Backing paper winding tool for 35mm film in medium format cameras

• 35mm film in a medium-format camera: Expose 35mm film in your 6×4.5, 6×6, 6×7, or 6×9 camera across the full height of the image window, including the perforations for the characteristic sprocket-hole look.
• Original backing paper for correct frame counting: The tool winds your 35mm film into the backing paper from an empty 120 roll, so your camera’s red window counts frames correctly—no more estimating frame spacing.
• Prepare in daylight, wind in the dark: Align the film and backing paper in daylight; only the final winding takes place in a changing bag or darkroom.
• No special accessories required: Works with standard empty 120 reels and used 120 backing paper you already have on hand.

Design & concept

Based on a design by Simon (Simonp1080), published on Printables. We manufacture this tool with the designer’s express written permission, so you can use it even without your own printer. Thank you, Simon!

Compatibility

• All medium-format/120 roll-film cameras: 6×4.5, 6×6, 6×7, and 6×9
• 35mm film (cartridge); 24 exposures are recommended, while 36-exposure films may be too long
• Also required (not included): used 120 backing paper, empty 120 reels, a changing bag or darkroom, and non-permanent adhesive tape (e.g. Scotch tape)

Scope of delivery

• 1× backing-paper winding tool, 2 pieces: main body and closure clip
• Matte black, ready to use

Technical details

• Material: technical plastic, matte black
• Main body dimensions: approx. 148 × 72 × 30 mm
• Closure clip dimensions: approx. 82 × 25 × 15 mm
• Function: Transfers 120 backing paper onto 35mm film, making it usable in medium-format (120) cameras, including functioning frame counting
• Made in Würzburg, Germany

Description

With this tool, you wind your 35mm film into the original backing paper from an empty 120 roll. The finished film then loads into any medium-format camera like a normal 120 roll of film, and because the backing paper advances with it, the frame counter works normally. Align everything in daylight; only the final winding is done in the changing bag.

The result: 35mm film in a medium-format camera, exposed across the full height of the image window, with the characteristic perforation look and correct frame counting.

Frequently asked questions

• Why not simply put 35mm film in the 120 camera? Without backing paper, the frame counter does not advance, and you have to estimate the frame spacing. This tool restores correct counting.
• What film length fits? 24 exposures are ideal. 36-exposure films may be too long.
• Will I get the sprocket-hole look? Yes. The 35mm film is exposed across the full height of the 120 window, including the perforation holes.
• What else do I need? Used 120 backing paper, empty 120 reels, a changing bag or darkroom, and non-permanent adhesive tape.