The DARKROOM COOKBOOK, Third Edition

Planning a Darkroom 9
Floors call for special consideration. They need to be protected against moisture and chemical
action. The best material is concrete with a chemical-resistant coating. The next best is
good-quality linoleum, which should be kept clean and well waxed to help prevent the penetration
of spilled solutions. This can be underlain with bitumen paper as an extra precaution
against liquids getting through and damaging the sub-fl oor. A drain is useful but not entirely
necessary if the fl oor is dried after spills.
A chemical-resistant anti-fatigue fl oor mat is another good idea. An anti-fatigue mat will
help you work longer and more comfortably, especially if your darkroom is in a basement or
garage with a concrete fl oor. The mat will also insulate you from the cold.
Cabinets, Benches, and Sinks
Benches for a darkroom can be built by a cabinetmaker, purchased ready-made as modular
kitchen units, or built by you. Sinks can also be purchased or made. I prefer a sink at least
6 feet long, preferably 8 � 10 foot. However, many photographers must make do with four
foot sinks. A four foot sink will accommodate three 11 � 14 inch trays. A six foot sink will
accommodate four 11 � 14 inch trays with barely enough room for a vertical print washer.
If you do not normally make prints larger than 8 � 10 inches, a 4 foot sink is adequate. If you
need additional space, use a set of tray ladders.
If your space is minimal you will need to run a galvanized wire or clothesline over the
sink to hang fi lm for drying—or use the bathroom as previously mentioned. If you use the
sink option the fi lm won’t be able to hang straight (a 36-exposure roll is about 5 foot long).
Attach both ends to the line via clothespins or fi lm clips.
Storage Space
Whereas counter space for the enlarger and room for the sink is essential, ample storage and
shelves are what make small darkrooms effi cient.
A light-tight “dark” drawer (Figure 1-4) located near the enlarger is an added convenience.
This will provide quick access to printing paper and eliminate the necessity of opening and
closing the package of paper every time you need a sheet.
To make a dark drawer, install a sliding lid that fi ts in a groove around the top perimeter
of the drawer. Paint the inside, including the lid, fl at black. Attach a small block of wood on
the top of the lid and another on the underside of the countertop. The blocks of wood will
push the lid closed when you close the drawer. If you do not have a dark drawer use a paper
safe, even though it occupies valuable counter space.
You can use the sink for mixing chemicals and for all processing operations. Storage
space for trays and chemical solutions should be beneath the sink. Shelves mounted two
feet above both the sink and enlarger bench will provide additional storage space for bottles
of stock solution, timers, thermometers, and other small equipment. Wooden pegs mounted
on the side or splash wall (shown in Figure 1-5) provide a place for fi lm hangers and graduates.
A towel holder mounted on or near the sink provides a place for a towel to dry your
hands.