How to Use Cyanotype Paper

Are you interested in photography but need help figuring out where to start? It can be overwhelming with all the different types of cameras, lenses, and editing software available. But one simple and fun technique to try is cyanotype printing.

With its rich Prussian blue hues, Cyanotype paper is a wondrous way to create beautiful prints using only sunlight and water. This photographic printing process, dating back to the 1840s, offers artists and hobbyists a unique means to capture the silhouette of objects, create photograms, or reproduce photographs.

In this blog on how to use cyanotype paper, we’ll explore the simplicity and magic of cyanotype paper – outlining the materials needed, the steps for creating your designs, and tips for achieving the best results. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, prepare to be enamored by the alchemy of cyanotype printing.

What are the Uses of Cyanotype Paper?

Cyanotype paper has been historically used for creating blueprints, architectural drawings, and maps. However, cyanotype printing has also found its way into art and photography. Its unique deep blue tones offer a vintage aesthetic that is highly sought after in various forms of art.

Artists and photographers have used cyanotype paper to create beautiful prints of objects, landscapes, and portraits. It’s a versatile medium that allows for experimentation and creativity, making it perfect for those who want to explore different forms of expression.

What Will You Need?

Before we dive into the steps for using cyanotype paper, let’s first gather all the necessary materials. You will need:

• Cyanotype Paper: This can be purchased online or at your local art supply store. You can choose from different sizes and quantities depending on your needs.
• Acetate Sheets: These transparent plastic sheets are used to transfer images onto the cyanotype paper.
• Objects for Printing: This can be anything you want to create a print of, such as leaves, flowers, feathers, or even small things like keys or jewelry.
• Glass or a Heavy Book: This will keep the objects flat and in place during printing.
• Water: You’ll need water to mix with the cyanotype paper chemicals and rinse afterward.
• A tray or Tub: This will be used to hold the water for rinsing.
• Sponges, Brushes, or Foam Rollers: These tools will help evenly distribute the chemicals onto the paper.
• A Flat Surface: This can be a table or a board to place your cyanotype paper on during printing.
• Sunlight: Cyanotype paper is sensitive to UV light, so you’ll need a sunny day for printing.

Now that we have all the materials let’s move on to the steps for creating your cyanotype prints.

10 Easy Steps on How to Use Cyanotype Paper

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Choose a dimly lit area away from direct sunlight to lay out your materials. Since cyanotype paper is light-sensitive, exposure to UV rays, before you’re ready can activate the chemicals prematurely. Clear a flat surface to work on and organize your materials for easy access. This will help maintain the paper’s reactivity until you can expose it to sunlight for printing.

Step 2: Arrange Your Objects on the Paper

Once your workspace is prepared, lay a sheet of cyanotype paper carefully on your flat surface. Begin placing your objects or acetate sheet with the printed image on the cyanotype paper. You may arrange these items in any composition you like—one of the joys of cyanotype printing is its allowance for creativity.

The parts of the paper covered by the objects will remain white, while the exposed areas will develop the characteristic blue color. Make sure that your things are flat and secure so that the borders of their silhouettes will be sharp and clear. Use a piece of glass or a heavy book to press them down evenly, avoiding any movement during exposure.

Step 3: Expose to Sunlight

With your composition in place, it’s time to expose the cyanotype paper to sunlight. Carefully transfer your setup to a location where it will receive direct UV light. The exposure time can vary depending on the intensity of the sun and the season, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes.

Monitor the paper as exposed; you’ll notice the color changing from yellow to green and then to gray. This is an indication that the cyanotype is developing. However, be cautious to avoid overexposing the paper, as this can result in a less defined print.

Step 4: Rinse Your Print

After the necessary period of exposure to sunlight, immediately remove the objects or acetate sheet from the cyanotype paper. Quickly take the print to your prepared tray or tub of water. Gently rinse the piece under the water to wash away the unexposed chemicals.

You will see the magic happen as the areas exposed to the light start turning the signature Prussian blue, and the covered areas remain white or a light blue. Continue rinsing the paper until the water runs clear, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This step is pivotal in stopping the development process and setting the image in the paper.

