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Introduction
Turn sunlight into art with the dreamy, deep-blue magic of cyanotype. In this playful, beginner-friendly class, you’ll make striking “blueprints” of botanicals, lace, and found objects using a light-sensitive solution and water—no darkroom required. We’ll guide you step by step so you leave with a gallery of indigo treasures and the know‑how to keep creating at home.
Class Description
- What to Expect:
- Learn the basics of this 19th‑century process and how it became the original “blueprint.”
- Mix and handle light-sensitive solution safely, then coat paper and fabric evenly.
- Compose photograms with leaves, flowers, lace, and everyday objects for crisp, whimsical silhouettes.
- Expose in sunlight (or UV light), rinse, and watch your images bloom from pale green to Prussian blue.
- Options to experiment with simple toning (tea or coffee) and creative masking for unique effects.
- Who It’s For:
- Absolute beginners—no photo or printmaking experience needed.
- Nature lovers, scrapbookers, DIY gift-makers, and anyone curious about alternative photography.
- What You’ll Learn:
- Cyanotype basics: chemistry overview, coating, drying, exposure, rinsing, and oxidation
- Composition tips for bold silhouettes and delicate details
- How to use found objects and digital negatives
- Simple toning methods and troubleshooting (over/underexposure, streaks, contrast)
- Best practices for safe handling and archival results
- What’s Included (All Materials Provided):
- Pre-mixed cyanotype solution, brushes, and coating boards
- High-quality cotton papers, small fabric swatches, or a mini tote, bandana or tea towel
- Botanicals, lace, stencils, and acetate for basic negatives
- Trays, water rinse, gloves, aprons, and drying space
- What to Bring (Optional):
- Flat, lightweight objects with interesting shapes (ferns, feathers, keys, lace)
- Any high-contrast images you’d like to use as negatives (printed on transparency)
- Good to Know:
- Duration: 2–3 hours; small class size for plenty of hands-on help
- We’ll use sunlight when possible and have UV lamps as backup
- Wear craft-friendly clothing; gloves are provided
- Suitable for adults and teens (under 16 with a guardian)
You’ll leave with multiple cyanotype prints on paper, at least one on fabric, and the confidence to keep chasing that captivating blue glow.