How to Turn a Bathroom into a Darkroom

A spare bathroom is an ideal place for a darkroom. Since the bathroom already has running water, counter space and electricity, you are already halfway to a darkroom. A few hours work can change an extra bathroom into a fully functional darkroom, just follow these simple steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Processing chemicals
• Waterproof bench or table
• Safe light
• Dark fabric
• Plywood and wood strips
• Extractor fan
• Duct tape or weather stripping
• Enlarger
• Light proof paper container

1. Block out the light from the bathroom. The room must be sealed off completely from any light. Cover all the windows with plywood or a thick fabric. Use duct tape or weather striping to block out any remaining light. Make sure there is no light seeping in around the door. If there is, use a strip of wood or weather stripping to block out the light.
2. Turn off the light, shut the door and check for light leaks. Take a few minutes and let your eyes adjust to the dark. Look around for any light coming in. Block out any light you see. Repeat this step until you have complete darkness.
3. Ventilate the darkroom. Install an extractor fan to ventilate the space. When using the darkroom, the chemicals in the air require proper ventilation.
4. Set up a safe light in the darkroom. Safe lights can be purchased at most hardware stores. A safe light brightens your darkroom but does not harm your film or pictures.
5. Put a waterproof table or bench in the bathtub for your developing trays. The bathtub is the best place because you can mix the water and use the shower nozzle to spray off prints.
6. Run a wire or cord across the bathtub or over the sink to hang your film and photos as they dry.
7. Designate one of the bathroom drawers for light sensitive photo paper. Keep the paper in a light resistant book or container.
8. Place your photo enlarger on the counter close to an electrical outlet.
9. Organize your darkroom so that all your chemicals are clearly marked and you have everything you need.

Tips & Warnings

• Thoroughly wash any utensils or trays after use in the chemicals.
• Make sure your darkroom is well ventilated. The chemicals are strong and many cause you to feel lightheaded.