Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ – Top Quality B&W, 25 Sheets

Introduction about Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″

If you’re seeking a reliable, high-quality black & white printing surface, then Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ is a standout choice. With its resin-coated (RC) base and variable-contrast emulsion, this paper gives darkroom printers the flexibility and control for rich tonal prints—while maintaining good processing speed and ease of handling.

Key Features & What Sets It Apart

• Variable Contrast Capability – The Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ supports a wide contrast range thanks to its multigrade emulsion design, allowing you to push from very soft to very hard contrast depending on filter and exposure settings. According to manufacturer specs, this paper series emphasises “ultra-wide contrast range, which makes possible to get good prints from negatives with extremely low or extremely high contrast.”

• Resin-Coated (RC) Base – As opposed to fibre-based papers, the RC construction of the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ gives you faster wash times, less curling, and a flat, stable sheet after processing.

• Matte Surface (or Available Finish) – The Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ series offers a matte finish, making it ideal for exhibition prints where glare might be a concern. For a detailed overview of this paper’s features and performance, you can watch the following video:

  👉 Foma Fomaspeed 312 Variant III VC RC Matte Black & White Photographic Paper Overview

• Trusted Brand & Proven Legacy – Manufactured by Foma (Czech Republic) with a long history in black & white materials, the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ continues a tradition of serious darkroom products.

• Ideal Size for Medium/Small Format Prints – The 7×9.5″ size is well suited for photographers printing from 6×7 cm or 4×5 inch negatives who want a moderate enlargement size without moving into large-format roll sizes.

Why Choose Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ in Your Darkroom Workflow

When you select Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″, you’re choosing a paper that balances quality, flexibility and practicality. Because it’s RC you’ll find processing times are shorter (good for batch printing or frequent use), yet the variable contrast gives you creative control you’d expect from higher-end fibre-based papers. For example, paper washes are quicker and the sheet dries flat — advantages when you’re repeating prints or working on deadlines.

If you’ve been using fixed-contrast papers or standard multigrade RC papers, moving to the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ lets you respond better to negatives of varying density, saving time on test strips and giving more consistent results across your edition prints.

Processing Tips & Best Practices

• Exposure & Contrast: Since the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ is variable contrast, employ a multigrade filter set or variable-contrast enlarger head. Start with a mid-contrast filter and evaluate a test strip to dial in highlight and shadow separation.

• Development Time: Use the paper manufacturer’s recommended chemistry and time; although many user reports note the 312 series develops cleanly with standard B&W chemistry.

• Wash Time: Thanks to its RC base, the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ requires significantly less wash time than fibre-based papers — meaning you can finish and dry prints in less time. Lens Notes

• Mounting & Presentation: If mounting or framing, the flat-drying nature of RC is helpful — the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ sheets will remain flat, minimising curl or bowing.

• Negative Quality & Grain: To get the best from your Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″, ensure your negatives are well-exposed and developed. This paper will show detail when done well; under-developed negatives may yield weaker shadow definition.

• Toning/Finishing: While RC papers are less common for extreme archival or custom toning than fibre-based options, many photographers still tone resin-coated prints successfully. If archival permanence is critical, verify your processing and archival storage methods. Ilford Photo

Use Cases & Ideal Applications

• Studio Edition Prints: Use the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ for limited edition studio prints where you want consistent quality, but need a faster workflow than fibre-base allows.

• Portfolio & Test Proofing: Because of its usability and flat drying, this paper size and type are great for proofing and portfolio prints before scaling up to larger sizes.

• Educational/Workshop Use: Darkroom classes or workshops will appreciate the forgiving process of the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ — especially for students learning contrast control and printmaking.

• Medium-Format Printing: Photographers working with 6×7 cm or 4×5 inch negatives will find this 7×9.5″ size a good match for moderate enlargements without going to large sheet sizes.

• Home Darkroom: For the dedicated home darkroom enthusiast, Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ delivers professional-level output with manageable processing demands.

