Suitable Papers & Fabrics

Material Characteristics
Paper Heavyweight, natural fiber papers (cotton rag, watercolour paper) work best.
Fabric Natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, and canvas absorb the chemistry well.

The Cyanotype Process

Step # Action Notes
1 Make your cyanotype solution. Prepare the cyanotype sensitizer according to the instructions provided with your kit or chemicals.
2 Coat your paper or fabric. Apply a thin, even coat with a brush or coating rod.
3 Let it dry completely. Dry in a dark place. A hairdryer can speed this up.
4 Create your composition. Arrange objects (plants, lace, etc.) or a negative on the surface.
5 Expose to UV light. Place in direct sunlight. Exposure times vary (5-30 mins).
6 Rinse in water. Wash the print in a tray of cool water for 5-10 minutes.
7 Dry your print. Hang to dry. The blue colour will deepen as it oxidizes.

Exposure Guide

Exposure Level Appearance During Exposure Result
Under-exposed Pale blue or yellow-green. Washed-out, light blue print.
Correctly exposed Turns to a bronze or grey-blue colour. Deep Prussian blue with clear highlights.
Over-exposed Dark grey or slate blue. Dark blue print with loss of detail in highlights.

Toning Cyanotypes

Toning Agent Colour Result Process
Black Tea Brown/Sepia Steep print in strong black tea after rinsing.
Washing Soda Yellow-brown Briefly dip in a weak washing soda solution.
Tannic Acid Purple/Black Bathe print in a tannic acid solution.

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Print is entirely blue Paper was exposed to light before use. Ensure paper is coated and dried in a dark room.
Weak or pale print Under-exposure, weak chemistry. Increase exposure time, mix fresh chemistry.
Blue stain in highlights Not rinsed long enough. Rinse for a longer period, changing the water a few times.