El-Cheapo splitback print frame?

I am beginning my first foray in to alternative processes and hand coating with a Van Dyke kit from Photographer's Formulary. I am currently working with 4x5 negatives, but do plan on trying enlarged negatives or a bigger camera :rolleyes: . I have had some major GAS attacks lately (check the classifieds for an RB67 or beginners 4x5 kit! ) so have little extra money for a proper split-back contact printing frame. They seem to be priced quite highly for even an 8x10. I am thinking about rigging up some contraption from a 5x7 picture frame by gluing the glass to the frame and removing the stand type back. I would replace the back with some matboard split in half and help together with the linen tape used for matting. That way the clips on the frame can hold the bottom part, while the top can be opened and shut for inspection. Does this sound like it might work? Any other ideas?

Thanks!

- Justin

If you are just looking for a 4x5 contact frame, they go pretty cheap on that auction site. 8x10's go for more because they are used allot more.

Your idea sounds sketchy to me, as far as getting enough pressure for good contact, and maintaining registration, if I'm understanding your idea correctly. The pressure needs to be even over the whole of the negative area, and matt board isn't stiff enough to do that.

Here's a post with instructions for a simple el cheapo home built frame that might work:

(there was a url link here which no longer exists)

Or you can use just plain glass weighed down, or a heavier thicker piece, but you won't be able to inspect it during exposure.