Re: Van Dyke questions
Sal Mancini (sal@www.napc.com)
Wed, 19 Feb 1997 09:50:11 -0500
Bruce McCaughey wrote:
>
> I have two related questions that I could use some help with.
> Question #1 There has been some discussion recently about the permanence of
> Van Dyke prints. Some how I missed the answer, is there a problem with
> fading? The reason I am asking has to do with two prints I have on the wall
> that seem to be fading before my eyes. What would cause this? If it was a
> fixing or washing problem would they not be going darker? There may be a
> connection between the answer to question 1 and the problem in question two,
> so read on before answering.
> Question #2 The prints are also not getting a very high dmax to start with.
> I have used the same chemicals on another paper and the dmax is much darker.
> This is were it gets too complex for me. The paper I am using is my own hand
> made paper using rag linters and a liquids sizing called Hercon 70(this is
> an internal sizing not a surface sizing). I have used the recommended amount
> of sizing in relationship to the linter but this was not designed for the
> Van dyke process. The results are OK but could be better. The dmax is not up
> to standard and there is a grainy texture. What I need to know is if the
> result would be better if I added or reduced the sizing. Some sizing is
> required to bind the pulp together during the processing and washing. Does
> the Dmax increase with more or less absorbance into the paper.Is it also
> possible that the Hercon 70 is effecting the chemicals and causing the
> prints to fade.
> Obviously I need to do some more testing but if any one has any
> hints to put me on the right track I would appreciate the help.
> Bruce
Bruce,
Have you tried a wetting agent? Perhaps if you soak the paper in a
weting agent bath and then hang it to dry you will have better
absorbtion. Hercon tends to make paper not very absorbant. This may be
the cauese of your graininess and lack of good dmax.
Good luck,
Sal Mancini