Cyanotype - starter kit

Cyanotype Kit 2 × 50 ml – Light-Sensitive Solutions

The Cyanotype Kit from Alternative Photographic Supplies contains two solutions for making prints using one of the earliest photographic processes based on the light sensitivity of iron compounds. It is suitable both for beginners learning cyanotype and for photographers who already use this process in their artistic practice.

Cyanotype produces images with a characteristic blue colour. It does not require a traditional photographic darkroom or enlarger. Exposure takes place using ultraviolet (UV) light, either from sunlight or a suitable UV exposure unit.

The kit contains 2 × 50 ml of solution, which can be combined to prepare 100 ml of light-sensitive mixture. This quantity is sufficient for approximately 40–60 A4 prints, depending on the absorbency of the paper, the area coated and the application method.

What Does the Kit Include?

• Solution A – 50 ml

• Solution B – 50 ml

• Instructions – information on preparing the substrate, applying the sensitiser, exposure and washing the prints.

Freshly Prepared Solutions

We prepare our cyanotype solutions on the day your order is processed. This means you receive freshly prepared solutions, ready to be mixed and used for printing.

To prepare the sensitiser, combine equal volumes of Solutions A and B. We recommend mixing only the quantity needed for the current printing session.

Solutions A and B should be stored separately in tightly closed containers, protected from light and high temperatures.

We recommend using the solutions within one month of delivery.

Applications in Cyanotype Printing

The kit can be used to create photographic prints from analogue and digital negatives, as well as photograms made by placing objects directly onto the light-sensitive surface.

The sensitiser can be applied to appropriately prepared materials, including:

• Watercolour and printmaking papers – the most commonly used supports for cyanotype printing.

• Natural fibre fabrics – including cotton, following appropriate preparation.

• Wood – absorbent surfaces that have been suitably prepared to receive the sensitiser.

• Other substrates – after checking their absorbency, composition and compatibility with the process.

The final appearance of the print depends on the substrate, coating method, exposure time and washing procedure.

Basic Printing Procedure

1. Prepare the chosen substrate, ensuring that its surface is clean and dry.

2. Mix equal volumes of Solutions A and B, preparing only the quantity required for your prints.

3. Apply the mixture using a brush, sponge or glass coating rod.

4. Allow the coated surface to dry completely, protecting it from UV exposure.

5. Expose the coated material through a photographic negative or with objects placed directly on its surface.

6. Wash the print in water according to the instructions supplied with the kit, then allow it to dry.

Preparation and drying of sensitised materials should take place under lighting conditions that minimise accidental exposure.

Accessories for Cyanotype Printing

• Pictorico Ultra Premium OHP Film – transparent inkjet film designed for preparing digital negatives for contact printing.

• Canson Student Paper – an art paper that we also use in our darkroom for learning cyanotype and producing prints.

• Puddle Pusher – a glass coating rod that helps distribute the sensitiser evenly across the paper surface.

• Foam Brushes – tools for manually applying sensitiser to paper and other appropriately prepared surfaces.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Alternative Photographic Supplies (Szlachetna Fotografia)

• Process: Cyanotype

• Contents: Solution A – 50 ml, Solution B – 50 ml

• Total volume: 100 ml

• Mixing ratio: 1:1

• Approximate yield: 40–60 A4 prints

• Recommended use: Within one month of delivery

• Applications: Cyanotype printing from photographic negatives and photograms

• Included: Two solutions and instructions