1. How to Prepare a Blueprint Solution for
Sun Printing
Blueprinting (cyanotype) is an alternative photographic process that has been used to reproduce
technical designs for architectural and engineering plans. You can apply this same technique to
create blue and white designs on paper or fabric using the sun and two chemicals: ferric
ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide.
Instructions
o 1
Pour eight ounces of warm distilled water into the measuring cup and set
aside.
o 2
Measure one-half ounce of potassium ferricyanide. Open the lightproof
bag or bottle of potassium ferricyanide and pour about one-half cup of the
chemical slowly into one of the cups. Place the cup on the scale and check
the weight. Add more of the chemical if needed to measure one-half
ounce.
o 3
Slowly pour the potassium ferricyanide into the measuring cup, a little at a
time. Stir until the chemical dissolves.
o 4
Measure one ounce of potassium ferricyanide. Open the lightproof bag or
bottle of ferric amonium citrate and slowly pour about one-half cup of the
chemical into the remaining cup. Place the cup on the scale and check the
weight. Add more of the chemical if needed to measure one ounce. Reseal
the lightproof bag.
o 5
Add the ferric amonium citrate, a little at a time, to the potassium
ferricyanide already dissolved in the measuring cup. Stir until the
chemical is dissolved and the solution is thoroughly mixed. Reseal the
lightproof bag.
o 6

2. Clean the work area. Wash surfaces with paper towels and water that may
have come into contact with the blueprint solution. Spills may not be
visible but may appear hours later when you may encounter blue stains. If
you are not ready to print, store the solution in a lightproof container.
Tips & Warnings
 Do not use metal containers because metal can react with the chemicals and spoil
your solution.
 Work away from direct sunlight. Otherwise, the chemicals will react to the light
before you are ready to print. Incandescent and fluorescent light will change the
chemicals but very slowly.
 The chemicals are safe when used properly. Do not add acid to potassium
ferricyanide because acid can react with the chemical to produce hydrogen
cyanide. Also, do not heat potassium ferricyanide above 572 degrees Fahrenheit.
 Wear a dust mask to protect from inhaling the chemicals, which are in powder
form.
 Cover your work area with the drop cloth because the blueprint solution can stain
your table and floor. Wear an apron to protect your clothing from stains, wear
goggles to protect your eyes, and wear your gloves to protect your hands from
stains.
More Resources
 Business Card Printing http://www.samedayprinting.com/business-card-
printing.html
 Flyer Printing http://www.samedayprinting.com/flyers.html
 Postcard Printing http://www.samedayprinting.com/postcards.html
 Poster Printing http://www.samedayprinting.com/posters.html
 Banner Printing http://www.samedayprinting.com/banners.html
 Brochure Printing http://www.samedayprinting.com/brochure-printing.html
 Sticker Printing http://www.samedayprinting.com/sticker-printing.html
 Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) Printing
http://www.samedayprinting.com/direct-mail-printing-eddm.html