Printing Guide

Templates & Tools

Choose the right template and ensure proper PDF setup for clean, precise card printing.

• PDF 9-up: Use Proxy Print Setup, MTG-Print (upload custom), or KPPT by Burton for optimal layouts
• Cut guides: Always enable cut markers to show where to trim cards
• Scaling: Select "Actual Size" and disable any fit-to-page options
• System dialog: Use the system print dialog and choose the highest quality paper type available

Print Settings & Quality

Optimize your printer settings for the best possible results with your chosen media type.

• Driver installation: Install full manufacturer drivers for access to advanced print options
• Paper type selection: Choose the appropriate paper type setting - this controls ink density and print speed
• Dry time: Allow 1-2 minutes drying time on quality media before handling
• Quality mode: Use the highest quality setting available for sharp text and vibrant colors
• Color management: Ensure color profiles are properly configured for accurate color reproduction

Paper Handling & Media

Proper paper handling ensures consistent print quality and prevents common printing issues.

• Paper storage: Keep paper in its original packaging until use to prevent moisture absorption
• Temperature/humidity: Print in stable environmental conditions (avoid extreme temperature or humidity)
• Paper loading: Load paper correctly according to your printer's specifications
• Multiple sheets: Process sheets individually rather than in batches to maintain quality
• Cleaning: Keep the printer clean, especially when working with adhesive media

Duplex & Two-Sided Printing

For dual-faced cards (DFCs, MDFCs), precise alignment is crucial for professional results.

Manual Duplex Method:

1. Print the FRONT sheet: arrange first-side images in any order (e.g., 1→9 across the 3×3 grid)
2. Print the BACK sheet: use the same row logic with reversed positions:
   • Row 1: (1 ↔ 3) and (2 ↔ 2) and (3 ↔ 1)
   • Row 2: (4 ↔ 6) and (5 ↔ 5) and (6 ↔ 4)
   • Row 3: (7 ↔ 9) and (8 ↔ 8) and (9 ↔ 7)
3. Print fronts first, flip the stack consistently, then print backs with identical margins, bleed, and scale

Alternative Methods:

• Photo paper method: Print front/back on glossy photo paper and bond with thin superglue (keep glue 1/3" from edges)
• Printer limitations: Consumer printers have imprecise duplex alignment - cut by the front and make back images slightly oversize

Printer Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential when working with specialty media like adhesive vinyl.

Adhesive Media Cleaning:

• Quick clean: Every 1-2 sheets, use tweezers and Q-tips with Goo Gone on blade/rail
• Full clean: For rotary trimmers like Fiskars, remove rail and clear all debris, then re-seat blade against metal edge
• Preventive care: Clean immediately after finishing a print job to prevent adhesive buildup

Common Print Issues

Quick solutions to the most common printing problems encountered with proxy cards.