Bedroom to Dry Darkroom Conversion Project

[480sparky]

And so it begins.

Having mulled it over, I decided to convert a spare bedroom into a dry darkroom. My goal is to have a 'permanent' darkroom set up, but one that can easily be dismantled should the need for the space require it be a bedroom again. So after a bit of planning, measuring and scheming, the project was commenced. I started last night cleaning some of the stuff out, and this morning took the bed apart.

My biggest issue is a window on a south-facing wall, making it light-tight and all. But I didn't want a permanent cover. So I stopped by the local fabric store and picked up some black felt, and a couple 2x2s at Home Depot. I cut the 2x2's to fit snugly in the window opening, holding the black felt up... basically it's all friction-fit. As expected, it doesn't stop all the light,

but I have some old paneling laying around that I will screw to the 2x2s to complete the light trap. The felt is more to seal around the perimeter of the makeshift frame.

Once this is done, I will simply lean the bed up against that part of the wall & window. Then I will start building some simple 2x4/plywood work areas, one to hold the enlarger and another for the various trays. The enlarger will be on the left side of the image, and the trays between it and the corner.

 

[gsgary]

I use my small bedroom and wash the prints in the bathroom

 

[480sparky]

I'll use a fourth tray for a preliminary rinse, then do a final in the bathroom while cleaning the trays.

 

[timor]

I'll use a fourth tray for a preliminary rinse, then do a final in the bathroom while cleaning the trays.

Use large plastic bin instead of tray. Holds more water which is better for preliminary rinse, it's also easier to carry without spilling.

 

[480sparky]

I'll use a fourth tray for a preliminary rinse, then do a final in the bathroom while cleaning the trays.

Use large plastic bin instead of tray. Holds more water which is better for preliminary rinse, it's also easier to carry without spilling.

I have some 11x14 trays I use for prerinse. Water from there will be poured into a bucket for MUCH easier disposal in the bathroom.

 

[timor]

I'll use a fourth tray for a preliminary rinse, then do a final in the bathroom while cleaning the trays.

Use large plastic bin instead of tray. Holds more water which is better for preliminary rinse, it's also easier to carry without spilling.

I have some 11x14 trays I use for prerinse. Water from there will be poured into a bucket for MUCH easier disposal in the bathroom.

That's swell, but I am talking about 10 liters of water versus 2. Unless you empty the tray every 5-6 prints the amount of fixer in this small tray will grow. and when it gets between layers of raisin it is worst to get it out, than from FB paper.

 

[480sparky]

I rarely make more than 4-5 prints a session. So that's not an issue.

Window successfully darkened.

Carcass for workspace built.

Gonna cut the plywood before it gets too dark, then call it good for the night.

 

[timor]

I rarely make more than 4-5 prints a session. So that's not an issue.

You win (this way).

 

[480sparky]

Plywood tops installed, and most of the gear has been hauled in.

 

[timor]

Looks good !

 

[PWhite214]

My 'wet table' is two folding saw horses with plywood. Easy to fold up and store it I had to. I laid 2 x 4 on the floor around the base and made a containment basin with heavy duty plastic. There will be a spill sometime.

Phil

 

[Designer]

IMO you need to get with an electrician to install some more outlets.

Oh, and either make one a switched outlet or have a dedicated point for the safelight(s).

 

[KenC]

When you're not using the extra bedroom as a darkroom you could rent it out to photographers nostalgic for the smell of developer.

 

[480sparky]

IMO you need to get with an electrician to install some more outlets.

Oh, and either make one a switched outlet or have a dedicated point for the safelight(s).

I only need on receptacle. Enlarger and safelight are controlled with the timer.

 

[JustJazzie]

ohh! Ill be following this project. Its looking spectacular! A darkroom has always been on my wish-list, but seems impractical right now. The darkroom was always my favorite part of photography when I shot film. It is so cathartic inside.