Cyanotype print on fabric

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Create these delightful prints on different types of textiles. The prints are made using the popular cyanotype photographic technique, also called a sunprint. Inspiration for the designs comes from nature and the flowers and leaves are transformed into beautiful wall decorations and a unique tote bag.

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How to do it

Video guide Get step-by-step instructions on how to make a cyanotype print on fabric.

Fill the bottles with water to the top of the label.

Shake the bottles well to dissolve the powder. The mixture is ready to use after 24 hours.

Mix the two liquids 1:1. Once mixed, it must be used within 2-4 hours.

How to make a cyanotype print – also known as a sun print – on textiles. Wear gloves when working with the cyanotype liquid.

Place a piece of plastic inside the bag to protect the back.

Using the foam brush, apply the liquid to the area to be printed. Avoid UV rays from the sun.

Allow the liquid to dry on the fabric for 30-90 minutes in the dark. For example, place it inside a box.

While it dries, you prepare the design. For example, create a design with different leaves and flowers, which are then secured to the plastic sheet with clear tape.

Place the design on the fabric with the plastic sheet on top and the heavy plate behind it.

Attach clips all around so that the design is pressed against the fabric and the plate. Do this in a dark place to avoid UV radiation from the sun.

Place the project in sunlight on a windowsill or outdoors. In sunshine, it takes 3-30 minutes for the colour to change from greenish to greyish – and around 4-5 hours on a cloudy day.

Remove the design, clips, plastic and plate.

Rinse the fabric in cold water and rub off any excess colour to reveal the bright blue colour.

Rinse until all paint is removed from the fabric and the water in the bucket is clean (approx. 3 buckets of water).

Place the bag flat on an absorbent surface like a towel and allow to dry.

How to make a design from a cut-out

Place plastic inside the tote bag.

Using a foam brush, apply the liquid to the area to be printed. Wear gloves and avoid UV rays from the sun.

Allow the mix to dry on the fabric for 30-90 minutes in the dark. For example, place it inside a box.

While it dries, you prepare the design. Cut a design out of a sheet of paper.

Place the design on the dry bag in the green area with the cyanotype mix.

Place the clear plastic sheet on top, the heavy plate behind the fabric and use clips all around the edges to hold them together securely.

Expose the design to sunlight on the windowsill or outdoors until the colour changes to grey. Afterwards, remove the design, plastic sheet, clips and hard plate.