What is Head to Head Printing?

Two beachfront scenes oriented in the same direction

Depending on the print project, a paper sheet could be printed on only one side or it could be printed on both sides. A sheet printed on only one side is referred to as Single-sided, 1-sided, or Simplex printing. Likewise, a sheet printed on both sides is referred to as Double-sided, 2-sided, or Duplex printing.

Head to Head is a term associated with Double-sided printing

Two beach scenes shown printed in the same direction — *Image A: Head to Head Printing - the two sides of a printed sheet are oriented in the same direction*

In the printing industry, the top of a printed sheet is known as the Head. Thus, Head to Head printing refers to a double-sided sheet that has the Head (top) of side one and the Head (top) of side two printed on the same end of the sheet. In other words, when the two sides are printed back to back, the directional orientation of side one will match the directional orientation of side two. Refer to Image A.

Head to Head vs Head to Toe Printing

The opposite of Head to Head printing is Head to Toe Printing. Also known as Head to Foot printing, Head to Toe printing refers to a double-sided sheet that has the Head (top) of side one and the Toe or Foot (bottom) of side two printed on the same end of the sheet. In other words, when the two sides are printed back to back, the directional orientation of side one will be opposite the directional orientation of side two. Refer to Image B.

Two beach scenes shown printed in the opposite direction — *Image B: Head to Toe Printing - the two sides of a printed sheet are oriented in opposite directions*

The vast majority of double-sided projects print Head to Head, but certain projects need to be printed Head to Toe. The most common example of Head to Toe printing is multi-page wall calendars. The bound sheets of wall calendars generally flip up or down instead of right or left. Thus, they need to be printed Head to Toe so the pages will be oriented correctly after they are flipped.

Color Vision can assist with just about any printing need you may have. Just give us a call at 800-543-6299 to discuss your project. Or, if you already know your specifications and would like a quote, you can submit our simple Quote Request form by clicking here. As always, we look forward to hearing from you!