compatible, too little heat, weight outside the limit | Use laser-rated media, heavy or coated setting, score before folding |
Score the sheet before folding, use an appropriate crease width and fold with the grain where possible. For digitally printed work, keep heavy coverage away from the fold, or test whether lamination or a different stock helps.
Confirm the paper is made for inkjet, select the correct media setting, print on the printable side and avoid stacking wet prints. Laser-only coated paper is not a substitute for inkjet coated paper.
Use laser-rated media, select the heavy or coated-paper setting and confirm the tray limit. Avoid putting heavy toner coverage directly on a tight fold.
Not usually. If problems persist with a compatible, correctly set up paper, send us the order number, photos and your printer model.