VDB

I`m about to make an order from B&S to try some VDB , but want some input on what I`m ordering, as I`m totally new to this.

So far in my shopping cart I have:

A premixed VDP-kit
Puddle Pusher coating rod (I can use the 8x10 rod for 4x5 and 5x7, right?)
100 sheets of 8x10 Cranes Kid paper.

Anything else I need to get started? Any additional chemistry to control contrast etc...?

I have a contact printng frame.

you might also try the new weston paper, the dmax is terrific for VDB, at least in our environment.

what about the chemicals for toning? selenium and/or gold

also potassium dichromate for contrast control. a 10% solution .

a few drops in the first bath can help with contrast, but is not the same having the contrast controled with the negative.

am sure others will agree or disagree with the above suggestions.

If the chemistry mix starts getting "tired", a few drops of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide can extend its life and get the contrast back to what it was - without using Chromates or other toxic chemicals which are difficult to buy in Norway.

A cheap cooking brush ( 5 for NOK 10) is my favorite way of spreading the chemicals. Discard when it gives uneven coating - I'm on my third brush now. I'll have to buy another pack next year, if I can find it...

Your puddle pusher is longer than I would prefer for 4x5" and 5x7" prints - and for 8x10" paper.

Sodium thiosulfate for fixing.

Ammonium thiosulfate, or very very dilute rapid fix for clearing highlights.

Tetenal gold toner is good, and lasts a long time. If you want to gold tone - it's not strictly necessary. KRST (IMO) is worse than useless at the extremely low concentrations needed - unless you want the print bleached at the same time as toning. I know others swear by it, so far I have only sworn at it.

Thanks Ann and Ole. I`ll order the basic kit and try to find some gold toner then. Sounds like a easy and safe start. And buy the 5x7 Puddle Pusher and some brushes and see what I like...

I found a good article here with lots of good advice. Nice looking prints, without that flat "alt-process look" that I personally dislike.

sorry i didn't recommend that article, glad you found it as it has lots of good info.

we use the gold toner mentioned in that article.

I've never used a puddle pusher but have used a glass stirring rod in the past.
I prefer a flat watercolor brush. I use a 3/4" brush for 4x5's. Just dampen the the brush with water, 'flick' it off and go. I've much better results for some reason (no specs, scratching/scraping, nice even coverage).
It's not a Richeson magic brush, it's a a $6 cheapie.