FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” Premium Quality Resin Coated – 100

Inrtoduction:

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” is one of the most trusted black & white variable contrast photo papers for photographers who demand consistent quality and precision in their darkroom prints. Manufactured by FOMA Bohemia, a Czech company with a legacy dating back to 1921, this paper combines traditional craftsmanship with modern coating technology to produce beautiful, archival-quality results.

Overview

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” is a resin-coated (RC), variable contrast (multigrade) black & white enlarging paper with a matt finish. Designed for both amateur and professional darkroom users, this paper delivers fine tonal gradation, rich midtones, and excellent highlight control. Each sheet measures 10.5 x 14.8 cm (4” x 6”), making it perfect for small format prints, test strips, or contact proofs. This photo paper is engineered to provide exceptional printing latitude, whether you’re creating high-contrast artistic images or smooth, low-contrast portraits.

Key Features of FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6”

1. Variable Contrast Capability (Multigrade System):
   The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” supports contrast control through multigrade filters (ranging from grades 0 to 5). This feature allows you to fine-tune the contrast of your prints using standard color or contrast filters without changing the paper type.

2. Resin-Coated Base (RC):
   The RC base ensures quick processing, rapid drying, and enhanced dimensional stability. Unlike fiber-based papers, FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” RC sheets remain flat and resist curling — ideal for high-volume printing sessions or educational darkrooms.

3. Matt Surface Finish:
   The smooth matt surface offers a non-reflective look, making it perfect for exhibitions, portfolios, and fine art photography. It gives images a professional aesthetic with minimal glare and excellent tonal separation.

4. High D-Max and Brilliant Whites:
   The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” is known for its rich blacks (high D-max) and bright whites, providing strong contrast and visual depth — essential for both portrait and landscape prints.

5. Consistent and Easy to Handle:
   This paper is optimized for manual or machine processing in developer systems such as FOMATOL LQN or Ilford Multigrade Developer, offering predictable results every time.

6. Archival Quality:
   The emulsion coating and resin layers are designed for long-lasting durability. When properly processed and stored, prints made on FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” can last for decades without noticeable degradation.

Ideal for a Range of Applications

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” is ideal for:

• Fine art black and white prints
• Darkroom test prints or proof sheets
• Photographic education and training
• Exhibition-quality printing
• Contact printing from negatives

Its small 4×6” size makes it convenient for testing exposure and filtration before committing to larger prints, saving both time and chemicals.

Printing and Processing

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” works perfectly with any standard black and white enlarger. To adjust contrast levels, use multigrade filters such as the Foma Multigrade Filter Set or Ilford Multigrade Filters.

For optimal results:

• Developer: FOMATOL LQN or ADOX Neutol ECO
• Stop Bath: FOMA Indicator Stop Bath or Ilford Ilfostop
• Fixer: FOMAFIX or Ilford Rapid Fixer
• Wash: 2–4 minutes for RC papers

Drying time is minimal, and prints are ready for handling within 10 minutes of washing.

Why Choose FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6”?

• ✅ Excellent tonal control – from deep blacks to subtle highlights
• ✅ Fast processing – perfect for busy darkrooms or classrooms
• ✅ Long archival life – suitable for galleries and professional archives
• ✅ Economical 100-sheet pack – ideal for consistent testing or bulk printing
• ✅ Made by FOMA Bohemia – trusted European photo materials since 1921

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” combines FOMA’s century-long tradition of photographic excellence with modern emulsion chemistry, ensuring you get dependable and repeatable darkroom performance.

Technical Specifications

Tips for Best Results with FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6”

1. Maintain consistent temperature in chemical baths (around 20°C).
2. Use fresh chemicals for cleaner highlights and consistent tone.
3. Avoid overexposure — RC papers react faster than fiber-based types.
4. Store paper in a cool, dry, and dark environment to prevent fogging.
5. Experiment with multigrade filters to explore the full contrast range.

By mastering contrast control, you can unlock the complete expressive range that the FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” offers.

Why Photographers Trust FOMA Papers

FOMA has been manufacturing photographic papers for over a century. The FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” continues this tradition by offering a blend of European quality, affordability, and reliability. Whether you’re an analog enthusiast or a student learning darkroom printing, this paper ensures professional-grade output with minimal effort.

The emulsion design of FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” is similar in performance to classic brands like Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe or Kodak Polycontrast, but often at a more accessible price point.

Some Useful Links From Our Store

• Foma Multigrade Filter Set – Adjust paper contrast easily.
• Fomatol LQN Developer  – Perfect match for FOMASPEED VAR papers.
• FOMA Fomafix Rapid Fixer  – Ensures archival permanence.
• Paterson Film Developing Tank PTP115 – For processing your negatives.

External Links – Trusted References

• FOMA Bohemia Official Website – Learn more about the manufacturer and full product line.
• Ilford Photo – Multigrade RC Papers Guide – Learn how variable contrast papers work.
• Wikipedia: Photographic Paper – Understand how RC and FB papers differ.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What type of finish does FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” have?
It features a matt resin-coated finish, which provides a smooth, non-reflective surface ideal for artistic and archival prints.

Q2: Is FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” suitable for beginners?
Yes. Its wide exposure latitude and forgiving processing make it perfect for both beginners and professionals.

Q3: What chemicals should I use with this paper?
You can use Fomatol LQN, Ilford Multigrade, or Adox Neutol ECO developers for excellent tonal control.

Q4: How should I store unused paper?
Keep it sealed in a cool, dry, and dark place to avoid light fogging and humidity damage.

Q5: Is the paper compatible with all enlargers?
Yes, FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” works with all black & white enlargers using white or filtered light sources.

Q6: What makes this paper different from FOMABROM VAR 111?
While both are from FOMA, the FOMASPEED VAR 313 4×6” is an RC paper (faster drying, easier handling), whereas the FOMABROM VAR 111 is a fiber-based baryta paper offering classic tonality