Help with cyanotype paper

[Randy]

My only experience with cyanotype printing is with buying pre-coated 8X10 paper from sunprints. I am going to buy the chemicals for the original formula and coat my own paper, probably printing mostly 8X10 negs. I have read much of what can be found on the web and I have several printed sources - my problem is deciding on a paper and a good source for the paper. The sunprint paper is heavily textured so I would like to use something a bit smoother so I can get more detail.
If some of you alternative printers can recommend some rather inexpensive papers and a source for ordering, I would be grateful.

[drgoose]

My experience has been hit or miss. I can tell you that Bergger Cot 320 works well for me. Not cheap but works well.

[ndg]

I use Artistico Fabriano and Arches Platine.

[Jim Noel]

Second Arches Platine. Nice surface,coats easily, moderate cost and prints beautifully.

[Kevin Harding]

Do you size your papers? I have a selection of watercolour papers I want to try, but I'm unsure if I should be sizing them.

[ndg]

Try both sized and unsized papers. I size with gum and pva size or use fixed out photo paper. The latter can be unpredictable.

[Kevin Harding]

Will do. Just waiting on my UV bulbs, then off to the races.

[joselsgil]

Kevin,

You can use that free light source, aka the sun, instead of UV bulbs. That is the old school method of printing.

[Kevin Harding]

Yes, of course, but it's not as controllable nor as reproducible.

[Joe Smigiel]

Crane's Kid Finish stationery ecruwhite has been my favorite for a number of alternative processes including cyanotype. I've also made some nice cyanotypes on Bienfang Graphic 360 Art Marker paper though it is difficult to handle.

Here's one on the Bienfang from an 8x10 negative. It has a nice translucency to it.



Truthfully, cyanotypes like garbage acid papers so even a grocery bag will give good results with the process.