Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch (24×30.5 cm) Pro Quality (10)

Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch – Pro Quality Black & White Photo Paper

The Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch (24×30.5 cm) photographic paper is a trusted choice among darkroom enthusiasts, fine-art printers, photography students, and professional labs. Designed to deliver consistent, high-quality black and white prints, this resin-coated paper combines excellent tonal control, sharp image detail, and fast processing times, making it ideal for both learning and professional workflows.

Ilford has been a global leader in black and white photographic materials for over a century. With the Multigrade RC Deluxe range, the brand offers a dependable solution for photographers who want predictable results, clean whites, deep blacks, and smooth mid-tones. The Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch size is especially popular for medium-sized enlargements, test prints, portfolio images, and exhibition proofs.

What Makes Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe Special?

The Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch paper uses advanced variable contrast (VC) emulsion technology. This allows photographers to control contrast grades simply by using multigrade filters or a color enlarger head, rather than switching paper grades. From soft, low-contrast images to punchy, high-contrast prints, this paper adapts to your creative intent.

The resin-coated (RC) base gives the paper a smooth surface and ensures rapid chemical processing, quick washing, and faster drying when compared to fiber-based papers. This makes it highly practical for home darkrooms, educational environments, and busy professional labs.

Key Features of Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch

Variable Contrast Control

With full multigrade compatibility, the Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch supports contrast grades from 00 to 5. This flexibility allows precise tonal adjustments for different negatives, lighting conditions, and artistic styles.

Resin-Coated Convenience

The RC base ensures:

• Shorter processing times
• Reduced water consumption
• Flat drying without curling

This makes the paper ideal for photographers who value efficiency without compromising quality.

Excellent Tonal Range

The paper produces rich blacks, clean whites, and smooth tonal transitions. Highlights remain crisp while shadow details are well preserved, making it suitable for landscapes, portraits, architecture, and documentary photography.

Sharp Image Detail

Thanks to Ilford’s refined emulsion coating, prints made on Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch show excellent edge sharpness and fine detail reproduction, even when enlarging from grainy negatives.

Ideal Uses for This Paper Size

The 9.5×12 inch (24×30.5 cm) format is extremely versatile. It sits perfectly between small test prints and large exhibition prints, making it ideal for:

• Contact sheet evaluation enlargements
• Portfolio prints
• Darkroom practice and education
• Final prints for framing
• Proofing images before large fiber prints

Many photographers prefer this size when working in compact darkrooms or when testing contrast and exposure settings.

Compatibility with Developers and Chemicals

The Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch paper is fully compatible with standard black and white paper developers, including:

• Ilford Multigrade Developer
• Ilford PQ Universal
• Ilford Bromophen

Fixing and washing times are short, and the paper performs consistently across a wide range of development conditions.

Finish and Surface Quality

RC Deluxe papers are available in pearl, glossy, and satin finishes (depending on variant). These finishes help control reflections while enhancing image depth. The smooth surface also makes spotting and handling easier compared to fiber-based papers.

Longevity and Archival Performance

When processed according to Ilford’s recommended guidelines, prints made on Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch offer excellent image stability. Proper fixing, washing, and storage will ensure prints last for decades without significant fading or discoloration.

Who Should Use Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe?

This paper is suitable for:

• Beginners learning darkroom printing
• Photography schools and institutions
• Hobbyists developing home darkrooms
• Professionals producing client proofs
• Fine-art photographers seeking consistency

The balance between quality and convenience makes the Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch one of the most widely used RC papers worldwide.

Internal Links

• Ilford Multigrade Developer – Optimized for RC Papers
  https://onestopphoto.in/product/ilford-multigrade-developer/

• Ilford Rapid Fixer for B&W Printing
  https://onestopphoto.in/product/ilford-rapid-fixer/

• Darkroom Accessories & Trays
  https://onestopphoto.in/product-category/darkroom-accessories/

External Links

These trusted resources help users understand correct darkroom practices and paper handling:

• Ilford Learning Zone – Darkroom Printing Basics
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com/learning-zone/

• Ilford Multigrade RC Paper Technical Information
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com/multigrade-rc-deluxe/

Conclusion

The Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch photographic paper is a reliable, high-performance choice for black and white darkroom printing. Its variable contrast flexibility, fast processing, excellent tonal range, and professional consistency make it suitable for photographers at every level. Whether you are producing practice prints, proofs, or final images, this paper delivers dependable results with minimal effort.

FAQs – Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch

1. Is Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe suitable for beginners?

Yes. The RC base, fast processing, and forgiving exposure latitude make it ideal for beginners learning darkroom printing.

2. Can I use this paper with a color enlarger?

Yes. The Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe 9.5×12 inch works perfectly with color enlargers using filtration to control contrast.

3. How long does RC paper take to dry?

RC paper dries much faster than fiber paper, usually within 30–60 minutes when air-dried.

4. Is this paper archival?

When properly fixed, washed, and stored, prints have excellent long-term stability.

5. Which developer gives best results?

Ilford Multigrade Developer and PQ Universal are highly recommended for optimal contrast and tone.

6. Can this paper be toned?

Yes, it is compatible with selenium and other black & white toners, though toning effects may be more subtle than fiber papers.

7. What is the difference between RC and FB paper?

RC paper offers faster processing and easier handling, while FB paper provides a more traditional fine-art look with longer processing times.