Rollei Black Magic Kit grade normal
Rollei Black Magic Kit – Normal Gradation
The Rollei Black Magic Kit is the perfect introduction to the world of individually coated black-and-white image carriers. It contains all essential components for creating and processing light-sensitive surfaces – ideal for creative, experimental, or artistic applications.
At the heart of the kit is the Rollei Black Magic silver gelatin photo emulsion with normal gradation, which can be applied to a wide range of materials: paper, wood, glass, canvas, ceramics, metal, or textiles. Once dry, the coated material is exposed and processed just like traditional black-and-white photographic paper.
Contents of the kit (each 250ml):
- Rollei Black Magic Photo Emulsion – Normal Gradation
- Rollei RPN Print Neutral (paper developer)
- Rollei RCS Citro Stop (low-odor stop bath)
- Rollei RXN Fix Neutral (neutral fixer)
- Rollei Black Magic Hardener (to stabilize the emulsion layer)
- Rollei Black Magic Gelatine (base layer for highly absorbent materials)
The additional gelatine serves as a subcoating for highly absorbent or uneven substrates – improving adhesion and smoothness of the emulsion layer. The hardener stabilizes the dried emulsion after fixation and increases its resistance to mechanical stress.
Note on light sensitivity:
This emulsion has a relatively low sensitivity – approximately ISO 1 to 3 in practice. This requires longer exposure times but also allows for very precise control over the final image. Especially with strong light sources or large-format projections, this characteristic becomes an advantage. A brief test series is recommended to determine optimal exposure time.
Key Features:
- Complete set for creative darkroom processes
- Normal gradation (approx. grade 2)
- All necessary chemistry included in 250ml bottles
- For use on paper, wood, glass, ceramics, metal, textiles, etc.
- Processed with standard black-and-white chemicals
- Apply using brush, coating blade, or pouring techniques
- Emulsion should be pre-warmed to approx. 35°C before use
- Yield depends on substrate and application thickness
Pairs well with
Rollei Black Magic Kit grade normal
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FAQs
What do I need to develop black-and-white film?
For classic black-and-white film development, you need three baths:
Developer – makes the exposed image visible
Stop bath – stops the development process
Fixer – stabilizes the image and makes it light-resistant
With the Rollei Film Chemistry Kit, you get all three components in one perfectly matched set:
- Rollei RSG = developer
- Rollei RCS = stop bath (citrate-based, low odor)
- Rollei RXA = universal fixer
A compact solution for everyone who wants to develop black-and-white film at home – easy to use and precise in results.
Which chemistry is suitable for color film?
Color films require special development processes. For color negative film, this is the C-41 process.
The Rollei Colorchem C-41 Kit contains all essential components – color developer, bleach-fix (blix), and stabilizer – precisely balanced for safe processing at 38 °C. It delivers color-accurate negatives with fine grain and good longevity.
Note: Slide films (reversal films) require a different process – the E-6 process, which is more complex and not compatible with C-41.
How long do photo chemicals last?
It depends on the type of chemical, how it’s stored, and whether it’s been opened:
- Unopened concentrates: usually last 1–2 years if kept in a cool, dark place
- Opened concentrates: can last a few weeks to several months, depending on air exposure and storage
- Mixed working solutions: are typically good for a few days to a few weeks
Pro tip: If it smells off, changes color, or shows sediment – it’s probably time to toss it. For maximum shelf life, always store your chemicals airtight, cool, and away from light.
Can I reuse photo chemistry?
Yes, many photo chemicals can be reused – especially fixers, stop baths, and some developers.
The exact number of uses depends on the type of product, dilution, and volume of material processed.
Fixers can even be regenerated – for example, by adding fresh concentrate or a dedicated replenisher.
This is especially worthwhile if you're processing frequently and want to maintain consistent performance over time.
With developers, regeneration is more difficult: many are sensitive to oxidation and lose activity with each use.
A simple top-up usually isn’t enough – fresh working solutions are generally the more reliable choice.
Stop baths are typically replaced once the pH level shifts (e.g., when a color indicator changes, as in citrate-based stops).
Pro tip: If you process regularly, it’s helpful to track your usage (e.g., number of rolls or prints) to know when to refresh or regenerate your chemistry.
How do I properly dispose of used photo chemicals?
Photo chemicals should never be poured down the drain or thrown in the trash!
They contain substances that can harm the environment – especially fixer, which may contain residual silver. Used chemistry should be taken to a hazardous waste collection site or local recycling center. In some regions, labs or photo retailers also offer disposal services.
Pro tip: For small quantities, collect the chemicals in tightly sealed and clearly labeled containers and dispose of them all at once. Always follow your local regulations for disposing of photographic and lab chemicals.