Loading 120 film on developing reel

colivet said:

I need some help. I can't seem to manage to load 120 film into the damn developing reel. Is there a great trick to do this? Are there some reels easier to load than others?
Thanks

Christian

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I use Hewes reels. I think they are easier to load than the generic stainless ones I have. My method is to unwind the film from the paper backing and pull the tape loose from the paper. I leave it on the film and fold it back to the film. I load the tape end first into the spring on the reel.

I use plastic reels and usually have no problems. Sometimes when I'm doing a batch of film I don't dry the reels properly and the film sticks...120 and 35mm. This has been mentioned previously so ensure a dry reel. I also use a small nail clipper and clip off a small part of the edge of the film (again 120 & 35mm) at the tip. This creates a rounded edge and offers less resistance to the reel and slides on easily.