UV Light Box Set up Secrets - Small Bin
Having a small tabletop indoor UV light box is a game-changer.
In Ohio, I have spent a lot of time seeking the right light to create cyanotypes, which can be a part-time job in itself. You can easily make a UV light box using a cardboard box, but I wanted something more durable.
Find Large Bin Directions here
Here’s a brief description of what I built and what works for me!
Here is a list of supplies I used:
Ikea Small Bin UPPSNOFSAD
Sharpie
box cutter or sharp Xacto knife
Cutting mat
Pick your UV lights:
You can choose from a few different wattages, but I typically use 50W or 100W. It’s important to keep the wattage the same on both sides when exposing a large print. For a 50W exposure, traditional cyanotypes in an 8x10 size can take anywhere from 4 to 11 minutes in this bin.
When you are looking for a box or storage bin to use, it needs to be a solid color, NOT clear. You want to avoid light leaks to avoid light loss while exposing your cyanotypes. The small Ikea has an easy lid that just lays on top and can hold a frame up to 8x10.
I used this size a lot for the 4th year of my cyanotype postcard series!
Measuring:
I cut for the size of the white space within my UV light. This way I would reduce light loss.
Pro Tip: Make sure your UV light has a on/off switch on the cord. Your outlets will thank me!
Cutting your lid:
I measured a rectangle that is 1 inch smaller than my UV lights, marking it on the inside center of each side of the lid. Next, I used a blade to carefully cut along the marked lines on a self-healing cutting mat. Note: It is safer and more effective to make several lighter cuts rather than applying too much pressure for one deep cut.
Frames:
You can fit a 8x10 frame in this bin just right. You can also lay cyanotype papers and objects in your box with no frame.
Pro Tip: Glass or plexiglass helps keep your items flat and reduce shadows.
go experiment!
Now it is time to experiment and see what settings and times work for you! This is the best part!
Storage: My favorite aspect of this setup is that I can easily break it down and stack it for storage. The system is lightweight, and the lid conveniently folds in half. I can wrap the lights tightly and store them in the bin, then stack my rinse bin on top.
Hope that helps!
xo Kellie
Here is a list of supplies I used:
Ikea Small Bin UPPSNOFSAD
