gelatine in salt prints

[NedL]

When I ordered supplies for salt printing from B&S I got a jar of gelatin, since it is mentioned in many recipes.

I was thinking of trying a small amount, like 1/2% the next time I salt papers, but I have a question. Will the resulting print then require a hardener even with a small amount like this? I think I'll just skip it if it means I have to work with formaldehyde or the like.

 

[Simon Howers]

I have found that the salt print process generally produces better results if done on gelatine sized paper.
It really rather depends on your choice of paper. Sized paper is more economical to use and gives a sharper result.
I generally mix up a gelatine/chrome alum solution and size a batch of paper - (remember to mark the back with pencil!)
Chrome alum is rather less poisonous than formaldehyde.

Simon

 

[Herzeleid]

More gelatin gives warmer tones, sharper prints and it takes longer for silver coating to dry with increased gelatin content.
Less gelatin gives cooler, red-maroon like tones. I prefer to use %0,8 to %1 gelatin.
I almost always printed without hardener. I have tried adding potash alum a few times, I haven't observed any critical difference. Hardener is quite optional imo.

 

[NedL]

....
Chrome alum is rather less poisonous than formaldehyde.

Thank you, I'll look into chrome alum. It sounds like you use separate steps for sizing and salting.

Many recipes include gelatin in the salting solution, from small amounts up to about 2%, but few mention if the result is then hardened prior to sensitizing.

 

[NedL]

More gelatin gives warmer tones, sharper prints and it takes longer for silver coating to dry with increased gelatin content.
Less gelatin gives cooler, red-maroon like tones. I prefer to use %0,8 to %1 gelatin.
I almost always printed without hardener. I have tried adding potash alum a few times, I haven't observed any critical difference. Hardener is quite optional imo.

Thanks! From my reading, it seemed some people are using it without hardening. My interest is mostly as a way to control tones and it sounds like it will be worth trying.

 

[Simon Howers]

It sounds like you use separate steps for sizing and salting.

Where I have a paper that needs sizing then I do this first with a gelatine/chrome alum mix and leave to dry out.
Sized paper keeps more or less indefinitely. I use this for a range of processes.

If it's to be used for salt printing then I salt the paper and allow to dry. I usually use ammonium chloride.
This keeps well if stored in a cool dry place.

I apply the silver nitrate solution with a coating rod ("puddle pusher") and allow to dry.

If you want to vary the colour, try gold toner. The Tetenal branded stuff is as good as any.

Have fun!

Simon

 

[NedL]

Thank you! I am definitely having fun with it. And gold toner is next on the list!