Cyanotype & Van Dyke Brown

Cyanotype printing and Van Dyke Brown printing are both contact printing processes, where a negative or an object is placed onto photosensitised paper or fabric, and exposed to the sun or a UV light. Photosensitive emulsion is brushed onto the paper by hand, making each print unique. This camera-less, iron-based technique was invented by John Herschel in 1842.

Cyanotype produces a Prussian cyan-blue print. Van Dyke Brown produces a deep brown print, similar to the popular paint pigment, Van Dyke Brown.

What you will need

• Participants must email up to 4 digital images of your choice to Conor at [email protected].
• Images should have a resolution of 300dpi, a size of 5×7’’ (2000 pixels on longer edge), and should have a good tonal range.
• We will then make your negatives in advance for you to work with them and print them during the workshop.
• Equipment and materials are provided.

What you will learn

• A brief history of the processes.
• An introduction to the chemicals and equipment needed.
• How to mix the chemicals.
• The paper choice and paper coating techniques.
• The different sources of UV light.
• Explore contrast control, processing, exposing, bleaching and toning.
• Safe and proper handling of materials.

For more information contact Conor at [email protected]