Refilling inks

Introduction
Although most printer manufacturers recommend using only their brand of inks as replacement parts, many computer users find they can save money by refilling existing cartridges. We'll preface this reader report by saying that our own experiences haven't been particularly positive with refilling cartridges, but some people -- particularly meticulous ones -- have had better results.

                                                                                                                                  - Graeme Bennett, Editor

Hans writes:
I would like to briefly explain how I go about it.

• The cartridge is basically a plastic container filled with a spongy material
• I place some newsprint on my work area, as well as a cup of clean water
• Then I keep the cartridge upright and steady in a c-clamp sitting on top of the news print (this frees up both hands)
• Next I draw about 3 cc. of ink out of the bottle with a syringe
• Gently push the syringe plunger down and drop after drop of ink is absorbed by the spongy material in the cartridge
• When syringe is empty, suck up clean water out of cup to clean syringe

I have some tissue paper handy to pick up any drops (ink or water); never had any spill or ink on my hands and have done this now for over 3 years.

For further reading:

• fade-resistant inks
• Refilling the Lexmark 3200
• Refill instructions for other popular models

How to unclog an Epson printer:

• [cleaning tips]
• [clog clearing procedure]
• [Epson Stylus head-cleaning chemical]
• [unclogging Epson print heads]