DIY Cyanotype Sun Prints on Fabric: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 07/06/2025

Harness the power of the sun and transform ordinary fabric into breathtaking, one-of-a-kind works of art with the ancient photographic process of cyanotype. This captivating technique, producing stunning Prussian blue prints, is surprisingly accessible and requires minimal materials. Forget expensive photo labs and complicated software; with just a few readily available ingredients and a sunny day, you can create beautiful, unique textiles to adorn your home, clothing, or gifts. The delicate, ethereal quality of cyanotypes lends itself beautifully to nature-inspired designs, allowing you to capture the beauty of leaves, flowers, and even lace in a permanent, artistic way.

Discover the magic of sun-printing by following our easy, step-by-step guide below. We'll walk you through each stage of the cyanotype process, from mixing the chemical solution to exposing and washing your fabric, ensuring you achieve perfectly vibrant and long-lasting results. Let's embark on this creative journey and unlock the timeless beauty of DIY cyanotype sun prints.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Natural fabric (cotton gauze recommended)
  • Cyanotype kit (Jackard recommended)
  • Plexiglass or glass plate
  • Clear packing tape
  • Cardboard box
  • Bucket
  • Cold water
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Copper string lights (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Cyanotype chemicals are skin and clothing sensitizers. Wear gloves and eye protection at all times. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling chemicals and before touching your face or eyes.
  • Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, as the chemicals can release fumes. Avoid inhaling the dust from the dry chemicals.
  • Keep cyanotype solutions away from children and pets. Dispose of used chemicals responsibly according to local regulations.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fabric

    • Prep your fabric. Use natural fabric (cotton gauze is recommended). Hem the edges if desired.
    Prep your fabric. Use natural fabric (cotton gauze is recommended). Hem the edges if desired.
    Prepare the Fabric

  2. Mix the Cyanotype Solution

    • Mix the cyanotype solution. In a dark room, mix equal parts of solution A and B from the kit.
    Mix the cyanotype solution. In a dark room, mix equal parts of solution A and B from the kit.
    Mix the Cyanotype Solution

  3. Treat the Fabric with Cyanotype Solution

    • Treat the fabric. Dip the fabric into the mixed solution, wring it out, and hang it to dry in a dark place.

  4. Prepare Your Design

    • Prepare your design. Arrange leaves or other foliage on the dry fabric, securing them with tape to a plexiglass plate if using large fabric.
    Prepare your design. Arrange leaves or other foliage on the dry fabric, securing them with tape to a plexiglass plate if using large fabric.
    Prepare Your Design

  5. Sun Exposure

    • Expose to sunlight. Place the fabric and design in direct sunlight for 15-20 minutes.
    Expose to sunlight. Place the fabric and design in direct sunlight for 15-20 minutes.
    Sun Exposure

  6. Rinse and Wash the Fabric

    • Rinse and wash. Remove the design, and immediately rinse the fabric in cold water with hydrogen peroxide to stop the reaction.
    Rinse and wash. Remove the design, and immediately rinse the fabric in cold water with hydrogen peroxide to stop the reaction.
    Rinse and Wash the Fabric

  7. Dry and Finish

    • Dry and finish. Hang the fabric to dry completely.
    Dry and finish. Hang the fabric to dry completely.
    Dry and Finish

Read more: DIY Picture Frame from Oat Cartons and Fabric: A Simple & Unique Craft

Tips

  • Use natural fabrics for better results.
  • Work in a dark room when mixing and treating the fabric to prevent premature exposure to light.
  • Use a plexiglass or glass plate to keep leaves flat against the fabric, especially for larger projects.
  • Quickly rinse the fabric after sun exposure to halt the chemical reaction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Exposure to Sunlight

Reason: Parts of the fabric receive more or less sunlight than others, resulting in inconsistent color intensity and fading.
Solution: Ensure the fabric is laid flat and evenly exposed to direct sunlight, rotating it periodically for uniform exposure.

2. Overexposure or Underexposure to Sunlight

Reason: Too much sun leads to overly faded prints; too little sun results in weak, barely visible images.
Solution: Follow the recommended exposure time based on your sunlight intensity, and test a small area first to gauge the ideal exposure.

FAQs

How long does the cyanotype solution last?
A freshly mixed cyanotype solution is best used within a few hours for optimal results. However, it can be stored in a cool, dark, airtight container for up to a few weeks, although its effectiveness may decrease over time. It's always best to mix a fresh batch for each project.
What happens if I overexpose or underexpose my fabric in the sun?
Overexposure will result in a faded, washed-out blue. Underexposure will leave the print pale and lacking intensity. The ideal exposure time depends on sunlight intensity and the thickness of your fabric; experimentation is key to finding the perfect balance for your location and materials.