Curved film

[fabbroni]

I found an old film B/W 120 wrapped in a box, so I decided to re-wash it, being able to spread it evenly cut strips. After drying, the film was plain, but very curved along its length. Does anyone know what can I do to flatten it? Thank you all

 

[Christopher Walrath]

I don't know that I would worry about it. Any 120 I have ever processed rolls like that but flattens out easily enough in protective sheeting.

 

[tkamiya]

I've been told curving is a sign of rapid drying as a result of too-low humidity in environment. I've turned on hot water in bathroom for few minutes, then hung film to dry. It seems to lessen the problem at first but when it was COMPLETELY dry, it still curved.

Like Chris says, I'd just cut it up, then put it in archival sleeves. Putting it between pages of heavy book flattens them out somewhat as well.

 

[Christopher Walrath]

Yeah, and I'm not talking like you could stuff the film with ricotta or anything, but it does have a little bit of a lengthwise curl to it when hung dry.

 

[fabbroni]

Chemicals?

But there is no chemical bath, which you know, for prevent it, instead of drying film under an elephant or anything else... ?

 

[Bob-D659]

Nope.

 

[tkamiya]

You have an elephant handy?

 

[JPD]

You have an elephant handy?

The elephant method works, but one must be aware of that the emulsion then will mold to the shape of the surface it lies on. A polished metal surface is recommended, especially if an adult african elephant is used.

 

[Rick A]

Place your dry film between the pages of a large book and close it, thenweight it with a couple more tomes.

 

[JPD]

Place your dry film between the pages of a large book and close it, thenweight it with a couple more tomes.

That's even cheaper than hiring an elephant.

 

[ntenny]

My elephant won't sit still for long enough. It gets up to go pee and the film all rolls up again.

-NT