HOW TO USE A 1960s DITTO MACHINE MIMEOGRAPH SPIRIT DUPLICATOR PHOTOCOPIER 43624

About

This 1960s instructional film shows how to use an early kind of photocopy machine called a spirit duplicator. The film also shows a photocopy machine (1:20), an offset duplicator (1:25), and a stencil duplicator (1:44). At 1:49 a spirit duplicator is shown. At 2:00 the narrator mentions the name Ditto, as that company was once prominent in the field. The dye transfer process is then explained. The film explains the use and operation of spirit duplicators—also known as ditto machines—for efficient, low-cost reproduction of written materials, especially in schools and offices. It begins by discussing the need for effective communication tools like posters, agendas, and handouts, then outlines different copying technologies, highlighting spirit duplication for short runs of under 400 copies. The process involves creating a master sheet using special carbon paper and dye, which is then run through the duplicator to transfer the image onto moistened paper. The film details how to prepare, correct, and enhance masters, as well as how to operate and maintain the machine, emphasizing accuracy, alignment, and preservation. It concludes by encouraging users to apply creativity and care, showing that spirit duplicators are accessible tools for clear, effective communication.

0:26 – The film introduces the challenge of effectively communicating ideas in business and education, requiring posters, announcements, agendas, and duplicated materials.

1:01 – Various machines are introduced to simplify written communication: photocopiers, offset duplicators, stencil duplicators (mographs), and spirit/fluid duplicators.

1:47 – Spirit duplicators (commonly called "dittos") are explained as efficient for producing fewer than 400 copies using a dye transfer process.

2:28 – The duplicating process starts with a carbon sheet and a master sheet; when typed or drawn on, dye transfers from the carbon to the master.

3:03 – The master sheet is run through the spirit duplicator, transferring dye to moistened paper, gradually depleting the dye.

3:27 – Master sets can be created manually or purchased pre-made with a protective slip sheet.

4:00 – Typing on a master set requires clean typewriter keys and accurate typing; correcting errors involves scraping off dye and using wax pencils or correction tape.

5:07 – Additional correction methods include liquid correction ("Snow-Pake") and inserting fresh carbon to retype the corrected text.

6:04 – Once typing is finished, hand-drawn additions like rules or illustrations can be added using pens and other colored carbons.

6:57 – Finished masters can be modified with Scotch tape or patched for edits, without affecting the quality of copies.

7:53 – The master is protected with a slip sheet until it's ready to be used in the duplicator.

Human-made No record of this work says a model made it. What this means.

Archive

Internet Archive, in Ephemeral films

Licence or status

The Internet Archive states none for this item.

Who can watch

The archive gives no rating. Invisible Network shows it to Tweens profiles and older, judged from its collection and subjects. How films are placed