What is Cyanotype?
Cyanotype—also known as a “sun print”—is a simple, old-school photographic process that uses sunlight to create beautiful, deep blue images. A piece of paper treated with a light-sensitive solution captures the silhouette of objects placed on it when exposed to UV light. The areas blocked from the sun remain white, while the rest turns a rich Prussian blue.
Supplies You'll Need:
- A sun paper kit (usually includes pre-treated paper and a clear acrylic sheet)
- Glass from a picture frame (optional but helps press objects flat for sharper detail)
- Leaves or botanicals (look for flat items like ferns for best results)
- A hard surface like a large hardcover book to support your paper
- A sunny spot outdoors
- Around 11 minutes of your time
Step 1: Prep Your Materials
I used a ready-made sun paper kit, but if you're curious: sun paper is traditionally made by coating paper with a solution of iron salts. The kit makes things easier and less messy, especially for beginners.
Step 2: Go on a Botanical Hunt
Look around your yard or neighborhood for leaves, ferns, or flowers. Ferns are especially great—they're naturally flat and work well for this project. Try to choose specimens that will press easily under glass or acrylic.
Step 3: Arrange Your Design
Place a sheet of sun paper on top of a hard surface like a large coffee table book. Arrange your leaves or objects on the paper, then cover everything with the acrylic sheet (or glass) to keep them flat and in place. This ensures crisper, more detailed prints.
Step 4: Expose to Sunlight
Carry your setup to a sunny spot—avoid any shaded areas. Set a timer for 5–15 minutes depending on how strong the sunlight is. I usually go with 11 minutes, which gives a nice contrast.
Step 5: Rinse and Reveal
When time’s up, bring your project inside and rinse the paper under running water for about a minute to stop the exposure. You’ll immediately see the blue tones deepen. Lay the paper flat on a dish towel or drying rack and allow it to air dry.
Final Result
Once dry, you’ll have a beautiful blue-and-white print—your very own cyanotype artwork, with the silhouettes of your chosen objects preserved in light.
