Method for manufacturing panels having a decorative surface

A method for manufacturing a paper layer having a printed pattern, to be used in the manufacturing of panels, the method comprising:

• providing the paper layer with a treatment, including providing the paper layer with an ink receiving substance;
• providing the treated paper layer with at least a portion of the printed pattern;
• wherein providing the portion of the printed pattern involves depositing pigment containing inks on the treated paper layer using a digital inkjet printer;
• wherein the pigment containing inks are water-based;
• wherein the digital inkjet printer includes print heads with nozzles, and the depositing involves firing droplets of pigment containing inks from the nozzles onto the treated paper layer;
• wherein the paper layer is fed from a roll, printed upon, and rolled back up again;
• wherein for the paper layer use is made of a paper having a mean air resistance according to the Gurley method of below 30 seconds, and/or having a weight between 60 and 90 grams per square meter.