Re: [photo-3d] VM film

[Ron Beck <rbeck@xxxxxxxx>]

Thanks to all who've made comments on my start into the VM genre.  I had
two offers to punch out my film and I'll take someone up on that via
private email.

The reels I have are some of the "too much glue" that Mary Ann recently
advertised.  They really do need a treatment with the SpeeD pocket
tool.  On the advice received (see below) I tried a feeler gauge.  It
seems to open the pocket okay but may be a bit too wide.  Also, the
rounded edge really needs to be squared a bit to properly open the inner
corners.  Still, it does a better job than the paring knife I was
using.  I'll have to review the archives for more information on this.

Eddie's comments about the scissors not cutting it is pretty true.  It's
really hard to be exact with something that small.  I've contemplated
some sort of light table (or light under table) with a glass top to
illuminate the slide while I use an exacto knife for the "surgery".

Alignment has been my biggest problem so far.  Of course, I realize the
alignment problems are due to both bad trimming with my scissors and a
lousy job of opening the pockets.  Even so, it's pretty cool to see your
son on his clubhouse in your very own VM reel!

Lastly, a question.  Once you place the film chips in the VM reel
pocket, how do you get them to stay in there?

Regards,
Ron 

> Scissors just aren't going to cut it (ok bad pun)
> You really need a VM Cutter. I have cut rolls for people on a limited basis
> before to get them hooked :) and would be glad to do that for you as well.
> (That's how I got hooked)
> 
> This may allow you to get by without a pocket opener as well, but it depends
> on which run of blank reels you have (some require that Speede pocket opener
> tool)
> 
> -Eddie
>
> I'll be glad to run your Viewmaster roll through my cutter and return the
> cutout chips to you at no charge.   Maybe smoothly trimed chips will go into
> the reel easier than those cut with scissors.
> 
> Ernie