Want to Buy [Found!] Holga frame mask

[Donald Qualls]

I just bought a Holga 120S. Despite having both 6x6 and 6x4.5 ruby windows, the camera comes with only a 6x4.5 frame mask, and I've read that one of the sources of light leaks and film scratches these cameras are (in)famous for is removing the frame mask to get a 6x6 frame. There apparently were originally 6x6 masks for these cameras, but when the cameras were returned to production after the first time they were discontinued, there weren't -- suggesting that the mold for that part was lost.

I'd be interested in buying a frame mask -- either 6x6 size or 6x4.5 (to be modified to 6x6) to fit my nice new Holga 120S, so I can have the choice of formats with minimum opportunity for "artistic accidents". PM with a price and estimate for shipping to 27021. Obviously, this won't be cost-effective outside the USA...

 

[Lanline]

Two suggestions:

1. Fine sand the areas where the film will make contact and don't use a mask - I used to do this until I started cutting the masks.
2. Cut the 645 holder to 6x6 with a dremel - I've done this on most of my Holgas. Each mask I've cut is slightly different and none of them 100% square/straight, which I actually like.

 

[Donald Qualls]

Cut the 645 holder to 6x6 with a dremel - I've done this on most of my Holgas. Each mask I've cut is slightly different and none of them 100% square/straight, which I actually like.

This is what I intend to do, but I want to keep the 6x4.5 mask as well, so I can shoot on both formats (has my love for 6x4.5 become unhealthy? Say it isn't so!) and compare the Holga directly with my Debonair, which is 645 only (but otherwise very Holga-esque). Careful cutting and fine sanding will do the job -- but to keep the dual format capability, I'll need a second mask.

Sanding the unmasked gate has potential to solve scratching, but it won't solve stray light from one exposure getting onto the negative before and after...

 

[Lanline]

How about this https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/543331368/holga-6x6-film-frame-mask-for-120-series

 

[Donald Qualls]

Aha! Thanks for the pointer, @Lanline I went ahead and got one from there.