Who's using what for postcards.

waynecrider · May 17, 2005

I've some cut Ilford in a box left, but what are some options when finished? The heavier the better.

Dave Miller · May 17, 2005

Pester Ilford to make more - I've run out too.

titrisol · May 17, 2005

I used to use Ilford Ilfospeed in 9x14 cm for postcards.....

eric · May 17, 2005

Dave Miller said:
Pester Ilford to make more - I've run out too.

Oh man, I have 1/2 a box left. You mean Ilford isn't making them anymore? Crap. I guess I could use 5x7's and cut it to size and use the cut up pieces for test prints. What a hassle.

Now don't tell me nobody is making 5x7's.....

Aggie · May 17, 2005

I have a stock pile of 20 boxes, I am set for a while.

eric · May 17, 2005

Aren't these it or does it have to say 'postcard' on the box?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/con...=&ci=807&ac=&Submit.x=3&Submit.y=12&Submit=Go

John Bartley · May 17, 2005

I'm using Ilford postcard paper which is MGIVRC Perle (I think). It's usually in stock at my local Henrys Photo. Apparently the Ilford postcard forum is up and running at the Ilford website, so I assume that they haven't given up on postcards yet.

cheers

c6h6o3 · May 17, 2005

waynecrider said:
... but what are some options when finished? The heavier the better.

I print mine on Azo and then dry mount the 4 x 5 prints onto Strathmore Stamping Cards: http://www.strathmoreartist.com/product_specialtycards.html.

The envelopes that come with them protect the image and the stamping cards have a beautiful white color which is a perfect match for my prints. The Watercolor cards are the wrong color and have too much texture in the paper.

Bob F. · May 17, 2005

It is preferable that it is "Portfolio". Portfolio is a heavier weight paper than standard MGIV-RC. Annoyingly, Ilford do not appear to have any Portfolio in 10x15cm (approx 4x6") at all now: smallest stock size is 12x17cm (4.75"x6.75") which is a bit large, but will do I guess (PDF at http://www.ilford.com/html/us_english/wwpal.html).

Bob.

jim appleyard · May 17, 2005

I'm told that the US Post Office will send a 4x6 print with a stamp on the back. Just draw a line down the middle of the back like a real postcard would have; message on one side, address on the other. It would probably be best if the back side of the print did not have watermarks, manufacturers ID, etc. Kodak Royal paper is probably not a good one to use for postcards.

I have NOT confirmed this with the Post Office. I was told by a reliable friend who does send a few postcards.

jarred_mccaffrey · May 17, 2005

Postcard details from the USPS:

http://www.usps.com/businessmail101/mailcharacteristics/cards.htm

If you don't mind paying the price of a letter instead of a postcard, you can mail surprisingly large cards, up to 6.125 x 11.5, so a 5x7 is possible at letter rate:

http://www.usps.com/businessmail101/mailcharacteristics/letters.htm

The minimum thickness for each of the above is about that of an index card--so straight RC prints are okay.

The overachievers among us might consider mailing a full mounted print straight through the mail. The USPS would mail a mounted print up to 12x15 if it was at least 1/4 inch thick and less then 3/4 inch thick. 11x14 postcards anyone?

http://www.usps.com/businessmail101/mailcharacteristics/flats.htm

jarred_mccaffrey · May 17, 2005

Ha--I missed the most important details. Normal postcards need to be:

- Rectangular (squares need special handling since they jam the machines)
- At least 3-½ inches high x 5 inches long x .007 inch thick (index card or thicker)
- No more than 4-¼ inches high x 6 inches long x .016 inches thick

fingel · May 17, 2005

You could also use postcard stickers like these.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=146570&is=REG

waynecrider · May 17, 2005

While searching B&H today I did find the same paper used for the postcards (MGS.44K) in a 125ft roll in 4, 5 and 8 inch widths as a special order, nothing precut. Since it must be ordered you can probably expect to see it the next time they have a run of the paper or, right after you die. You can also buy the paper in 5x7, 8x10, 11x14 and 16x20 sizes. Since it probably won't be stamped on the back, I expect it might be preferable to go elsewhere, hence the question.

Bob F. · May 17, 2005

Not anymore: 10cm wide Portfolio roll is marked as "while stocks last" in Ilford's latest price list.

Don't know anyone else who sells suitably thick RC paper.

Bob.

Loose Gravel · May 17, 2005

I used to use the Kodak postcards, but they've been discontinued. Now I use test prints that I cut up and use for stationary and note cards.

Who's using what for postcards.

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