An Easy-to-Prepare Cyanotype Kit
The Jacquard cyanotype kit is one of the most widely used formats for getting started with this historical photographic process. It allows you to easily prepare the emulsion needed to work with cyanotype on paper, textile or other surfaces.
It includes the two chemicals required to prepare the photosensitive emulsion, already measured in the correct proportions. This means no scale or calculations are needed, making the process much more accessible for beginners.
Cyanotype is a photographic process based on the reaction of photosensitive iron salts which, when exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light, produce the characteristic image known as Prussian blue.
Contents of the Jacquard Cyanotype Kit
The kit includes the two components required to prepare the working solutions:
Solution A
Ferric ammonium citrate — 53.86 g
Solution B
Potassium ferricyanide — 22.68 g
Each component is dissolved separately in water.
Once prepared, each solution yields approximately 256 ml, allowing more than 500 ml of working emulsion when mixed in equal parts.
Yield of the Kit
With the included chemicals, it is possible to produce approximately:
These figures are approximate and depend on the surface used and the amount of emulsion applied.
More than 500 ml of emulsion allows comfortable use in workshops or extended experimentation.
Preparing the Solutions
To prepare the kit correctly:
-
Dissolve each component separately in distilled water
-
Let the solutions rest for approximately 24 hours
-
Store them in opaque containers or protected from light
The final emulsion is prepared by mixing equal parts of solution A and B just before use.
Storage and Shelf Life
Dry chemicals can be stored for months if kept properly.
Ferric ammonium citrate is sensitive to humidity and may harden if stored incorrectly.
Prepared solutions can last for weeks if stored away from light.
The final mixed emulsion should be used shortly after preparation.
Coated materials can be stored dry and protected from light for weeks before exposure.
Surfaces
Can be applied to:
Exposure and Development
Exposure can be done with:
-
Sunlight
-
UV lamps
-
Exposure units
After exposure, the image is developed simply by washing with water.
About the Jacquard Manufacturer
Jacquard is one of the best-known manufacturers in the field of solar chemicals, cyanotype products and alternative photographic printing techniques. Their products are widely used in art workshops, educational settings and experimental photography projects.
In addition to this cyanotype kit, the brand has also developed other solar printing systems such as SolarFast, a line of photosensitive dyes specifically designed for textile printing.
If you want to learn more about the process, you can find additional documentation on the Jacquard website, including detailed cyanotype instructions, practical tips and frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much emulsion can be prepared with this kit?
Once solutions A and B are prepared, you obtain more than 500 ml of photosensitive emulsion by mixing both parts in equal proportions.
What is the shelf life of the chemicals?
Dry chemicals can last for months if stored properly. If ferric ammonium citrate has hardened, it may have been affected by humidity and should not be used.
How long do the prepared solutions last?
Solutions A and B can be stored separately for weeks if kept in opaque containers and protected from light.
How long does the mixed cyanotype solution last?
The final emulsion should be prepared just before use, ideally within the same day. It can remain active for a limited time if stored away from light, but it is best to mix only what is needed.
How long do coated papers or fabrics last?
Coated materials can be stored dry and protected from light for weeks or even months. Over time they may darken slightly, but they generally remain usable.
Do I need to weigh the chemicals?
No. One of the main advantages of this kit is that the components are already pre-measured.
Is it better than laboratory chemicals?
Not necessarily. It is simply a different format. This kit is designed for ease of use, while laboratory chemicals allow more control over proportions.
Other Cyanotype Kits and Chemicals
If you want to explore other ways of working with cyanotype, you may also be interested in:
We also offer other alternative photographic processes and solar-based techniques, such as Van Dyke or Lumen Print from PAR
