Opening film packets without generating lint
OK. I admit it. Autodidacts have the worst possible instructors.
Has anyone found a clean, lint-free way to open a film packet in a changing bag? I have found solutions to every other practical LF problem by myself (or searching here :-), but this one has me stumped.
I am reluctant to have a scalpel or guillotine in the bag with my tender fingers. I have used scissors, but they're not perfect. Tearing is right out. Is there some clever way to prise apart the package without getting paper fibres everywhere?
The lack of 50-sheet boxes just rubs salt into the wound.
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
Dear Struan,
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Struan Gray
I am reluctant to have a scalpel or guillotine in the bag with my tender fingers. I have used scissors, but they're not perfect. Tearing is right out. Is there some clever way to prise apart the package without getting paper fibres everywhere?
Ditto about a scalpel blade. And yes, for a while I used scissors as well, but eventually dropped them as they really were a pain. So now I just find the nick, or don't find it, and tear. Still, I haven't noticed an increase in rubbish on the film since beginning to tear. If you don't mind me asking, then, why is tearing out of the question?
Kind regards,
Richard
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Richard Mahoney
...why is tearing out of the question?
I find paper fibres all over the inside of the changing bag. Not masses, but enough to make we want to find A Better Way (tm).
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
Haven't tried this, but...
What about one of those promotional letter openers?
It's a chunk of plastic (with the company name on it) and a razor blade embedded safely within. You just put what you want to slide in the opening and pull it thru.
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
I routinely use children's craft scissors in the dark bag whether opening a film pack or trimming the leader off 35mm for loading. They are metal, but short and have rounded tips. No problems thus far.
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Stoogley
Haven't tried this, but...
What about one of those promotional letter openers?
It's a chunk of plastic (with the company name on it) and a razor blade embedded safely within. You just put what you want to slide in the opening and pull it thru.
I like this idea. One of these, right?
https://www.my-accessories.co.uk/med...cz02-black.jpg
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
Use Ilford sheet film - there's no paper packet to rip or cut open.
Or get an empty Ilford sheet film box from someone who uses it, open your other-brand film packet in the darkroom and transfer the stack of film to the Ilford plastic bag + box for carrying in the field.
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
Or use Fuji film, it comes in a plastic packet.
Re: Opening film packets without generating lint
I use one of these. The smallest Swiss Army knife I've found. The tiny scissors are just the ticket for opening film bags in a changing tent. I've done it over and over and over without problems.