The History and Process of Cyanotype: John Herschel invented the process of the process known as the blueprint process in 1842. but it was anna atkins that wrote a book and explained the process using illustrations and examples of the cyanotype "shadowgraphs." Cyanotype is a process that uses light sensitive chemicals to copy a pattern that is made by blocking the light in the shape of the pattern. When the chemicals have not exposed it leaves a yellow finish on the canvas. after the object is placed over the canvas is exposed to direct sunlight, the color begins to fade into a grey. once rinsed with water and dried out, the canvas reveals its blue shading around the white pattern.
Procedures for Accidents: Skin Contact: In case of contact, immediately flush skin water. Cover the irritated skin with an emollient. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes. Cold water may be used. Wash clothing before reuse. Thoroughly clean shoes before reuse. Get medical attention.
Eye Contact: Check for and remove any contact lenses. In case of contact, immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Cold water may be used. Get medical attention.
What color was the cyanotype emulsion when it was applied to the paper?
The cyanotype emulsion was a greenish yellow color when applied to the paper.
What happened when it was placed outside in the sunlight? Why?
the solution lost its color when it was exposed to the sun because of the light sesitive cyanotype emulsion.
When your print was removed from the glass and the objects were removed, what did you observe?
I observed that the solution had lost all color and that the objects that were placed on top of the papers didnt leave a very precise image. i believe that this was due to the angel of the sunlight hitting our prints. Also the areas that were covered by our objects were a light green color.
Describe what happened to the exposed areas of the print and the unexposed areas of the print when it was placed in water. Why do you think this happened?
when the paper was submersed into the water, all the cyanotype emulsion washed off leaving a negative image.
i think this happens because of the light sensitive chemicals that only left residue on the reactant and exposed portion of the paper.
What happened when the Hydrogen Peroxide was added the the water bath?
when hydrogen peroxide is added to the water, it oxidizes the paper and helps cure the papers faster.
Any final thoughts about the way it looks, feels or your observations of the process?
the final product wasnt as good as i thought it would be but it still turned out pretty well.