Q: Do I need a special printer to print from my I pad

You need a printer that is air print compatible. See these support articles for more information Print from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support and About AirPrint - Apple Support

-AJ

The new Brother PocketJet 7 is 100% AirPrint compatible, small, battery operated and does not need a network or any other device to print.

It prints directly from the iphone or ipad. Check it out at http://www.brother-usa.com/mobile/Mobile-Printing/#.VsOpfPkrKUl

The specific model is the PJ773 printer.