Hey folks: I am having a problem with Ilford Multigrade IV RC papers. I am getting all kinds of marking on the face. Even down to the pattern on the rubber gripper part of the tongs used in the tray. I process very carefully, and try to keep from brushing the face with the tongs, but the darn marks show up from time to time. They are subtle to very visible. They show up on straight prints, toned prints and on Glossy & Pearl surface as well. I try to keep temperatures pretty close, process in Dektol 1:3, dilute stop and Ilfords Rapid fix for 30 sec. I tried using & not using Hype clear-still marks on some images. Frustrating as well as costly in re-do's on prints for sale. Any ideas?

-- Anonymous, March 30, 1997

Answers

Delicate surfaces - prints

I used to get a lot of damage to the surface of my prints. I almost always leave a boarder and only use the tongs on that area. Try the Stainless tongs with the sponge pads. Mine are from the kostiner co. and get them to give you extra pads as you will need them sooner than later. You can still get damaged surfaces so go easy. Next try HD Medical Gloves. not the regular weight as they rip easily.

-- Anonymous, April 01, 1997

Is the problem a light leak in your darkroom, or is your safelight either too close to the trays (or leaking white light)? I had a problem of getting shadows (ghosts) on Multigrade IV, but upon inspection, found the safelight leaking, and the darkroom wasn't completely dark.

-- Anonymous, April 01, 1997

Reply Ilford Multigrade IV paper processing marks

It happens to me once sometimes when I get to involve developing. It come from tongs contamination going from one chemical to another inadvertantly. I use a small container of fresh water to rince my tongs once in a while.

-- Anonymous, April 01, 1997

Thanks for your response, Dan. Well, I don't know what the problem is other than physical damage through handling. I have not had this problem (yet) with Multigrade IV but I'll be on the look out for it. Thanks for pointing out the problem, I will save a lot of us grief.

-- Anonymous, April 01, 1997

Response to Multigrade IV processing marks

Dan-

I agree with Denis about chemical contamination as the probable culprit.

I use dishwashing gloves, rather than tongs, and I keep a beaker full of hot water between my holding bath and viewing light switch. After the fix, the print goes into the holding bath, the glove goes into the beaker of hot water. I slip the glove off, and turn my viewing light on. I've never had a problem with contamination and I reuse the gloves until I get noticable staining on the gloves. Also, the risk of creasing or damaging a print is reduced with elimination of tongs. -Doug

-- Anonymous, April 02, 1997