An ancient technique, accessible to all, for capturing nature on paper or fabric.
Published on May 4,2026 at 7:57 AM | Updated on Jun 1,2026 at 12:33 PM

What is cyanotype?

The cyanotype is an old photographic process invented in 1842 by the British scientist John Herschel. Originally used to reproduce architectural plans (hence the term "blueprint"), it soon became an artistic technique in its own right, thanks in particular to the botanist Anna Atkins, who was the first to use it to illustrate plants.

The magic of the cyanotype lies in its simplicity and its unique rendering: a negative image, tinted with Prussian blue, obtained simply thanks to the light of the sun.

Cyanotype showing an early botanical illustration of the plant Hepatica, with Latin and Germanic annotations.

The principle? A photosensitive surface reacts to UV rays: objects (often natural elements) are placed on it, then it is exposed.

It's the perfect DIY activity for summer!

  • The cyanotype ticks all the boxes for a good summer creative project: it can be done outdoors (the sun is your best ally)
  • It values nature's treasures collected on walks
  • It requires no drawing skills or complex hardware.
  • The result is always surprising and poetic.

It's also an ideal activity to do with children(under supervision), or to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature.

Floral cyanotype hanging from a thread, showing silhouettes of white flowers against a blue background in natural summer light.

What do you need to get started?

Here is the basic equipment:

  • A photosensitive solution (usually a mixture of two chemicals sold in DIY kits)
  • A wide brush or a flat sponge to spread the solution
  • Thick paper(watercolour, cotton, or special cyanotype paper) or light cloth.
  • Opaque or semi-transparent objects: flowers, leaves, lace, feathers, stencils, etc.
  • A glass plate or frame to hold the components flat
  • A tank of water for rinsing
  • And of course... sunshine!
Cyanotype material with dried plants on watercolour paper, antique metal scissors, against a background of green cutting mat.

How to make a cyanotype, step by step

You don't need to be a chemist to make a successful cyanotype! Here's how to do it, step by step:

1. Preparing the solution

Two products are used: ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide. These two powders are often sold in kit form. Simply mix them in equal parts in a place out of the sun.

2. Apply to the substrate

Using a brush or sponge, spread the solution onto thick paper (such as watercolour) or light-coloured fabric. Leave to dry in a dark place for a few hours.

3. Composing your image

Once the base is dry, place your elements on it (flowers, leaves, lace...), then place a glass plate on top to keep them flat.

4. Exposure to the sun

Place your composition in the sun for around 10 to 20 minutes. That's a good sign!

5. Rinse and reveal the image

After exposure, remove the objects and rinse the paper in cold water for a few minutes. The magic happens: the blue appears and the shapes leave their mark.

6. Allow to dry

Once rinsed, leave to dry flat. The blue will intensify as it dries.

Cyanotype being developed in a tank of water, with white fern prints on an intense blue background.

5 ideas for cyanotype creations to make this summer

Natural postcards

When out and about, pick a few leaves, fine herbs or small flowers. Then arrange them on light-sensitive card to produce a cyanotype: a beautiful bluish print that captures the delicacy of the plants. You'll get a unique postcard to send or keep as a souvenir, full of charm and 100% handmade. A simple and poetic way to share your holidays in a different way!
Set of cyanotype prints depicting leaves and various plants in white negative on a blue background.
An open book on the grass, decorated with yellow, purple and white wildflowers.

An illustrated travel diary

Personalise the cover or a few pages of your summer notebook with cyanotype prints of leaves, flowers or branches. This process mixes writing with images, memory with sensations. Your notebook becomes a veritable artistic diary, both personal and aesthetic, where each page tells the story of your summer through deep blue natural motifs.

A tote bag with a plant motif

For a practical and unique accessory, choose a natural cotton tote bag and decorate it with cyanotypes of leaves or flowers. By exposing the fabric to light, you'll obtain precise blue silhouettes, which you can then fix with vinegar to ensure they hold up when washed. The result is an original, eco-friendly and trendy bag. Ideal for outings, shopping or as a handmade gift that's sure to impress.
Beige tote bag decorated with a cyanotype motif of white flowers on a blue background.
A wall display of blue and white cyanotype works around a framed minimalist illustration.

A decorative frame to enhance nature

Cyanotype captures the delicacy of plants in an almost poetic way: why not turn it into a work of art in its own right? Choose your most beautiful prints - graphic ferns, eucalyptus leaves, fine lace - and frame them in a wooden frame. Hanging alone or in a series on a wall, these creations add a natural, artistic touch to your home, a reminder of a summer walk.

Bookmarks inspired by your walks

Create a series of unique bookmarks with a few sprigs of lavender, fern or small flowers. The cyanotype will print their shapes and textures in shades of blue, giving life to small objects that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Perfect to keep for yourself or to give as gifts, they're a delicate nod to nature.
Cyanotype bookmark inserted in a book, decorated with white plant motifs on a blue background.

This summer, let your creativity flow, pick a few flowers... and print the beauty of the moment in deep blue.