Rollei Black Magic Kit variable
Rollei Black Magic Kit – Variable Gradation
The Rollei Black Magic Kit with variable gradation offers maximum creative freedom for coating photographic substrates individually. It’s aimed at those who enjoy creative darkroom processes – whether experimental, artistic, or technically refined.
At the core of this set is the Rollei Black Magic photo emulsion with variable gradation. It can be applied to a wide range of materials – such as paper, canvas, wood, glass, metal, ceramics, or textiles – and allows precise contrast control using Multigrade filters or color head enlargers, just like with modern VC papers.
Contents of the kit (each 250ml):
- Rollei Black Magic Photo Emulsion – Variable 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 (for emulsion layer stabilization)
- Rollei Black Magic Gelatine (primer for highly absorbent materials)
The gelatine provides a smooth base layer for porous or uneven substrates, while the hardener is applied after development to stabilize the dried emulsion layer and increase its mechanical resilience.
Note on light sensitivity:
This emulsion is significantly slower than photographic film, with a practical sensitivity of about ISO 1 to 3. This results in longer exposure times, which in turn allow very precise control of the image effect. Especially when working with strong light sources or large-format projections, this low sensitivity offers creative advantages. A short exposure test series is recommended.
Key Features:
- Complete set for creative darkroom processes with variable gradation
- All essential chemicals included (250ml each)
- Multigrade functionality: contrast control via filters or color head
- Suitable for paper, wood, glass, metal, textiles, ceramics, and more
- Compatible with standard black-and-white processing chemistry
- Application with brush, coating blade, or pouring techniques
- Emulsion should be pre-warmed to approx. 35°C before use
- Coverage depends on substrate and application thickness
Pairs well with
Rollei Black Magic Kit variable
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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.