We all know that in modern day Britain it can be difficult to accommodate a darkroom at home and even in education establishments there might not be the will or expertise to set up a darkroom from scratch. But that's no reason not to explore the fascinating world of analogue in a contemporary way.
Printing-out paper or Sunprints are based on the old process of cyanotype printing. Distinctive for producing Prussian blue monochromatic prints, Cyanotype photographs are made by placing objects such as leaves, shells, flowers or textured patterns onto the surface and exposing for a few minutes in sunlight onto a sheet of our paper.The paper is then rinsed with water for 30 seconds to reveal the print.
The result is an image formed by light and objects. The objects block light from the paper, creating white shapes. Areas not blocked - exposed to light completely - are blue/cyan. We thoroughly recommend this process for art and nature projects within schools.Developed in the mid-19th century, cyanotype was quickly embraced as an inexpensive method for reproducing photographs, documents, maps and plans (hence the enduring architectural term - blueprint).
Until now, pre-treated versions of this wonderful process, which requires no further chemical treatment or darkroom or photographic equipment, have only been available on paper. With Jacquard's new Pretreated Fabric Sheets cyanotype printing is available on 100 cotton sateen too.
Simply expose the fabric to sunlight or UV (3-15 minutes, depending on conditions), placing the objects or a film negative (Jaquard or PermaJet) on top to create an image. After exposure, wash in cool water and allow to air dry.
This item is available for collection.