Ilford Art 300 Development Time

I just received my first box of Ilford Art 300 paper and I'm running some tests to find the correct development time in Ethol LPD. I dilute the liquid developer to 1:4 for a neutral print.

I'm a bit surprised that this combination seems to reach full black at around the 1 minute mark. A test strip developed for 2 minutes shows virtually no difference in the black level from the 1 minute strip. I typically use Ilford Multigrade Classic Fiber paper and found (through similar testing) that it needed a 4 minute development time to reach full black. I also ran tests in the past on Fomabrom Variant 111 and found it needed a 3 minute development time. So 1 minute seems very short, and Ilford's Art 300 data sheet shows times starting at 1:30 and going all the way up to 5:00 for their developers at various dilutions.

Have others found that this paper develops to completion more quickly than others? Can anyone using LPD at the 'neutral' dilution (whether from the liquid or powder developer) share their development time? Just trying to find out if I'm going nuts or if this paper really does develop significantly more quickly than the others I've tested

I use Bromophen, 1+3 at 20°C I develop for 2-3 minutes (almost everything at 2 minutes). IIRC I went longer (3 minutes) with the Art 300. I use an old Zone VI compensating timer, helps to keep me from underdeveloping.

Been a while since I have used good ol reliable LPD. Someone chime in, I think Bromophen and LPD have Phenidone, not sure if that's relevant .

Been a while since I used Art 300, not a fan of the "sparkle" of the surface. It is substantial stuff though.

If I look really hard I might see a slight density difference between the 1 and 2 minute strips. I ran a 3 minute strip and really can’t see any difference between it and the 2 minute strip. But I may just go with 3 minutes to be on the safe side.

logan2z said:

If I look really hard I might see a slight density difference between the 1 and 2 minute strips. I ran a 3 minute strip and really can’t see any difference between it and the 2 minute strip. But I may just go with 3 minutes to be on the safe side.

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I would use your routine. Ilford seems comfortable with 1.5 to 3 minutes. You are the best judge, I have no experience with the newer liquid LPD, could just be quicker.