Step 5: Dry Your Cyanotype Print

After rinsing the cyanotype print thoroughly, lay it on a flat, absorbent surface to dry. Some artists prefer to hang their prints to allow for even drying on both sides. Avoid direct sunlight during this stage; the print is still sensitive until completely dry.

Depending on the humidity and temperature of your workspace, this could take several hours. As the track dries, the final image becomes even more pronounced, with the blue tones deepening and the whites crisper. Once the print is thoroughly dried, it is ready for the next stage or displayed as finished artwork.

Step 6: Flatten Your Print

If your cyanotype print has curled or warped during the drying process, it’s essential to flatten it to ensure a professional appearance. After the print is completely dry, place it between two sheets of clean, acid-free paper, and then put it within a heavy book or underneath a weight.

Leave the print pressed like this for a day or two. This pressure will help smooth out any wrinkles or curves, resulting in a flat shot that is suitable for framing or further art processes.

Step 7: Enhancing the Print

Once your cyanotype print is flat and ready, you can enhance it further. This could involve increasing contrast or adding color to specific areas with watercolors or pastels. Start by lightly applying your chosen medium to the print, gradually building up layers until the desired effect is achieved.

Remember to work carefully—too much pressure can damage the delicate fibers of the cyanotype paper. This step is entirely optional and based on personal preference; some artists leave the stark blue and white contrast as is for a more traditional cyanotype look.

Step 8: Sealing the Cyanotype

Sealing is a recommended step to preserve your cyanotype print and protect it from fading. Start by allowing the image to acclimate to room temperature after it has been flattened completely. Use a spray fixative, a UV-resistant clear coat, or an archival varnish designed explicitly for paper artwork.

Apply it in a well-ventilated area, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. Spray a light coat evenly across the print’s surface, allowing it to dry thoroughly before adding a second layer if necessary. This will add a layer of protection against environmental factors such as light and moisture.

Step 9: Mounting Your Print

To display your cyanotype, mounting it on a sturdy backing will provide support and enhance its visual appeal. Choose an acid-free backing board or a pre-cut mat that fits the size of your print. Carefully apply a thin layer of archival or pH-neutral adhesive to the back of the cyanotype, ensuring an even coverage.

Align the print with your mounting board and press it down smoothly, eliminating any air bubbles. Allow it to dry flat under a weight to prevent any curling. Mounting your print gives it a polished look and prevents damage when handling or framing.

Step 10: Framing Your Cyanotype

Finally, to truly showcase your cyanotype print, consider framing it behind glass with a complementary frame that enhances its aesthetic. When choosing a frame, consider the color and style of the pattern, as well as where it will be displayed.

Use acid-free matting to keep the glass from directly touching the print, which could cause damage over time. Once your print is framed, it is ready to be hung on the wall and admired. Make sure to hang your framed cyanotype out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and preserve the vibrant blue hues for years.

By following these steps, you can easily create a beautiful cyanotype print. Experiment with different objects and compositions to add your unique touch to this classic photographic process.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Test Different Fabrics: While cyanotype paper is standard, you can apply chemicals to various fabrics. Experiment with cotton, silk, and linen to see how different textures affect the final image.
2. Layer Objects: Create depth in your cyanotypes by layering translucent materials over your main subject. This can give a dimensional effect to your prints, offering a unique take on traditional cyanotype imagery.
3. Sunlight Timing: The amount of UV light affects the development time of your print. Try creating prints at different times of the day to see how the position and intensity of the sun change the outcome.
4. Rinsing Variations: After exposing your cyanotype, the rinsing process can also affect your image. Use various water temperatures and rinsing durations to alter the contrast and depth of blue in your prints.
5. Toning and Staining: Once you’ve developed your cyanotype, consider toning or staining it with tea, coffee, or wine to add warm tones or change the hue of the blue. This can produce a vintage or aged look, personalizing your artwork further.

