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. Can I reuse the developer after mixing with water?

A: The Ilford Multigrade Developer has good keeping properties and so can typically be reused.

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. Is this paper developer incorporated?

A: The Ilford MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe Paper (Glossy, 11 x 14", 50 Sheets) does not have the developer incorporated into the paper. A separate developer must be purchased and used in the darkroom to develop the print.

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

A: Yes, it similar to Dektol.

Q: 6. Will this work with graded paper (not multi grade or poly contrast papers)?

A: Yes this fixer can work with graded papers.

Q: 7. How long will the developer last once opened?

A: Full unopened bottles of Ilford MULTIGRADE 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 left in an open dish should not be kept for more than one working day. If stored in a tightly capped bottle, a working strength solution may last up to 24 hours.

Q: 8. Can i develop film with this?

A: I have never used this developer on film. It is designed for B&W photographic print paper. I use Rodinal to process my film.

Q: 9. How many papers can you develop with one tray of the solution?

A: The manufacture does not list how many prints you can get from Ilford Multigrade Developer (500ml). It depends on what dilution you use, size of trays and print size.

Q: 10. 3-1/2 x500' Does this mean 3.5 inches by 500 feet? Or 3.5 feet by 500 inches?

A: This roll would be 3.5 inches by 500 feet.