CYANOTYPE RESOURCE SHEET
A handy-dandy one page resource that gives you everything you need to get started making your own cyanotypes at home!
EXPLORE FURTHER
The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes, by Christopher James
http://tinyurl.com/alternativeprocesses
THE. BEST. BOOK. There is so much information on cyanotype here. I also recommend the School of YouTube (although I know that’s annoying to filter through), just to get a sense of how people are playing with it.
World Cyanotype Day
http://www.worldcyanotypeday.com/
World Cyanotype Day happening in 2018 on September 29th. You can join up on Facebook and meet other artists working in this fabulous medium.
Blueprints on Fabric
http://www.blueprintsonfabric.com/
Go here for all things readymade cyanotype. SO. MUCH. FUN. And it’s way less messy than doing it at home.
Photographer’s Formulary
http://stores.photoformulary.com/
These folks are a great resource (along with Freestyle Photographic Supplies) for alternative process chemicals. Their basic cyanotype kit comes in a dry chemical or pre-mixed liquid form (two solutions, A and B, that you mix 1:1 to create your light-sensitive surface).
THE BASIC PROCESS
The following assumes that the user has already prepared the two-part liquid chemical solution, available in kit form from Photographer's Formulary. You don't have to mix the chemicals yourself, of course. Prepared paper and fabric is available from Blueprints on Fabric as well.
All work must be done in subdued light and away from direct UV radiation. A shady garage, tucked-away bathroom, or other sheltered area works well.
Keep in mind that the liquid solution stains clothing very easily; if you wish to prepare fabric, do NOT put it in your washing machine or dryer.
1. Prepare the photosensitive solution according to the kit's instructions.
2. Apply the prepared solution to your medium of choice (paper & fabric made from natural fibers work best). For fabric, you may use a brush, or submerge it in the solution.
3. Allow solution to dry (a hair dryer can be used on low heat) in a dark place, away from UV light..
4. Arrange your materials or negative on the surface of the prepared paper (or medium of choice). You may wish to sandwich them between a board an a piece of glass or NON-UV-coated plexiglass.
5. Expose your paper for 10-20 minutes; the image should look silvery-green when completed exposure. Exposure will vary with time of day, season, and weather conditions.
6. Rinse until the water runs clear, either in a tray or under gentle running source.
7. Dry away from the sun by hanging on a clothesline or lying flat.
Overwhelmed? I'm oh-so happy to teach you in person.
Want to get inspired? You can watch the making of a giant cyanotype mural on the beach!
