cutting film - what to use?

[Richard Rankin]

I have a pile of 8x10 x-ray film. I bought a great whole plate lens from Garrett (goamules) and then bought a whole plate camera to use it on.

I have a pretty large Harrison tent, but I am a klutz and bleed using a screwdriver. So, I'm thinking I need a safe, efficient tool to cut the cheap 8x10 x-ray film down 1.5" on two sides to 8 1/2 x 6 1/2 inside the tent and without medical intervention.

Any suggestions? I need cheap and non-threatening...

TIA,
Richard

[tgtaylor]

Richard,

You don't need absolute darkness to work with X-ray film like you do with ordinary film. Cut it down under an ordinary safe light so you cn see what you are doing. A rotatrim or ordinary paper cutter will do - especially if it has a scale.

Thomas

[DarkroomDan]

I agree with what Thomas said and would add two things. 1) You need to be very careful to avoid scratching the film - it may well have emulsion on both sides. 2) Gloves are useful to keep from leaving hand prints on the film while positioning and holding it down in your cutter.

Dan