Description

Experience the timeless beauty of alternative photographic printing with Clairefontaine Cyanotype FONTAINE Paper, a specialist artist-quality surface developed to complement the traditional cyanotype process. Created in collaboration with Invincible Été, a French studio recognised for its distinctive cyanotype creations, this paper combines premium cotton fibres with carefully considered surface properties to support beautiful, detailed blue-toned prints.

Cyanotype is a photographic printing technique dating back to the 19th century that uses light-sensitive iron compounds and ultraviolet light to produce characteristic Prussian blue images. The process involves coating paper with a photosensitive solution, arranging botanical materials, objects, or photographic negatives on the prepared surface, and exposing it to sunlight or another UV light source. After exposure, the paper is rinsed with water to reveal the finished image.

Manufactured from 100% cotton, Clairefontaine FONTAINE Paper offers excellent absorbency and strength, making it particularly well suited to the repeated wetting involved in cyanotype printing. Its substantial 300 gsm weight helps maintain the paper’s structure throughout the printing process, while its dimensional stability reduces the risk of excessive warping during coating and rinsing.

The smooth satin-grain surface provides an ideal foundation for capturing delicate details, subtle tonal variations, and intricate compositions. Whether reproducing the fine veins of leaves, the delicate outlines of flowers, or detailed photographic imagery, the paper supports precise results with beautiful tonal contrast.

Free from optical brightening agents, this paper provides a natural surface that supports rich Prussian blue tones without the influence of artificial whitening additives. Its cotton composition also contributes to the paper’s archival qualities, making it an excellent choice for artists who value both creative expression and the longevity of their work.

Each pack contains 10 A4 sheets measuring 21 × 29.7 cm, offering a convenient format for botanical studies, experimental printmaking, photographic projects, and handmade artwork.

Whether you’re discovering cyanotype printing for the first time or refining your techniques as an experienced printmaker, Clairefontaine Cyanotype FONTAINE Paper provides a reliable, high-quality surface for exploring the creative possibilities of light-sensitive photographic art.

Please Note: This pack contains paper only. Cyanotype chemicals and printing accessories are sold separately.

What is Cyanotype?

Cyanotype is a traditional photographic printing process that uses water, sunlight, and a light-sensitive solution based on ferric salts. Experiencing a modern revival, this artistic technique allows you to capture biological specimens, leaves, flowers, or silhouettes, creating striking, one-of-a-kind art pieces in deep, inimitable Prussian blue.

How to Use:

1. Prepare: Brush a photosensitive cyanotype solution evenly onto a sheet of paper.

2. Compose: Arrange pressed flowers, leaves, or objects onto the treated paper and cover with a sheet of glass.

3. Expose: Place the glass assembly in direct sunlight for approximately 10 minutes.

4. Rinse & Dry: Remove the glass and objects, rinse the paper under water for about 2 minutes to reveal the design, then leave to dry in the sun.

About Clairefontaine & Collaboration:

Developed in partnership with French creator Invincible Été, this product reflects a shared passion for cyanotype art. True to its values, Clairefontaine continues to deliver innovative, high-quality, and environmentally friendly art materials designed to support and enhance your creative imagination.