https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/cyanotype-tie-dye • Posted by Kristi P.
Cyanotype is the process of exposing and transferring images via cyanotype chemicals and sunlight (or UV light). I created this pretty "tie dye" tank with a quick chemical wash and a little sunshine!
Cyanotype is the process of exposing and transferring images via cyanotype chemicals and sunlight (or UV light). I created this pretty "tie dye" tank with a quick chemical wash and a little sunshine!
To start, prep all of your materials, including adding water to your cyanotype chemicals, if necessary. Make sure to read all instructions that came with your chemicals. *I used a Cyanotype Sensitizer Set from Jacquard. **You may want poster board, cardboard or plastic bags to work on and/or place between the layers of your garment/material.
Mix your cyanotype chemicals in equal parts (or a 1:1 ratio) in a bowl or jar. The liquid should be a fairly dark green color.
In a shaded space, evenly coat your material with the mixed cyanotype chemicals. **Try to stay out of any sunlight as much as possible, once the chemicals are mixed and on the material, they will start oxidizing in the sun.
Once your fabric is fully coated, carefully transfer to a dark space for drying. The material must not be exposed to any sunlight while it dries. I hung my project up in a closed closet to dry overnight!
After allowing the fabric to dry, it is time to create the "tie dye" effect using sunlight! I simply brought my tank top outside, wrapped it up in a twisted/circular shape so that only parts of the material would be exposed to the sun. As the chemicals oxidize, the material will change from light green to dark green/blue until it reaches a brownish tint and that is when it's done! It may take anywhere from a few minutes to 30 minutes -- make sure to expose both sides!
As soon as you feel the fabric is properly exposed to the sun, rinse it in cool water for five minutes. Make sure all chemicals are rinsed from the material as they will continue to oxidize throughout the washing and drying process.
Soak in the beauty while you allow your creation to dry! ;)