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

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…

- Kind: Film
- Genres: Industrial and advertising
- Archive: [Internet Archive](https://archive.org/details/43624TheDuplicationOfTheSpiritMethod)
- Licence or status: none stated by the archive
- Who can watch: Tweens profiles and older (the archive gives no rating; placed by Invisible Network from its collection and subjects)

[Watch now](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/watch/archive/ia/43624TheDuplicationOfTheSpiritMethod?play=1)