Digital BW, The Print

Out of frustration with a print that was mostly black, and difficult
to avoid flaking or streaking from pre-brushing, I tried Golden
"Archival Varnish". I don't what what lightfastness qualities it may
have, but I was a bit disappointed with the plasticy sheen it put on
the print, and the appearance of lower dmax particularly with multiple
coats.
Another slightly disappointing possibility.
Tyler

--- In DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com, "Paul Roark"
<paul.roark@v...> wrote:
> Ross,
> 
> >People in the Digital BW Forum mentioned that you recommend Lascaux 
> >Fixative spray for greater archivability of UT2 inks matte papers.
> 
> I'm not so sure any more.  I always reserve the right to change my mind.
> 
> After the last test, I'd have to say that Lascaux (B72) is good for some
> physical protection, but it did not help at all with respect to
> lightfastness.  In the past it had no effect on this issue.  This
time it
> looked like it might actually lower the lightfastness slightly. 
(This could
> be a random error it was so small.  However, it was enough to raise
a yellow
> caution flag in my mind.)
> 
> I do think that matte prints need some physical protection.  Putting
them
> under glass is great, but who wants to do this with most shots?  So,
among
> the other ways to protect the image somewhat, B72 seemed like a
relatively
> good way to go.  It *was* neutral in lightfastness, has a great
reputation
> in the conservation field, has about the least effect on dmax (matte
dmax
> often decreases with light sprays), and is easy to use.
> 
> Bottom line, it is probably a good idea if the print is otherwise
> unprotected.  However, we really need a better spray for matte
prints.  I
> have not tested many papers, but PremierArt (which increased
lightfastness
> in the last test and is great on glossy paper) lowers the dmax
unacceptably
> on some matte paper.  So, be sure to test a small test strip before
using it
> or any other spray.
> 
> Paul
> www.PaulRoark.com