2027 WORKSHOP DATES will be announced in March. Sign up to the Newsletter to be the first to know and to grab your spot.

Cyanotype Workshops Wiltshire - Learn the Alchemy of Sun Printing

Step into the world of alternative photography with our hands-on cyanotype workshops in near Bath, Wiltshire. Commonly known as sun printing, this beautiful, 19th-century 'cameraless' photographic process uses UV light to create rich Prussian blue prints. Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned artist, the workshops provide everything you need to start creating your mini portfolio of cyanotypes.  Run from a specifically designed space beside my studio, the two hour workshops are a chance to have an ‘Experimental Delve’ into this historic technique in small and relaxed groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need.

I’m passionate about the Cyanotype process.  The reaction of two simple iron compounds reacting with sunshine to produce photographic blue prints never ceases to amaze.  But it is the Alchemy of the wash process; when a new print reveals its secret and ethereal, blue image that got me hooked on the process in the first place.  And it is one of my favourite parts of teaching the Cyanotype Workshops ~ I’m always watching for the inevitable delight and wonder on the participant’s faces.

What You Will Learn in Two Hours?

  • The Science & History: A quick look at the origins of cyanotype (including it's historic links to Lacock & Bath) and how UV light interacts with the chemistry.
  • Mixing & Coating: Master the ratio of ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide, and learn how to coat various papers and fabrics.
  • Composition & Exposure: Arrange botanicals, negatives, or found objects, and time your exposures perfectly under the sun or UV lamps.
  • Rinsing & Toning: Watch your prints develop in water instantly before your eyes to reveal their own Prussian blues.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Are the Iron Solutions Safe? Yes.  The traditional cyanotype solutions we use are low-toxicity and safe to handle with the basic precautions.  One of them is even the key ingredient in Irn-Bru.
  • Do I need prior art or photography experience? Not at all! Cyanotype is a camera-less, beginner friendly process that does not require any drawing, painting or technical camera skills.  If you can place a leaf on a bit of paper and wait for a while in the sun then you can do this!
  • What will I actually make and take home? You'll have a mini portfolio of least 4 photographic blue prints (probably more), plus create some light sensitive paper of your own to continue your experiments at home.
  • What happens if it is cloudy or rains? If we're unlucky not to have the sun shine on us we use the UV lamps in the studio so the workshop can take place whatever the weather.
  • What should I bring? Nothing at all except an open mind.  All materials, resources and paper are included. You are of course welcome to bring your own dried and pressed flowers & foliage or high-contrast transparencies if you already have specific vision.
  • Is there parking? Yes. Space on the drive for 4-5 cars plus off street parking 20m away.

Ready to Book your Spot?

Spaces are limited for each session to ensure plenty of individual guidance.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL WORKSHOPS for 2026 have now SOLD OUT.  The 2027 dates will be announced in March.  To ensure you grab a place sign up to the newsletter.  Subscribers always get first dibs.