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 a fusible , porous , image - receiving layer of non - porous polymeric particles having a core / shell structure of a polymeric , hydrophobic core covered with a polymeric , hydrophobic shell , the tg of the polymeric , hydrophobic core being at least about 25 ° c . higher than the tg of the polymeric , hydrophobic shell ; 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 inkjet ink in response to the digital data signals .