Digital BW, The Print

David Wroblewski wrote:
> 
> I'm curious about the Epson Premium Semi-Matte paper that
> Paul favors. I see it comes in rolls--and that's it. (I've
> seen the premium semi-gloss.) I use a 2200, so none of the
> current roll sizes are going to work for it, and in any 
> case I'd like to check it out first.
> 
> (a) Does anyone know a vendor who'll provide a sample
> cut from a roll?
> 

I don't, but if you're looking for someone to cut down a roll you might 
inquire of Exim Vaios.  They don't list premium semimatte in their 
custom-cutting section right now, but if enough users ask for it perhaps 
they'll add it.

http://www.eximvaios.com/catalog/default.php

One warning: if it's like the Epson Ultrasmooth that they cut down, it 
will come on a roll with a core size larger than the 2200 will handle, 
so you'll need to hand cut from their size, or make your own mounting 
brackets (possibly wall-attached).

> (b) Any info on whether it will be coming out in
> sheet format?

Epson doesn't say anything about a sheet format on their site.

Of course, for a long time the site claimed they would produce 
Ultrasmooth in sheet form, and their sales department claimed it would 
be out in December.  Now the site still says it's available in sheets, 
but doesn't list any sheet sizes as available (nor as forthcoming).
> 
> (c) Is it practical to cut rolls into sheets by hand, 
> or does the curl interfere?

With the Ultrasmooth I could cut it, but then it still had a strong 
curl.  I had to reverse curl it overnight, then I could flatten it under 
weights.

I don't know whether that would be needed for semimatte.

	Walt