Polaroid film types (new and old) for image transfer

[A.C.]

I hope this thread does not exactly duplicate a previous one...
I'd like to try Polaroid image transfer processes. The question is, which 5x4 film types (colour or B&W) can successfully be used - both current (listed at Polaroid.com) and obsolete types.
I have an eye to keeping the initial cost low for an experimentation, and would be grateful for any specific advice here...several, perhaps suitable, film types are available as "expired date", but I don't know where to go!
Thank you all who may reply
A.C.

 

[ann]

what size format.

the best way i have found to remember which film is that films that end with a 9 will do transfers and lifts.
i.e 669 , 679, 809, 59, etc.

have you checked polaroid's website

outdated polaroid film can be an a "crap" shoot, as if it is too old it won't work

 

[A.C.]

sorry - 5x4 - just amended the post - thanks a lot for the first "tip" though...

 

[Roger Hicks]

Have you considered colour Xerox transfers?

Make the Xerox; use a sufficiently evil organic solvent, e.g cellulose thinners (preferably out of doors); transfer to water-colour paper.

Out-of-date Polaroid is normally only good for a VERY few months.

Cheers,

Roger (www.rogerandfrances.com)

 

[A.C.]

Roger - I'm afraid that your knowledge rather exceeds my own, I know not of what you speak...

 

[Roger Hicks]

Exactly what it says, honest.

Make any sort of print (including mini-lab from film).

Make a colour Xerox of it (ideally flopped -- or flop the original -- because the transfer will of course be reversed left for right). Many public libraries have colour Xerox machines nowadays.

Soak the colour Xerox in solvent.

Burnish down onto water-colour paper (or anything else, really) with the back of a spoon.

Cheers,

R

 

[Paul Sorensen]

Polaroid's web site lists only type 59 for color and type 54 for black and white. Not too many people seem to do black and white lifts, but apparently it works okay, you just need your water bath to be really hot.

 

[A.C.]

More top tips then - again, thanks. Keep them coming!!!
A.C.

 

[ann]

check polariod's creative sections for specifics and/or find a copy of Kathleen Carr's book on Polaoid transfers. geat reference, has wonderful examples of all sorts of creative techniques.

59 is the film you will need for 4x5's.

 

[A.C.]

("..a copy of Kathleen Carr's book on Polaoid transfers. geat reference, has wonderful examples of all sorts of creative techniques.")
Ann
Done - book search in progress - cheers
A.C.