Author: Ed Leijnse

retired but not tired. Photography is my hobby, programming is my passion.

Cyanotype project with Sunprint Refill Kit

On a cloudy afternoon in late November (20th) I’ve decided to give it a try with the Sunprint Refill Kit. 
As a base for this project I used a photo I made in Zürich from the Fraumünster clock arrows. I cut the form with a cutter to use it as a template.
You can buy this at ars-imago committed to photography
I asked for help in CoPilot:
How can I use the Sunprint Refill Kit from Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley?
Short answer: The Sunprint Refill Kit is very simple to use: place an object (e.g., leaf, flower, key) on the special paper, expose it briefly to sunlight, and then rinse it with water. This creates a permanent, deep-blue print – a cyanotype.
🌞 Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Prepare materials
    • Sunprint paper (from the Refill Kit)
    • A transparent acrylic sheet or plexiglass (to hold objects in place)
    • A piece of cardboard as a backing
    • A bowl of water
    • Objects of your choice (leaves, flowers, small items)

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  • Arrange objects
    • Keep the paper in the shade so it doesn’t get exposed too early.
    • Place the objects on the paper.
    • Cover them with the acrylic sheet so they lie flat and the outlines stay sharp.
  • Expose in sunlight
    • Carry the prepared paper into direct sunlight.
    • Exposure time: 2–5 minutes in bright sun, longer (5–20 minutes) if cloudy.
    • The paper changes from blue to white – that’s when it’s fully exposed.
  • Develop in water
    • Place the paper in a bowl of water for 1–5 minutes.
    • The colors reverse: exposed areas turn deep blue, covered areas stay white.
    • Let the paper dry afterwards.
  • Your Sunprint is ready!
    • You’ll have a permanent, artistic image – a cyanotype.
    Tips for best results:
    • Sharp outlines: Use the acrylic sheet so objects press closely against the paper.
    • Experiment: Try transparent materials (e.g., glass pieces, plastic film) for interesting effects.
    • Longer exposure: In weak light, simply wait longer until the color fades clearly.
    • Creativity: Combine natural materials with everyday objects for unique patterns.

In December 2025 there was an exhibition of some Cyanotype paintings from Vivian Ammerlaan in the Singer Museum in Laren, Holland.
​Vivian Ammerlaan