Enlarger for 6x6 neg. inc. frame edges

[antielectrons]

Hi,

I am looking to buy an enlarger (B&W) for printing my Rollei 6x6 negs.

I was looking at the Opemus 6 but am open to other suggestions.

What I do want is the ability to print the neg frame edges on my prints. Do you know if the Opemus 6 can handle this, any recommendation?

Also, I have seen nice prints with faded borders/edges. Any idea how these are produced?

Regards,
Antonio

[ann]

this edge effect is accomplished with a negative carrier, not the enlarger.

Some enlargers have full frame carriers available,i.e. beseler 45's, usually people file out a carrier for their use, or make one from matt boards.

Decide on the enlarger first, format size, light source, etc. Then just make or purchase the approciate negative carrier to create the effect.

[Jon Shiu]

You might need a glass carrier + filing to print the whole thing.

Jon

[ann]

i forgot to mention a couple of factors; if you use a filed out negative carrier you can't crop a print and have the edges show.
there are other methods to achieve a black border but they are straight edged, rather than rough.
1. purchase an easel mask made for this purpose. they come in a variety of sizes, you make the print and then use a piece of plastice cut to fit two sides of the paper, it covers the print but allows about 1/8 of an inch to be exposed to light, creating a black edge, then repeat on the opposite sides.
2. you can also make a mask to cover the print size ; cover the print leaving a border around all 4 sides and expose to light.
3. there is a very expensive easel made by Calumet that will create black borders, all even.

[antielectrons]

I see.

Anyone know if the Opemus 6 neg carrier will allow border printing without filling?

Can anyone recomend one that does?

[Jon Shiu]

A 4x5 glass carrier with masking blades would work. I think Durst and Omega both make such a device.