printing double sided, how do you get it accurate?

[_Helen_Capstick_]

Hi!

how do you print double side accuratly (on illustrator)?

Helen

[Scott Falkner]

It depends on the accuracy of your printer. The method would be the same using any program. Print one double-sided copy and measure the offset for side two. Move everything on side two to account for that offset and print again. Pray it works this time.

[KarenSC]

I agree with Scott - it depends on your printer. But it would make it easier to Save As PDF, then print from Adobe PDF or Reader.
Select CENTRED on page.
If your printer doesn't do double sided, or the paper is card weight, then print one side, and do a test with a single sheet to see which way the other side should go.
Then write down the steps so you know next time.

Cheers.

[_Phos_four_dots_]

I've always created dummy target documents which I then print on a sheet of paper I can see through when I hold it to the light. I measure any offsets in the print, then adjust the target documents as necessary, then print another 2-sider. I do this until I get as close a match as possible. I make note of the offsets and adjust the real document's position in accordance.

[ArchDesignDreamer]

This is exactly what I am having issues with... but i dont know WHERE to adjust the documents offset. My document is printing where it is off like 1/16th of an inch or a little more vertically, and a little less than a 1/16th of an inch horizontally when you hold it up to the light.. I know it is possible to do it when it is a pdf, and that is what I am trying to do.. but I cannot seem to find WHERE to adjust it.

[m_shum]

What do you mean when you say "I adust the target documents as necessary"? What exactly do you adjust, and how exactly do you do it? My printer shifts the document slightly to the left every time, so I get a 3mm difference from front to back.

[_Helen_Capstick_]

thanks that was really helpful, thanks again x