As an artist I use my scanner constantly… and have found a few other uses for my scanner which help me go paperless in my studio. Here are some alternative ideas for using your art scanner :

• • Avoid using photocopiers : Use your scanner and then print the copies you need from your inkjet printer. Inkjet printer cartridges are refillable or recyclable once they are emptied… whereas photocopiers use tonor which needs to be disposed of. Don’t forget to print on recycled paper!
• • Create digital backups : Go paperless by scanning bills, receipts, letters and contracts to PDF to create digital backups of important documents.
• • Forms & contracts : Scan forms or signed contracts as PDFs, then save them to your hard drive with your project files so they can be easily found.
• • Scan materials instead of using a camera : Use your scanner to create your own textures & background images for designs… fabrics, tiles, leaves, papers, wood… the possibilities are endless! Just be careful to not scratch / ding the scanner glass!
• • Energy Tip : Remember to turn off – or even better, unplug your scanner after use. Leaving it plugged in will continue to use energy even when you’re not using it. I typically use my scanner for 5 minutes to 2 hours at a go every few days, so by unplugging it I save quite a bit of energy for days at a time.