Blog

If you’re on the fence about bringing edible printing in-house, our Cake Crumbs (blog) contributors have some wisdom to share. From motivation and setup to business impact and daily tips, here’s what they told us about investing in an Edible Ink Printer.

Why They Took the Leap

“Now I can control custom orders and be confident in the quality of the edible images.” - Teresa Mariani, Sugar Theory PI

Teresa had just launched her Phillip Island home bakery and needed reliability and size options: “I bought the A3 printer system, so I could do cake wraps and larger prints… Having my own edible printer means I no longer have to turn down jobs…”

Teresa Mariani, Sugar Theory PI

“I really wanted to expand my product range and have a little point of difference, as well as being able to provide a more personalised cookie to corporate customers.” - Melissa Edworthy, Custom Cookies by Melissa

Melissa Edworthy, Custom Cookies By Melissa

“It initially was purely a cost-based decision… getting expensive to order edible images and difficult to source for late-notice orders.” - Sue Limpus, Sue’s Sweet Obsession.

A recommendation sealed it: “After seeing the always awesome Tigga Mac recommending her edible printer, I did some research and decided to go for it… it opened up extra ways of being creative, and even the ability to supply other bakers.”

Sue Limpus, Sue's Sweet Obsession

“I kept coming back to Edible Image Supplies… a trusted, reputable brand that not only offered great products, but also the support and starter bundle I needed.” - Lianna Speers, LCS Creative.

Lianna chose the EIS A3 Edible Ink Wireless Printing System Package: “It came with everything I needed to get started - ink, icing sheets, and a 3-month subscription to Icing Artist.”

Lianna Speers, LCS Creative

Setup: Easier Than You Think

“It was just like setting up a normal printer. I’m mindful to run it at least once a week to keep it in good condition.” - Teresa, Sugar Theory PI

And when she ordered the wrong cleaning set? “The team at Edible Image Supplies sorted that ASAP.”

Sugar Theory PI

“The set-up and new printer and products are amazing, and the customer service I received is even better.” - Melissa, Custom Cookies by Melissa

“From ordering to set-up, it was so smooth and easy - I was literally printing off cupcake toppers the same day it arrived!” - Sue, Sue’s Sweet Obsession

Top hack: “Wear gloves while putting in the ink cartridges” - Sue’s husband learned this the inky way.

“Set-up was an absolute breeze… step-by-step instructions were really easy to follow.” - Susie Testro, The Vale Cookie Collective

Susie took it further: “I paired my edible printer with a Cricut Explore. I love the level of organisation this allows.”

Susie Testro, The Vale Cookie Collective

“The setup process was quite seamless. Following the instruction manual made it easy.” - Lianna, LCS Creative

The Business Impact (a.k.a. why it pays for itself)

“I can control the quality and consistency… and no longer have to turn down jobs.” - Teresa, Sugar Theory PI

“I have been able to add a different product to my range as well as gaining more corporate clients… amazing.” - Melissa, Custom Cookies by Melissa

Custom Cookies By Melissa

“It has reduced overheads… I can pass these savings on to customers. It’s given me more freedom with designs, extra personalisation and last-minute inspiration.” - Sue, Sue’s Sweet Obsession
Highlights: “Custom cookie image for a conference (HTAWA)… kids’ birthday themes… Father’s Day designs - can’t wait!”

“I can take short-notice orders, alter/add images quickly, and profit margins are up. I’m more creative now than in my pre-printer days.” - Susie, The Vale Cookie Collective

The Vale Cookie Collective

“Corporate logo cookies have quickly become a standout offering… a creative and delicious way for businesses to promote their brand… they leave a sweet impression, literally!” - Lianna, LCS Creative

Expert Tips They Actually Use (so you don’t learn the hard way)

Keep it clean & checked

• “Run it at least once a week.” - Teresa
• “Test print on normal paper first so you don’t waste icing sheets.” - Sue
• “Nozzle check weekly; a little TLC goes a long way.” - Susie

Mind your moisture & adhesion

• “Make sure the glue is applied all the way to the edge… not too much or it can bleed. Remove air bubbles.” - Melissa
• “The smoother the surface, the better. I place the cutout image on fondant, then lightly roll with a fondant roller to help it adhere-no water or glue needed before cutting the fondant.” - Sue
• “I never ever use water when applying images - I learned the hard way.” - Susie
  Her go-to now: “Place images on fresh fondant and, with a sheet of Cover Up, roll over the top… they turn out perfectly.”

Workflow wins

• “Pair with a Cricut to design, print and cut in one organised session.” - Susie
• “I chose the A3 printer system for flexibility for jobs.” - Teresa

Their Advice to First-Time Buyers

“Absolutely do it if you consistently need edible images! Buy the best (edible printing system) you can afford; it will be paid back… it elevates your orders and makes every job more personal.” - Teresa, Sugar Theory PI

“Do your research… and trust reputable brands. Edible printers are a significant investment, so it’s crucial to feel confident you’re getting quality, reliability, and support. The good news? That investment pays for itself in the short term!” - Lianna, LCS Creative

LCS Creative

The Sweet Takeaway

Whatever the creators’ situation, the story is the same: bringing printing in-house cuts costs, boosts quality, and unlocks creativity. Setup is simple, service matters, and the ROI shows up fast in saved time, new products, and happy clients.

Thinking about it? Take it from Teresa, Melissa, Sue, Susie and Lianna: choose a reputable edible printing system, follow the instructions, maintain your printer, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.