Argyrotypes Coating

[Ian Leake]

I'm experimenting with argyrotypes and printed my first yesterday. But I've noticed a silvery blemish on the surface of the dry print. My first guess is that this is caused by poor coating technique because it's at the edges of the coated area.

Can anyone confirm this and suggest what I need to do to correct it? I've attached an example with a close up.

Many thanks in advance,
Ian.

 

[nze]

Hello Ian

I think it will be better to ask this in the alternative process forum.
you may just need to wipe the liquid line at the border when you ended your coat.This marks come from the too much solution on the paper.

Another solution may be to use a little more Tween 20, so all the solution get in the paper. and you won't have this any more.

 

[Digidurst]

Hi Ian Can you tell us what paper you're using? I've found that it really makes a difference. Also, are you doing any toning at all?

 

[Ian Leake]

Thanks

Thanks Christian - I was a little ham fisted applying the sensitiser so this makes sense to me.

Hi digidurst - I was using the Fabriano 5. I've got hold of some Arches Platine which I'm going to experiment with tomorrow.

Bestr regards, Ian.

 

[nze]

Ian

I use a lot of paper with argyrotype and this process is really sensitive to the paper. Depenping on the sizing you will obtain print of different tone. It makes 5 year I don't use it any more but I remind that I get warm tone with Arches aquarelle HP , and neutral tone with BFK. I use a lot of japanese paper with this process.

The best way to work is to use just enough sensitizer for the area you coat 6-10 drops will be enough for a 4x5 area 24-36 for a 8x10 area on arches platine paper. BFK or other less sized paper will need more solution .But never let unused solution dry on the paper.

Double coating will generate smother black with better separation , but it is inly interesting with low key image. With normal or high key image the double coat won't bring a lot.( for sure the pritn will look better wet but dry it wil look like a a single coat print.)

at last I use to gold / palladium or platinum toned the print, I also try selenium toning at 1/300 dilution., but prefer the tone I get with the noble salt.

regards