Cyanotype printing is one of the oldest known photographic techniques. Now, printing cyanotypes is easier and more accessible than ever. Let me show you how to make your own cyanotype prints the easy way.
This "sun printing" process is nearly 200 years old, with the original formula developed by John Herschel in 1842. Cyanotype printing (and other historical printing processes) has witnessed an enormous resurgence in recent years, and with good reason. Making a cyanotype print requires very little in terms of equipment or specialized chemicals. What's more, cyanotype prints are exposed using ultraviolet (UV) light. This means if you have access to the sun, chances are you will be able to print a cyanotype any time of the year.
The original cyanotype process, at a bare minimum, requires only two chemicals: potassium ferricyanide and ferric ammonium citrate. Both are readily available online. Throw in some suitable paper, and you'll be making your own cyanotypes in no time.
Come with me as I make a cyanotype print from beginning to end. I'll show you how to mix your chemicals, expose and develop your prints, and discuss a few of the more nuanced aspects that make cyanotype printing one of the most enjoyable (and easy) historical printing processes in use today.
Awesome course and very educational. Thanks!