Cyanotypes with pre-coated paper
How to make Cyanotypes with pre-coated papers:
What You Need:
Pre-treated cyanotype (or sunprint) paper
Flat objects (leaves, pressed flowers, feathers, stencils, or lace)
A piece of cardboard and a clear acrylic sheet (to hold items flat)
A shallow tray or basin filled with plain water
the Sun (preferably sunny day from 10am-3pm)
a space with no light or indirect light
Step-by-Step Instructions
Set up indoors: Work away from direct sunlight or bright windows so your paper does not accidentally expose early.
Arrange your design: Lay your cyanotype paper greenish side up on top of your cardboard. Place your objects flat onto the greenish paper.
Secure the layout: Place the clear acrylic sheet directly over the objects to press them firmly against the paper. Now you have 3 layers secured.
Expose to the sun: Take the clamped or flat board outside into direct sunlight. Let it sit for 1 to 5 minutes. (late in the day or cloudy days will need more minutes of exposure) Watch for the paper to turn a pale greenish-blue or bronze shade.
Take the clamped or flat board outside into direct sunlight. Let it sit for 1 to 5 minutes. (late in the day or cloudy days will need more minutes of exposure) Watch for the paper to turn a pale greenish-blue or bronze shade.
Rinse in water: Bring the paper back inside immediately. Submerge it completely in your water tray for 1 minute. Move and agitate your paper. The unexposed background will wash away to a bright white, and the design will turn deep blue. Make sure to rinse all of the yellow green color away.
Dry the print: Lay your wet print flat on a towel or paper towel. Let it dry completely for a few hours. Place a heavy book on it once dry to keep it from curling.
Have fun!
