With our recent announcement of the new print function on LessonPathways.com, we thought you’d like to hear some ways you can keep your printing cost down.

Since the time I began homeschooling, I’ve always generously used the abundance of resources found on the Internet.  I could often be heard saying “All you need is a printer and a ream of paper to homeschool!”

While a ream of paper isn’t very expensive compared to the cost of a text or work book, you can easily find yourself spending more than you need on printing supplies.  Here are a few tips to help you stretch your dollar when it comes to printing and using Internet resources.

Saving on Paper

The saying “A penny saved is a penny earned” definitely applies here.  Before printing, consider carefully if this is something you really do need to print.  If you need to keep a portfolio of work, consider keeping a paperless portfolio.  Use a free service such as Screen Shot Captor to take screen shots of your child’s online work, instead of printing.  Not only will this save on paper (and ink!), but it will save precious real estate on your bookshelf!  Each year, save it to a CD or thumb drive to have your permanent portfolio.  You can always print it later, if absolutely needed.

Print on both sides of the paper. Not only are you saving paper, you’ll have less paper to cram into your binder!  Also, if you are printing something small, such as clip art, try to arrange more than one on each sheet

Use up your scraps.   If you are printing something that will be cut out, save your left over scrap of paper.  This can be used for scratch paper when working math problems, doodling or art projects, or jotting down your grocery list.

Use recycled paper.  A very good friend of mine receives the paper designated for the recycle bin from local businesses.  Most of this paper is only printed on one side, leaving her the other side free for her own use.  She rarely needs to buy paper!

Stock up! Keep your eye out for sales and rebates, most often found at the beginning of the school year.  Take advantage of the low prices by purchasing the maximum allowed and don’t forget to submit for your rebate!

Saving on Ink

Needless to say, if you saving on paper by printing only what you absolutely need, you’re already saving on ink.  There are a few other ink-saving strategies you can implement, for the times you do need to print.

Check your printer settings.  Many printers have the print quality options.  Try changing it to “draft” mode or a lower print quality when printing worksheets and such.  Most of the time, “draft mode” quality will suffice.  This uses less ink and will speed up the printing process too!

Print in black and white.  Color ink is more expensive than black ink.  Unless it’s needed, print in “grayscale” or black and white.  Some printers even offer a “coloring book” or “outline” option.  This prints just the outline of the graphics on your page.  If you can do this, you can let your child color in the pictures for added color.

Find less expensive ink sources.  Our printer ink normally costs around $70 if I purchase through our local office supply store.  I’ve found great deals at sites such as 123inkjets.com, and have been able to replenish my ink supply for up to 50% less!  Specialty websites such as these often offer “off-brand” or reconditioned ink cartridges.  It’s worth checking to see if your brand can be found there.

Refill your ink. Many stores are now offering “ink refill stations”.  This is another great way to reduce your ink costs.  Also, keep your eye out at unconventional places such as your local dollar store.  I’ve found ink refills at mine for $1.00!  Even though it can get messy to refill your own ink cartridges at home, you can save a lot!

These are a few strategies I’ve used to cut costs.  How do you save on printer supplies?

This post was written by Christina S., homeschool mom of two and LessonPathways.com team member.  You can find out more about her and other contributors by visiting the “Our People” page.