Argyrotype Help

[Mystq3]

Hello,

I've been using the Argyrotype kit as sold by Bostick & Sullivan, and have tried endlessly, following the directions to the T, with the same result.

Whenever I process an image, it comes out a light grey and VERY splotchy, with hardly any contrast!

I have tried Lana, Fabriano, and BFK papers, I have tried adding Tween20 to the coating solution, different negatives (usually I either use an 8x10, or Pictorico), and I have even tried extremely overexposing the image - but NOTHING seems to work!

Any ideas?? Over half my bottle is gone, and I don't know what to do!

Thanks

 

[ColinRH]

Is your solution a commercial brand? I had a bad bottle of Fotospeed Argyrotype and after speaking to them on the telephone and returning it,, I was told that they had tested it and found it to be blotchy and faulty. Quickly replaced and very helpful.
As for the grey colour, I wonder if you are heat drying it. I used to dry some in a warm oven until I realised that it was the heat which was changing the colour - different heats, different colours.

 

[forrevver]

My experiences with argyro were comprehended by the same failure

 

[Johnindc]

It's all about the paper. I've used Lenox paper with success: http://www.danielsmith.com/ItemSearch--search-lenox--srcin-1

Another paper that works very well is EPSON Premium Presentation Paper, Matte. This paper is designed for digital printers but works exceptionally for some of the alternative processes. Hope this helps.