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Risograph Printing in the Knowledge Lab

The Knowledge Lab has a SF5130 Risograph printer, this is a guide that provides information on colors, file preparation, and general information about how to create prints with this specialty printer.

Paper

What paper does the RISO printer use?

RISO prints have to be made on uncoated paper- between 20lb (80gsm) to 100lb Cover (270gsm).

  • Papers that can't be used with the RISO: extra thin paper, extra thick paper, glossy or coated papers, mylar, thermal papers, or art papers (like watercolor paper).  

The Knowledge Lab printer has a maximum printable area of 8.25inx14in. The maximum sized paper that can be run through the printer is 11x17in and minimum sized paper is 8.5x11in (speak with the lab manager for approval if you wish to print on paper smaller than 8.5x11).

The lab has a variety of 8.5x11in (Letter) and 8.5x14in (Legal) sized paper available for use including cardstock and text weight options. We usually stock paper from French Paper and Neenah. The paper in the lab is provided for free, we can't guarantee any specific color, size, or weight will be in stock at any time. 

The lab uses 20lb white copy paper for proofing. 

Paper Recommendations:

You can use up to 50 sheets of lab paper in a semester.

  • This does not include white copy paper use for proofing.

If working on a project or multiple projects that require more than 50 sheets, please provide your own paper.

  • You are welcome to use any paper/paper brand as long as it is meets the requirements for RISO.
  •  Paper can be purchased at stores like Staples, Michael's, or on Amazon.
    • For cardstock we recommend papers such as Neenah Vellum Bristol 67lb, Domtar EarthChoice or Cougar, Mohawk Vellum.
    • For cardstock and text weight papers in a wide variety of color selections, we recommend French Paper Co. 

If you want to have a better understanding of different types of papers to figure out which choice is the best for your needs, including what gsm or lb means, check out this handy guide. 

Print Minimums

Print Minimums

The RISO printer is intended for high-volume printing and is not intended to be used for single copies. 

  • If printing a single color, the print minimum is 10 copies.
  • If printing two colors, the print minimum is 20 copies.
  • If printing three or four colors, the print minimum is 30 copies. 

Due to the variable nature of RISO printing, especially when printing multiple layers, it's always a good idea to print more than you need then edit out the prints that are less successful.