Ilford 12 x12" Multigrade Printing Filters are used for printing the Ilford Multigrade range of papers on black-and-white enlargers.  Ilford produces complete sets of filters for all contrast grades in half grade steps.

The twelve multigrade filters are in sets and are numbered 00-5 in .5 steps. The lowest number corresponds to the softest contrast.

Multigrade filters are supplied in 3, 6 and 12" square sizes to fit most enlarger's filter drawers, or as a set of mounted hard plastic filters for below-lens use in a filter holder.

Multigrade filters do not require any recalculation of exposure times when changing between grades 0 and 3, grades 4 to 5 simply requiring twice the exposure.

Easy to Use    No Complicated Calculations Required    Compatible with All Multigrade Papers

Easy way to control print contrast using variable contrast paper

Exposure time for filters 00-3.5 is the same; that for filters 4-5 is double

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. What is the ISO rating for this?

A: This Generation V paper features an updated emulsion with a more linear contrast profile that responds consistently and accurately to the full 00-5 range of Multigrade filters for fine tuning the look of prints. While film is given an ISO rating paper is not generally.

Q: 2. How long will this chemical last before expiring?

A: There is no posted date on the bottle, only a batch number. However, according to Ilford: "Full unopened bottles of MULTIGRADE and PQ UNIVERSAL developer concentrates stored in cool conditions, 5–20ºC, (41–68ºF), will keep for 2 years. Once opened use the concentrate completely within six months and keep all bottles tightly sealed until used. Working strength MULTIGRADE developer, PQ UNIVERSAL and BROMOPHEN left in an open dish should not be kept for more than one working day. If stored in a tightly capped bottle they may last up to 24 hours."

Q: 3. I've been using Multigrade IV RC DeLuxe Paper for a while. I wonder if there is a difference between Multigrade IV RC and Multigrade RC?

A: This Generation V paper features an updated emulsion with a more linear contrast profile that responds consistently and accurately to the full 00-5 range of Multigrade filters for fine tuning the look of prints. The paper also features a truly neutral base tint and responds especially well to different toning solutions for adjusting the final print color. The enhanced emulsion also affords deeper blacks along with enhanced mid-tone separation for greater flexibility when printing negatives of varying densities.

Q: 4. What about fixing?

A: This paper fixes just like regular FB paper, about 2-5 minutes in Sprint.

Q: 5. will this work with kodak polycontrast iii?

A: Yes, it similar to Dektol.

Q: 6. Hello,Please let me know if this filter is REALLY available. Because, I need a SET of these filters, do not like that one of them is cancelled after ordering. ?

A: I apologize, but this type of request cannot be taken care of through this feature of our website. Please contact our Customer Service department by entering Live Chat, emailing directly to cs@a href= http://bhphoto.com, target= _blank bhphoto.com,/a or calling us toll-free at 800.221.5743.

Q: 7. Can you use this for photograms?

A: Yes, you can put objects on top of the paper, exposed the paper, and then process with the B&H developer and fixer.

Q: 8. Will this work with graded paper (not multi grade or poly contrast papers)?

A: Yes this fixer can work with graded papers.

Q: 9. How does this compare to the 2150XL chemistry?

A: Ilford Multigrade Developer (Liquid) for Black & White Paper - 5 Liters is just paper developer. That is optimized for multigrade paer. The Ilford 2150 Developer/Fixer Black and White Print Chemicals Kit 2x(3 liter) is, Ilford 2150XL Developer and Ilford 2150XL Fixer are liquid concentrate chemicals supplied as a kit specifically for use with the Ilfolab 2150 RC table top processor.

Q: 10. Can I develop films with this?

A: Technically, yes. But for best results, you are significantly better off using actual film developer. Times and results will vary greatly because the concentration/strength/developing time and grain structure will be quite different. You will also have to experiment with dilution for best results.