Rolling Film Using Hewes Steel Reels The metal reel has been used to develop film for decades. Recently, the old "clip" metal reels have been improved by the addition of a metal plate containing two prongs that fit nicely into the film's sprocket holes. This helps hold the film in place during rolling, while keeping it straight. The entire process takes place in complete darkness so practice these skills in the light until you feel comfortable. Removing the film from the canister There are two ways to do this; one is partly in the light, and one is in complete darkness. In The Light: This just makes getting the film on the reel easier since you can start it in the light. 1.) If you have access to a leader extracting tool, use it to pull out the leader. In The Dark: (You will eventually have to do this anyway to remove the film from the canister.) 2.) Cut the skinny leader off but leave enough film to get it started on the reel. Get the film started on the reel and then go into the dark or use a changing bag. 1.) Start by using a can opener to pop the top off of the canister. 2.) Once the top is popped, bend it until it comes off. Careful, the edges are sharp! 3.) Push on the spool end until you have removed the film from the canister. Try not to touch the film other than on the edges. Don't let the film unwind. Rolling the Film onto the Reel 1.) Start by holding the reel in your non-dominant hand sideways, like a sandwich. Make sure the metal plate that says "Hewes" is facing your other hand, and that the prongs are facing toward you. 2.) If you put your thumb on the cross-bar behind the plate, then you can use it to guide the film into the slot in the dark. 3.) Hold the film in your dominant hand by cradling it in your palm while touching only the sides of the film. Slightly bend the film to get it between the metal spirals. Don't squeeze too hard because bending the film can ruin it. 4.) Drag the film down your thumb until it finds the slot in the reel. Insert the film end into the slot until it touches your finger on the other side. "The Katie Method" 5.) Turn the reel (not the film) away from you. This will cause the prongs to catch the sprocket holes. Keep your hand close to the reel. 6.) Keep rolling the film on. Every couple of revolutions, test the film by moving it back and forth; if it moves freely, you are doing fine. If it doesn't move, then unwind it until it moves freely and continue on. 7.) If you haven't already, remove the film from the canister (see above). The film is taped to the reel, you will need to cut it off before you can put it into the developing tank. 8.) Place the reel into the developing tank. Place the light-safe top securely onto the tank. Put the cap on the top. You are now ready to Develop your negatives. If all goes wrong in the dark, put the film into the canister without the reel, put the top on it, and have us check it. Things to remember: Make sure you have everything before going into the dark. Check your film often and have me or a lab tech check it before you start developing it.. Don't touch the film.

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