Cyanotype, Watercolor and Gouache - Strathmore Artist Papers (2024)

FAQs

What is the best watercolour paper for cyanotype? ›

Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolour Paper: 640 gsm is perfect for creating cyanotypes that can be hand finished with watercolour. The paper holds up well to the cyanotype photographic process because it can be washed in water repeatedly without co*ckling.

Chances are, you're looking at gouache. Artists dub this water media paint an “opaque watercolor.” It stands on its own, used historically for centuries by renowned artists. You can also mix it with watercolors for a dynamic effect.

Cartridge paper is the most widely used paper type for cyanotypes, watercolour paper also works well and other types of paper can be used to create different results. Whatever type you use, you want to use acid-free paper so that it doesn't interfere with the chemical reaction.

I recommend experimenting with different paper types – different paper textures will yield different results. Cyanotpye can be done on fabric, ceramic surfaces and eggshells! As long as the canvas surface can absorb and hold the light-sensitive solution, as well as hold the final image after the washout.

How long does coated cyanotype paper last? Coated paper should last a few weeks or more but it does depend on how it's stored, humidity etc.

Another easy way to embellish your cyanotype prints is to print over the image with acrylic paint. I especially like the look of silver, gold, and copper metallic paint with the deep blue and clean white of a cyanotype image. I use Golden and Liquitex brand acrylic paints, but any thick acrylic brand will work.

The cyanotype is made up of two simple solutions. You must use DISTILLED WATER for best results. Potassium ferricyanide and Ferric ammonium citrate (green) are mixed with water separately into dark brown bottles and they are uv sensitive when mixed.

The flat, shine-free surface of gouache makes it a preferred medium for illustrators. Because it readily re-activates with water, gouache layers tend to intermix, and darker colors will show through lighter ones. Some artists use this to their advantage, and plan for lines and details to come through top coats.

Some brands use pigments that tend to be naturally opaque and load the formulation with so much pigment that opacity is the result. This makes gouache more expensive than watercolor or acrylics. Those other types of paints don't need as much pigment in order for them to dry opaquely on paper or canvas.

Any paper made for watercolors is appropriate for gouache. You can also use at least 200 g/m², low grammage papers. To prevent any crinkling, paper under 300g/m² has to be wet and stretched on a board or frame. 1.2.

Can you do cyanotypes on watercolor paper? ›

The best paper to use for Cyanotypes is a good quality, watercolour paper.

First off you need to measure 25g of Ferric Ammonium Citrate and add water to bring it up to 100 ml. Next, you measure 10g of Potassium Ferricyanide and mix that with water to make up to 100ml. Make sure both the chemicals are fully dissolved. Finally, under subdued light, mix the two solutions together.

Sometimes you need to let your hand coated papers dry longer too. I coated mine with the starch substrate and when I used them the image washed right off. I now brush on the cyano solution directly to the paper and let it dry 3 days before using.

In my experience, hot watercolor paper works with virtually any ink because it has relatively low absorbency.

Choosing the Right Printer: When printing on watercolor paper, it's essential to use a printer that can accommodate thick and textured media. Inkjet printers are often preferred for their ability to handle various paper types, including watercolor paper.

Cyanotypes will work fairly well on anything made of natural fiber – try painting the solution onto cotton, silk, canvas, or wood and make prints on that.

The rough textured watercolor paper offers a natural white, matte finish. Printing on watercolor paper also provides substantial color range, visual interests, and surface dimension to your art prints. These benefits make for excellent reproduction of both traditional art and photography.