A few more suggestions from a different perspective (remember,
despite rumors to the contrary, there is more than one way to make a
truly fine platinum print).
I am also not fond of sizing paper. I have never found it necessary
for platinum printing. Arches Platine is one of my favorite papers,
although it does seem to require double coating for optimum results.
The added expense is small price to pay for the beautiful prints
which result (and yes, I DO know what a great platinum print looks
like!!!)
I coat with a glass rod and lightly brush the surface with a Hake
brush right after each coat. I let the paper air dry between coats.
I do not dry with heat or humidify the paper prior to coating or
exposure.
For contrast control, potassium chlorate seems to be deadly for
Arches Platine. Sodium dichromate used in potassium oxalate
developer will give you beautiful prints as smooth as a baby's
bottom.
For clearing, strait EDTA or acids WILL NOT WORK with Platine.
Kodak Hypo-clear works very well, as you have discovered. I also
know people who use successive EDTA and sodium sulfite baths which
also seems to work well (I believe these are 2 of the primary
ingredients in Hypo-clear).
Other papers that work well for me include Cranes Distaff Linen
Coverstock, Cranes Parchmont Wove, Cranes Platinotype, Wyndstone 2.5
point vellum, and Bienfang 360. I have not had good luck with
Fabriano Artistico, but I've never tried it with Terry's sizing
technique.
A vaccuum frame is probably the best way to make good tight, even
contact between your negative and your paper. I don't know about
Italy, but they can be found used in the USA for a reasonable price.
I hope this information will help you in your quest. Best of luck!
Kerik Kouklis
ps If you are so inclined, you can see some of my work on the World
Wide Web at: http://members.aol.com/kerik717/