I've finally gotten around to do a series of tests on FujiLith FT42 (old
number LO 100) for making enlarged negatives for alternative process
contact printing.
I've worked out a simplified technique for making long scale negatives in
one step by reversal processing lith film. The process is quite easy to
do. Density ranges are adjusted in the first developer through exposure
and development. There is a good deal of lattitude with the process.
Density ranges of 1.5 to 2.5 are possible. Use more exposure and less
development for lower contrast, reduce exposure and increase development
for higher contrasts.
Here are the steps=8A
1. Enlarge a continuous tone negative of normal scale onto FujiLith FT42
under red safelight conditions. (whatever lith you have might work as well)
Starting exposure f22 @ 5 seconds. (Incident meter reading at easel
without negative in carrier was f1.4 @ 4 seconds, ISO 100)
2. Develop in Rodinol 1:25 for 3 - 6 minutes depending on desired density ra=
nge
3. Rinse
4. Place negative in bleach solution and turn on the white lights. White
lights remain on for the rest of the process. Bleach for 1 minute.
Bleach - 1 Litre of water
10g Potassium Dichromate
12 mL Sulfuric Acid
*use proper saftey precautions with the bleach chemistry!*
5. Rinse
6. Place film in clearing bath made from a 5% sodium sulfite solution for 1
minute
7. Rinse
8. Redevelop in working strength paper developer until fully developed.
9. Fix for two minutes and wash.
This is a very inexpensive product compared to Kodak films and Agfa N31P.
The cost is about 90 dollars Canadian for 11 X 14 inch, 100 sheets. It is
available in sizes from 5 X 7 up to 30 X 40 in cut sheets, and rolls of
24", 36" and 48".
I hope this can be of use to some of you.
Good Luck
Mike Robinson
Toronto, Canada
robkiss@io.org