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Use the power of the sun to capture the beauty of nature with this step-by-step guide to cyanotype printing. Cyanotype printing is a simple photographic process that uses the sun's rays to create a chemical reaction, allowing you to easily capture stunning prints, using everything from ferns and feathers to lace and leaves. This accessible art form is the perfect way to blend time in nature with creativity. A few inexpensive supplies and a sunny day are all you need to start creating. Author Madge Evers has been teaching the cyanotype technique for years, while also developing her own thriving creative practice, making her the perfect guide and teacher.
In
Printing with the Sun, you'll learn the basics of the cyanotype process with step-by-step photographs and clear instructions. Once you've mastered the fundamentals, explore experimental techniques using everything from soap bubbles to washing soda to create inventive new takes on cyanotype printing. Over a dozen projects will build your printmaking skills and introduce you to new aspects of the art. The book also features stunning works of art from cyanotype artists across the country to spark your creative imagination.
List of contents
Introduction: The Magical Art of Cyanotypes
Light as Art
A Visual History of Cyanotypes
Making It Your Own
Part 1: Tools and Techniques
A Beginner's Guide to Making a Cyanotype
1 The Chemistry Cyanotype Chemicals
Creating a Prep Station
Mixing Solutions
2 The Paper Choosing Paper
Preparing the Paper
Applying the Working Solution
3 Exposure Light Sources
Preparing to Print
Playing with Exposure and Dimensions
4 Fixing the Image Fixing a Cyanotype
Washing the Print
Display and Storage
Part 2: Step-by-Step Projects
5 Simple Cyanotypes: Step-by-Step for Beginners Working with Botanicals
Botanical Cyanotype
Cyanotype Photograms
Project: Photogram with Glass Objects
Project: Photogram Landscape with Torn Paper
Printing from Negatives
Project: Contact Print with a Film Negative
6 Experimentation: Beyond the Basics Playing with pH
Project: Wet Cyanotypes with Vinegar, Spices, and Soap Bubbles
Altering Finished Cyanotypes
Project: Create a "Yellow" Cyanotype with Washing Soda
Project: Toning a Cyanotype with Botanicals
7 Finishing Techniques Mounting and Sealing a Cyanotype
Project: Mounting a Cyanotype to a Cradled Board
Project: Applying a Wax Finish
Project: Bespoke Greeting Cards and Cyanotype Collage
Project; Embellish a Cyanotype with Paint
8 Cyanotypes on Fabric Printing on Fabric
Project: Cyanotype Stencil Prints on Fabric
Scouring Fabric
Project: A Cyanotype Wall Hanging
Project: Shirt with Botanical Embellishments
Project: Cyanotype Tote Bag
More about the Artists
Resources
For Further Reading
Bibliography
Art Credits
Acknowledgements
Index
About the author
Madge Evers is a cyanotype artist who uses foraged materials to explore decomposition and regeneration. Her work has been published in
Antennae: The Journal of Nature in Visual Culture and acquired by private and institutional collectors. Artist residencies in New England, Virginia, and Ireland have allowed Evers to interact with landscapes and their histories. Madge lives and works in western Massachusetts where she was a public school teacher for 25 years. She now facilitates cyanotype workshops for people of all ages.
