Cyanotype Kit Instructions

Cyanotype Kit video instructions are coming soon! Please check back here soon.

In the meantime, here is a visual guide!

Only remove coated Cyanotype paper from the provided dark bag in the shade, or inside with windows covered. Place a piece of ~5"x7" cardboard on a flat surface, then place your coated paper face up on the cardboard. Coated paper can range in color from yellow to dark green

Next, create a composition using dried plants, feathers, found objects, or whatever you imagine up!

 

Now, place the plexiglass piece (provided with the kit) over your composition, taking care not to move any items as you place it down. I like to call this the "Cyanotype sandwich"

Optional step: secure your "Cyanotype sandwich" using bulldog clips or binder clips. don't cover any of your image with the clips, or it will come out in the final print! If you would like to add any 3D items, you can place them over the plexiglass.

Now, take your image outside and expose it to the sun! Watch as your print turns greenish blue and gets darker, then turns brownish green, and eventually starts to get lighter. Once it starts to get lighter, it's time to bring it inside. On a bright day when the sun is high in the sky, this will take only ~5 minutes, while on a cloudy day it could take up to 20 minutes.

When you are back inside with the windows covered, or in the shade carefully remove your composition items.

Now, admire your print up close pre-wash, because it won't ever look like this again!

Fill a tray (not for use with food) or stopped sink with water (tap or filtered is fine!) and submerge your print in the water, tilting the tray or agitating the water to help wash away any unexposed Cyanotype chemistry. 

Optional step: To speed up the development of your print, you can add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to your water, and watch as your print rapidly turns darker blue!

After your print has been washing for 5-10 minutes, remove it using gloves or tongs and admire your beautiful photogram! You can lay your print flat to dry on a window screen, or some paper towels. Your image is now set and can be exposed to light again (though don't let it sit in the bright sun for hours... it will get bleached out just like any other image).

Please show me what you make with your kit! I want to see what you've created. Tag me on Instagram @mintzmakes, or email me at info@mintzmakes.com. Share your feedback on my kit with me via email; I'd love to hear how I can make it better!