Graphix Clear and Graphix White are both 4 mil polyester intended for
Displaymaker, Encad, and Novajet priners. Graphix Clear is a good medium
for direct printed negatives. Graphix White is good for positives to use to
contact print onto photographic film. Both work very well with the Epson
Stylus Pro in monochrome and color, 720dpi, at the coated paper setting.
Both work well for monochrome, black only, printing with the Stylus 3000 at
1440dpi. My testing has all been for contact transparencies, not finished
reflective prints. The 3000 inks are a different formulation. Full color
pools and beads somewhat in the darker tones. I also had some odd results
with the 3000 where the magenta would bloom over time and shift the color
balance. Both products come in 24 in and larger rolls. I was told that they
are considering offering cut sheets as well. Check the web site for current
pricing. A 24" x 100 foot roll is around $134 for White and $139 for Clear.
You can also request free samples - a sample is 2-3 letter size sheets.
Unfortunately they are not too careful in cutting the samples which often
have finger and hair smudges. It is indeed a pain to cut the stuff to size
because you have to be very careful not to touch the printing side. The
slightest finger print will affect printing as will dragging long hair over
the surface.
Another source for large film is the Weber-Valentine company:
http://www.weber-valentine.com
They are not as accommodating about free samples as Sentinel. I've only
printed 2 sheets of CKC-44 which is their clear 4 mill polyester film but
the results were promising. They sell a variety of cut sheet sizes - CKC-44
letter is under $15 for 25 sheets. You can order directly from the web
site. Their media is available in 17 wide inch rolls which fits the
SC3000's roll holder. They will also cut to order. I don't no what this
costs but you can request a quote at their web site.
Also, one of my students had good results on 3M inkjet transparency film,
Stylus Pro, 720dpi. at the coated paper setting. But, of course, this is
only available in letter size, like the Epson transparency film.
Wayne
Wayne Simpkins - hsimpkns@memphis.edu
The University of Memphis, Department of Art