P3D Re: DIY Processing

[George Gioumousis <georggms@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Michael Georgoff wrote
> 
> There are what appears to be simple 3-step E6 kits, I figure maybe a
> changing bag, and tank and some chemistry, I could probably do it.  I
> note that LA-based Freestyle has a "variable temperature E6 3-step, thus
> eliminating the need for the 100-degree temperature bath.  Anyone tried
> these?  I have no idea what the yields are, so I have no idea what cost
> per roll to process nets out to.
>
I have done it, in the dim, distant past, and quite succesfully. The most
difficult part was keeping the temperature constant. As a former chemist,
I managed to pull it off, but it's fussy. First make sure that no one else
uses any water, hot or cold. Then turn the hot to a bit more than a trickle,
then turn the cold on so that the water is close to correct. Now read a book
or play with the tank and changing bag until the temperature stabilizes.
Now adjust the cold till it is within a degree (forgot to mention - get
a good thermometer), then let it settle a little longer. Let the water 
fill a bathroom sink, or a basin, mix the solutions and go.
> 
> Another alternative is reversal processing for black & white film, to
> yield B&W transparencies.  Okay, not color, but we do have stereo pairs
> here.  Processing options are either the Kodak T-Max reversal kit, or a
> kit available from Photographers Formulary ("formula developed by Hans
> F. Dietreich and appeared in the March/April 1988 issue of Darkroom
> Techniques": Anyone get this publication?).  Film can certainly be had
> cheap.
> 
Still another alternative is using BW negatives and making contact prints
on Kodak 5302, Fine Grain Release Positive Film. This only comes in 100
foot rolls, but it is quite inexpensive. Hard to find; Adolph Gasser in
San Francisco has it downstairs. Speed is about the same as enlarging 
paper. I used up almost half a can years ago before it got too old. I'm
on my second one now. The results were striking. 
>
> georgoff@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> (replies off-list welcome)
> 
Good luck,

                           Stereo                Stereo
George Gioumousis           /---\        |       /---\ 
                             o o         |       o o  
georggms@xxxxxxxxxx           |          |         |   
                            \===/        |       \===/ 
                        Photographer          Photographer


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