Making Cyanotypes on Fabric is Easy

Cyanotypes are a photographic technique that uses a dye and a negative to create a positive image. The process was invented by British astronomer and chemist John Frederick William Herschel (1792 – 1871).

This technique is great for capturing gorgeous botanical images. I can’t think of a better way to create art from your home garden than to make sun prints from plants and leaves found in your backyard.

I’ve used the cyanotype process to create a lot of great images on paper, but this is the first time I’m making cyanotypes on fabric.

I bought the fabric from Blick Art Supplies. It was already treated with the cyanotype chemicals. All I needed to do was add botanical elements from my garden and expose the fabric in the sunshine.

This process is fun and easy. I took six of the fabric pieces I like most and sewed them together to make a pillow for my sofa. You can see a picture of the pillow below.

How fun is this?

DIY Cyanotypes on Fabric Video

The next technique I want to try is embellishing fabric cyanotypes with embroidery. I found these photos on Pinterest that I love. This would make a great addition to a fabric cyanotype.

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