With these additional tips and tricks, you can enhance your cyanotype prints and create unique and personalized art pieces.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Overexposure to Sunlight: Avoid leaving your cyanotype paper in the sun for too long, as this can lead to overexposure, making the image indistinct and overly dark.
2. Insufficient Rinsing: Inadequate rinsing can leave chemicals on the paper, which may continue to react over time, altering the appearance of your print. Always ensure a thorough rinse to fix the image.
3. Using Non-Acid-Free Materials: Beware of using not acid-free materials, as they can deteriorate the quality of your prints, causing discoloration and reducing the lifespan of your artwork.
4. Touching Chemically Treated Surfaces: Avoid touching the chemically treated areas as oils and residue from your hands can affect the chemical reaction and result in an uneven cyanotype.
5. Neglecting to Test First: Make test prints, as they help gauge exposure times and the effect of different materials on the print outcome. Only starting a full-scale project with testing can lead to wasted materials and disappointment.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure the best results for your cyanotype prints and extend the lifespan of your artwork.

Which Side of Cyanotype Paper Do You Use?

One common question when using cyanotype paper is which side to use for printing. The cyanotype process involves coating the piece with a light-sensitive emulsion, and both sides of the paper may look similar after application. However, it is essential to know which side is the correct one to ensure the best results.

The general rule of thumb is that the smooth side of the paper is the one to use for printing. This site has a slightly shiny surface, while the other may have a matte appearance. The smooth side allows for better absorption and distribution of the chemicals, resulting in a more even and defined print.

If you’re unsure which side is smooth, try running your fingers lightly over each side to feel for a difference in texture. Alternatively, you can also use a droplet of water on each side and observe which one absorbs the water more quickly. The faster absorption usually indicates the smoother side.

In some cases, both sides may look similar, or you may have accidentally coated the wrong side with the emulsion. If this happens, testing each side before making a final print is best. This will help determine which side produces the best results and avoid wasting materials.

Remember to always use the smooth side of cyanotype paper for printing to achieve optimal results.  Overall, it is essential to experiment and have fun with cyanotype photography while also being mindful of these tips and tricks for the best outcome possible.

Can You Expose Cyanotype Without Sun?

Yes, it is possible to expose cyanotypes without direct sunlight. While sunlight is the most common and traditional method for exposing cyanotypes, some alternatives can also produce beautiful results.

One option is UV light bulbs or lamps designed explicitly for cyanotype printing. These bulbs emit a similar spectrum of light as sunlight and can be used indoors, making it easier to control the exposure time and conditions.

Another option is using a contact printing frame with a UV light source. This allows for precise and even exposure of the cyanotype paper, eliminating any shadows or unevenness that may occur with natural sunlight.

Additionally, if you live in an area where sunlight is scarce or unpredictable, you can also use artificial light sources such as halogen lamps or fluorescent bulbs. These may not have the same light spectrum as sunlight, so it is essential to test and adjust your exposure times accordingly.

Overall, while sunlight is the traditional method for exposing cyanotype paper, some alternatives can produce equally impressive results.

Is Cyanotype Washable?

Yes, cyanotype prints can be washed, but it is essential to do so carefully to avoid damaging the print. The washing process helps remove any residual chemicals on the paper, preventing further reaction and preserving the image.

To wash a cyanotype print, start by rinsing it under running water for several minutes. Use your fingers to gently rub the surface of the print to help remove any chemicals. Then, soak the print in a clean water bath for 5-10 minutes.

After soaking, gently agitate the print in the water to loosen any remaining chemicals. You can also use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide or citric acid solution to help neutralize and speed up the washing process.

Finally, rinse the print under running water and blot it dry with a clean towel. Be careful not to rub too hard or use harsh chemicals, which can damage the print.

Once washed, hang the print to air dry or lay it flat on a towel. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources while drying, which can also cause damage. With proper washing and care, your cyanotype prints can last many years. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, how to use cyanotype paper requires attention to detail and an appreciation for the nuances of the process. From selecting the proper side of the paper to careful exposure and post-process washing, each step contributes to the final aesthetic quality of the print.

By avoiding common pitfalls, such as overexposure or insufficient rinsing, artists can produce prints with crisp shapes and the characteristic deep blue hues for which cyanotypes are known. Whether working under the sun or using UV lamps, the joy of cyanotype lies in the experimentation and the unique results that can be achieved with simple materials and a bit of practice.

Properly washed and cared for, cyanotype prints stand as an enduring testament to the photographer’s skill and the timeless appeal of this photographic method.