Experimental Cyanotypes

Have you tried cyanotypes and want to play some more?    This workshop focusses on cyanotype experimentation and play so you can produce some really amazing watery and coloured effects in your prints.

In this workshop you will learn:

• Experimental techniques including wet-on-dry, wet-on-wet, bleaching and toning
• How to use kitchen supplies in cyanotypes including lemon juice, vinegar, spices and salt
• How to document and record your experiments

We’ll play with a variety of papers including book pages and paper patterns.

This will be a small group session to allow you to concentrate on your experiments as well as working together with others sharing the excitement of the cyanotype process.

Prior cyanotype experience is ideal to get the most from your experiments.

The workshop fee includes all materials and the preparation of some papers prior to the workshop.

You need to bring to the workshop:

• Objects to print with – flat or less dimensional for clear prints, things with interesting silhouettes. For example, leaves (pressed and semi-dried in a book for a few days), imperfect leaves, sprays of leaves and flowers/buds, feathers, lace, old keys, string, stencils. .Have a variety of large solid shapes (eg. cotton tree, eucalypt, banksia) and fine details (eg ferns, grasses). Solid shapes work better for our experimental techniques.
• 3 homemade Cyanotype Exposure Frames – made from old photo frames in charity shops. A4 up to A3 size – you need the glass and backing board (MDF, Foamcore, sturdy cardboard). Wrap the edges of the glass with adhesive tape (painters tape, cloth tape etc) to prevent accidents with the sharp edges. You’ll also need 4 large bulldog clips per frame. For ease of identification during the workshop, please write your name on your frames.
• Assorted papers to try – watercolour, kozo, rice paper. Must be robust enough to be washed and soaked.
• OPTIONAL – images on clear acetate like a photograph or drawing – you can get these printed at Officeworks, maximum A5 size. The best images are those with a strong contrast.
• Apron and nametag. You’ll be on your feet quite a bit so sandshoes are recommended.
• Notebook, pen and pencil, for documentation of your process.
• Your lunch and drinks. Tea and coffee are provided.