the process

How a cyanotype
is made.

The prints in this project were made by hand using the cyanotype process — one of the oldest photographic printing methods, developed in 1842. No darkroom required. Just chemistry, paper, and light.

step 01

The paper is coated.

Watercolour paper, 300gsm. A solution of ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide is brushed onto the surface in low light. The paper turns yellow-green. It needs to dry completely before use.

step 02

The negative is placed face-down.

The contact sheet sits directly on the coated paper. Glass holds everything flat.

step 03

Exposing to Light

The prints are then exposed to UV light and develop until the chemicals turn a dark, muddy green.

step 04

Rinse and Let Dry

Wash the chemicals away under cold water and let the prints fully dry, make sure that your prints are fully developed otherwise they will wash away like this.

what you need

Materials.

Ferric ammonium citrate Part A of the sensitiser — mixed with potassium ferricyanide in equal parts
Potassium ferricyanide Part B — when combined with Part A, produces the light-sensitive coating
Watercolour paper, 300gsm Cold press. Heavier paper holds the chemistry better and warps less when wet
UV lamp or direct sunlight 12–15 minutes under a UV lamp. Direct sun is faster but less consistent
Glass sheet Holds the negative flat against the coated paper during exposure
A negative or transparency In this project: 35mm contact sheets placed face-down on the paper

see the prints themselves

go to the gallery