How to Make Cyanotype on Fabric: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

By Cyanoprints
3 min read
Botanical cyanotype prints on light cotton and linen

Cyanotype on textiles works most reliably on pre-washed natural fibers such as cotton and linen. The fabric must absorb the solution, dry flat and be thoroughly rinsed after exposure. Because cyanotype is not an ordinary textile paint, maintenance also requires attention: cold, sparingly and without phosphate-rich or strongly alkaline detergent.

Which substances are suitable?

  • Cotton: accessible, absorbent and suitable for bags, patches and wall textiles.
  • Linen: strong and characterful, but the structure can soften fine details.
  • Side: can work, but requires a small test due to sensitivity and price.
  • Hemp and canvas: usable when the fibers are natural and untreated.
  • Polyester: generally takes classic cyanotype poorly and is not a reliable first choice.

Step 1: Pre-wash the fabric

Wash new fabric to remove factory glue, dirt and finishing agents. Do not use fabric softener. Allow to dry and iron the fabric flat. For colored fabric, test first: cyanotype is transparent, so the background color remains visible and changes the final blue.

Step 2: Protect the back

Place a waterproof sheet or plastic layer between the front and back of a bag or garment. This way the solution does not spread to unwanted parts. Lightly stretch the fabric on a flat surface without deforming the fibers.

Step 3: coat thinly and evenly

Mix solutions A and B just before use according to the instructions. Apply a limited amount with a soft foam brush . Work in one direction and do not iron over semi-dry areas again. Too much liquid causes edges, spots and blemishes.

Step 4: Allow to dry completely

Allow the fabric to dry horizontally or stretched tightly in the dark. A damp coating provides less contrast and can stick to the negative or contact plate. Store coated textiles in a dark place if you are not using direct lighting.

Step 5: make good contact

Place leaves, stencils or a transparent negative on the fabric and cover with glass or UV-transmitting plexiglass. A soft underlay behind the fabric can help keep everything pressed against the contact plate. Use clamps all around, especially on thick canvas.

Step 6: exposed with a test piece

Textiles react differently than paper. Therefore, coat a residual piece and make a test strip with the same light source and distance. The exposure time guide helps with sunlight and UV lamps.

Step 7: Rinse thoroughly

Rinse in cool water and change the water until yellow-green residue is gone. Move the fabric gently; do not wring out a fragile wet print. Allow to dry flat or without sharp creases. The blue usually deepens during drying.

Maintenance of cyanotype textiles

  • Wash as little as possible and preferably by hand in cold water.
  • Use a mild, phosphate-free detergent.
  • Avoid bleach, baking soda and strongly alkaline stain removers.
  • Do not soak for long periods of time.
  • Store dry pieces out of permanent bright sunlight.

Troubleshooting

The print is pale

Extend the exposure, check if the coating was dry and test if the fabric contains finishing agents. A second prewash may help.

The coating is spotty

Use less solution, stretch the fabric flatter and work in one quick coat. Check whether fabric softener or grease is on the fibers.

Details are blurred

Improve contact under the plate and use a thinner, smoother fabric. Thick seams and hinges can prevent the plate from lying flat everywhere.

The blue fades after washing

Wash colder and less often with a suitable detergent. Cyanotype is less wash-fast on textiles than a real textile paint.

Frequently asked questions

Can cyanotype be used on a T-shirt?

Yes, especially on light-colored cotton. Place a barrier in the shirt and take into account regular washing. A loosely sewn panel often remains beautiful for longer.

Can it be done on black fabric?

The blue image has little contrast on black because the print is transparent. Choose white, natural or a light color.

Is a tote bag a good first project?

Yes, provided the bag is mainly made of cotton and has been pre-washed. View the cyanotype collection for suitable materials.

Do you see yellow spots, light areas or stripes? Also use the comprehensive cyanotype troubleshooter .