Three types of inkjet-printable translucent drafting materials are available for markable overlays, mixed-media art projects and other projects: vellum, Mylar, and PET tracing film. Understanding how these materials differ can help you understand the best option for your planned printing project.     

Inkjet Vellum Paper

Vellum is a foldable, moderately translucent paper made from cotton or wood pulp. Its slightly toothy surface is good for drawing or erasing. Like paper, it is also easy to handle and cut and typically costs less than films.

Vellum is commonly used for wedding invitations, scrapbooks, and mixed-media art projects. It is also used as an overlay for printed technical drawings.

The ink-receptive coating on inkjet vellum absorbs the ink, limiting its ability to spread on the surface.

When choosing between vellum and other translucent materials, keep in mind that vellum is not waterproof and can wrinkle or curl with heavy ink loads. Humidity can cause the paper to expand or shrink.

For shorter term projects that don’t require the elegant look and feel of vellum, you can choose a translucent bond paper for overlays.

Inkjet Mylar

Mylar® is a DuPont-trademarked name for an ultra-smooth, tear-resistant, waterproof bi-axillary-oriented polyester film (BoPET).  Because of its dimensional stability, Mylar is a good choice for high-precision overlays for engineering drawings, archival plans.

The Mylar used for drafting or craft projects typically has a finely textured, “frosted” surface to ensure that inks or other water-based materials don’t smear or smudge. The ink-receptive coating on inkjet-printable Mylar ensures that aqueous inks adhere to the surface of the film.

Mylar costs more than vellum and is harder to mark-up with pencils.

Inkjet Tracing Film

PET Tracing Film is a generic matte polyester film that is similar to Mylar but costs less. Various manufacturers offer their own versions of PET Tracing Film, including clear films for overlays.

Freedom Paper offers a double-matte translucent PET drawing film that is coated on both sides. One side is optimized for inkjet printing; the other is well-suited for mark-ups with pencils, pens, or markers. 

Recommendations

• Choose vellum (or translucent bond paper) if you want a paper-based material and lower cost.
• Choose a Mylar-brand film for precision, consistency, and durability.
• Choose PET tracing film for Mylar-like performance at a better price.

Below are just a few of the translucent films and papers available in other rolls or sheets through the Freedom Paper webstore.

20 lb. Solventless Inkjet Vellum (100% Cotton)

Inkjet Double-Matte Mylar (Sheets and Rolls)

Translucent Printer Paper

If you have questions about which type of material would be most appropriate for a specific project, please call Freedom Paper at 866-310-3335 or chat with us online at www.freedompaper.com.