Re: haunted VDB
Sorry Don, but my personal view (which may not be absolutely correct for some, but I have to supply my own view not others', no?) on this issue is that KRST toning of Vandke prints is a simple waste of time. I mean what do you expect when the usual working dilution of toner is 1+19 (or 1+9) and the "recommended" dilutions for Vandyke toning range between 20 to 50 times the usual, really? Sounds more like self deception to me. (Or maybe some like the yellowish brown they get doing so - can't comment..) And I'm not telling it can't be done BTW, I say it's not a good idea. About precious metal toning: Well, one should do so methinks actually, "if they value longevity that is", nothing more implied... What I suggested is to buy KAuCl4 from a gold plater (or gold plating supplier); in my area a gram of this compound will cost something like USD 17 (with the current inflated gold prices that is, it was more like 70% of that figure a couple of years ago) and one can mix 2000ml toner with that amount. Enough for plenty prints - even if used one shot! The actual toning cost per print is a really unimportant fraction of the price for the paper they're going to use. What's the point of wasting expensive paper (and time + labor; making Vandykes is not an easy and cheap job actually, when you think of the time and resources one has to devote) with a process which is notorious for (or prone to) fading - due to adverse environmental/storage conditions and/or improper processing? Regards, Loris. 2009/10/1 Don Bryant <donsbryant@gmail.com>: > Loris, > >> > Joao, Selenium toning is not a good idea (because of ammonium thiosulfate it > contains), >> > > There you go again! > VDBs can be selenium toned if done carefully! > > There can be some bleach back but that is adjusted for in printing. > > I will also suggest that precious metal toning isn't necessary, though the > prints won't be as archival. I think new users can get put off from trying > VDB when it sounds like they need to purchase gold and palladium salts. > > > > Don Bryant > > >
|