FOMA Universal BW Developer – Powerful 1L Solution

Introduction

If you’re a black and white photography enthusiast or professional, you know that the chemical process plays a vital role in determining the final image quality. The FOMA Universal BW Developer is an all-purpose developer formulated for both black and white film and photographic paper, making it an indispensable part of any analog darkroom.

Whether you’re working with negatives, positive prints, or experimenting with different papers, this 1-liter solution gives consistent and high-quality results across the board. FOMA, a well-known Czech manufacturer of photographic materials since 1921, has engineered this developer to meet the needs of photographers looking for flexibility and reliability in black and white processing.

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Key Features of FOMA Universal BW Developer

• Suitable for both black and white film and photographic paper
• Powder formula to make 1 liter of working solution
• Produces fine grain, high-resolution negatives
• Ensures excellent tonal range and contrast
• Ideal for darkroom users who process multiple B/W formats
• Compatible with most B/W materials from Ilford, Kodak, Kentmere, etc.

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Why Choose FOMA Universal BW Developer?

The FOMA Universal BW Developer simplifies your darkroom workflow. Instead of using different chemicals for film and paper, this versatile option streamlines your process—saving you time, money, and storage space. Whether you shoot 35mm, 120, or sheet film, or develop fiber-based or RC photo paper, this developer adapts beautifully to different materials and gives reliable results every time.

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Consistent Chemistry for All Your Needs

One of the standout benefits of FOMA Universal BW Developer is its consistency. The formula is based on Metol-Hydroquinone (MQ) chemistry, similar to trusted developers like Kodak D-76 or Ilford ID-11. However, it is optimized by Foma for universal application—meaning it works equally well for negatives and prints.

Its balanced activity helps achieve:

• Medium contrast for accurate tonality
• Controlled grain for sharp details
• Uniform development across the film surface

These features are particularly helpful when printing negatives with fine shadow and highlight detail.

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How to Mix and Use

The FOMA Universal BW Developer is provided in powder form. When mixed with water, it yields 1 liter of working solution. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Mixing: Dissolve the contents into water at 20°C (68°F), stirring continuously.
2. Film Development: Standard development time for 100 ISO film is 7–9 minutes at 20°C.
3. Paper Development: For resin-coated paper, develop for 1–2 minutes; for fiber-based, up to 3 minutes is recommended.

For full technical instructions, Foma provides a comprehensive datasheet (PDF).

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Compatible Film and Paper Brands

The FOMA Universal BW Developer works excellently with:

• Fomapan 100, 200, and 400 B/W films
• Ilford HP5, FP4, Kentmere 100/400
• Kodak Tri-X, T-Max
• ADOX and Rollei films
• Multigrade RC & FB Papers like Ilford and Foma’s own FOMA Variant papers

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Versatile for Hobbyists and Pros Alike

This developer is not only for professionals. If you’re just getting into film photography or starting to print in your home darkroom, FOMA Universal BW Developer is a cost-effective and straightforward choice. Its universal formula means fewer chemicals to buy and manage, and the results are consistently high-quality.

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External Learning Resources

Want to learn more about black and white film development? Check out:

• Ilford’s Official B&W Film Processing Guide –
• Kodak’s Processing B&W Films – Tech Publication –

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Related Products You Might Like

• Fomapan 100 B/W 35mm Bulk Film Roll – 100ft
• FOMA Fix P U1 – Reliable B&W Powder Fixer
• FOMADON LQR 250ml – Fine Grain Liquid Film Developer
• Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe Paper – Pearl Finish

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Packaging and Storage

The product is supplied in a sealed pouch, designed to keep the powder dry and stable. Once mixed, the solution should be stored in an airtight bottle and used within a few weeks for optimal results.

• Shelf life (powder): Several years if unopened and stored properly
• Shelf life (solution): ~4–6 weeks depending on storage and usage

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Conclusion

If you’re looking for a reliable, flexible, and economical developer, the FOMA Universal BW Developer is hard to beat. With its consistent performance across both film and paper, it’s a smart choice for photographers at any level. Whether you’re printing in a professional darkroom or developing in your bathroom, this 1-liter mix helps you get the best out of your black and white photography.

FAQs – FOMA Universal BW Developer

1. What is the FOMA Universal BW Developer used for?

It is an all-purpose developer suitable for both black & white film and photographic paper.

2. How much solution does one pack make?

One pouch makes 1 liter of working solution.

3. Which films can I use with it?

It works with Fomapan, Ilford, Kodak, Kentmere, ADOX, Rollei, and most B&W films.

4. What are the typical film development times?

Most ISO 100 films require 7–9 minutes at 20°C.

5. What about paper development times?

• RC paper → 1–2 minutes
• Fiber-based paper → 2–3 minutes

6. How should I mix the powder?

Add the powder to 20°C water and stir continuously until fully dissolved.

7. How long does the mixed solution last?

Approximately 4–6 weeks when stored in an airtight container.

8. Is the FOMA Universal BW Developer suitable for beginners?

Yes! It is beginner-friendly, stable, easy to mix, and delivers professional-quality results.