an ink jet printing method having the steps of : a ) providing an ink jet printer that is responsive to digital data signals ; b ) loading the printer with an ink jet recording element having a support having thereon the following layers in order : i ) a base layer having a polymeric binder and a polymeric mordant ; and ii ) an overcoat layer having a polymeric uv - absorbing material ; c ) loading the printer with an ink jet ink composition of water , a humectant , and a water - soluble dye ; and d ) printing on the overcoat layer using the ink jet ink in response to the digital data signals .