Comparison to Fibre-Based Papers

While the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ offers many benefits, it’s useful to understand how RC papers compare to fibre-based (FB) papers:

• Fibre-based papers are often considered the gold standard for archival quality and have a heavier feel, richer tonal depth and are preferred by many fine art printers.

• RC papers like the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ offer faster processing, less curling, and easier handling — ideal when speed and convenience matter.

• If your main concern is archival permanency (for museum-quality prints lasting many decades), some conservators still favour FB papers; however, modern RC papers have improved significantly and can still produce excellent results when properly processed. Ilford Photo

Why Your Darkroom Shouldn’t Overlook It

It’s tempting for darkroom practitioners to reach automatically for fibre base prints for “premium” work. But the reality is that the differences in output quality between modern RC and FB papers are narrowing, and workflow efficiency counts. For many photographers and printmakers, the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ offers a pragmatic blend of performance and value. When you factor in the time saved, reduced curling and ease of handling, this paper becomes an excellent tool in your darkroom arsenal.

Do not “settle” for generic RC or fixed-contrast solutions when you can print on a name brand, variable contrast resin coated paper designed for professional B&W printing. The Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ is that kind of product — built for serious darkroom work, but accessible for regular use.

Some Useful Links (form our site)

• Link to your general darkroom accessories category: Darkroom Paper & Chemicals
• Link to other Foma products you carry: Fomaspeed 311 Variant Gloss RC Paper
• Link to your blog post on printing tips: How to Master Variable Contrast Papers

Learn More:

• Ilford Photo
• FOMASPEED VARIANT(PDF)
• Understanding RC vs. Fiber-Based Papers

 Conclusion:

The Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5 is an excellent choice for photographers and darkroom enthusiasts seeking high-quality B&W prints.
Its variable contrast emulsion provides precise tonal control for a wide range of negatives.
The smooth matte finish and RC base ensure faster processing, flat-drying prints, and minimal curling.
Perfect for gallery prints, portfolios, or educational proofs, it delivers consistent, professional results.
Investing in the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5 guarantees rich tonal depth, archival stability, and superior darkroom performance.

FAQs About Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″

1. What contrast grades can I achieve with the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″?
   Being a variable-contrast (VC) paper, you can use multigrade filters (e.g., grade 00 to grade 5) to move from very soft to very hard contrast. The 312 series is described as offering “ultra-wide contrast range”.

2. Is the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ suitable for toning (e.g., selenium toning)?
   Yes, many users do tone RC papers, including the 312 series, though fibre-based papers are often preferred for toning due to their structure. With proper processing you can tone prints from this paper successfully.

3. What finish does the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ have?
   The listed size 7×9.5″ generally is offered in a matte finish (in some markets), which reduces glare and gives a more subdued look. Other surface finishes may exist depending on region or stock.

4. How does processing time compare using this paper vs fibre-based?
   Because the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ is resin coated, it requires shorter wash times, dries flat and is easier to handle than fibre-based papers, which require longer washes and careful drying. Lens Notes+1

5. Can I use the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ for large prints?
   While the size 7×9.5″ is moderate, Foma offers the 312 series in larger sizes or roll formats (e.g., “42.5″ × 33′ roll”) for larger formats.

6. What darkroom chemistry works best with this paper?
   Standard black & white developing chemistry designed for silver chlorobromide papers works well. The 312 series uses a silver chlorobromide emulsion. Photographic Paper Overview video

7. Is the Fomaspeed VAR 312 RC Paper 7×9.5″ archival quality?
   Yes, when properly processed and stored, RC papers like this can be very durable. However, if “museum-life 100 + years” permanence is required, some fine art printers may still prefer fibre-based papers. Ilford Photo

8. What negative format is best matched with the 7×9.5″ size?
   Medium format negatives (6×7 cm, 4×5 inch) or small format enlargements of 35 mm/immediate prints can fit well into this size; choose based on your negative size and desired enlargement ratio