What paper

[Gerry M]

for b&w? I am returning to the darkroom after many years absence. What paper is suggested (low cost?) to re-learn printing? Should I use RC, RC VC, RC graded or fiber based, or? I realize this will be mostly throw away results, so I don't want to use a premium product. I use mostly Freestyle film. Your input would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Gerry

 

[Kevin Caulfield]

Ilford RC. It's all pretty much Multigrade now. Or maybe Freestyle has their own version of another RC paper. I would go with that. Especially for learning, I would suggest to use the cheapest (within reason) RC MG paper.

 

[LudditeJay]

Freestyle does sell Arista RC paper. I believe that a 100 sheet box of 8x10 is around 33-35 dollars. I have recently began printing and have purchased a box. It is a good price to get your feet wet. I have used more than half the package already, around 70-75 sheets and have found 2-3 that were not coated thoroughly. They had splotches of what appeared to be thin spots in the emulsion.

The price is low enough to forgive a couple of imperfections and, to my amateur eyes, the results can be quite nice.

 

[Jeff Kubach]

I also have Arista RC paper. Pretty good paper for the price. Give it a try.

Jeff

 

[Wade D]

Another vote for Arista RC VC. My Ilford VC filters work fine with it. Good blacks and good tonal range. I bought a 100 sheet box last year to hone my printing skills again. 24 years without a darkroom was an eternity for me.