Hmm ... I've never thought about printing on feathers. Interesting!
I've never used Liquid Light or coated a feather for that matter,but thought I'd
offer a few thoughts. First, could the feather be coated without using the
polyurethane? The natural oils in the feather would probably keep the
sensitizer from penetrating the fibers themselves, but may also prevent it from
sticking as well. I imagine that the yellow tinge is from the polyurethane. I
think that most of these have a slightly yellowish cast to start with, so I
think I'd look for a more suitable sealer. You've already mentioned gelatine
which might work well applied as you suggest to both sides. You might also want
to try something like spray starch, or even albumin. I think I'd try the starch
first.
>>Just so you all think I am not the only nut in the family, my
>>son wants to print on metal and include the printed pieces in
>>his sculptures. Any suggestions for him?
Try calling Metalphoto at 216-475-0555 or 1-800-482-7758. They make sensitized
aluminum plates used for signs, plaques, awards, instrument panels, etc..
Another possibility is to try making sensitized aluminum sheets yourself. This
is on my list of things to do in the future. Basically, you anodize a sheet of
aluminum, which creates a very porous oxide layer on the metal. Then instead of
dipping the piece in a dye as is usually done, it should be possible to saturate
the layer with a sensitizing solution. How about an aluminum substrate
cyanotype? If you want more details on the anodizing process let me know, and
I'll put something together.
Of course, if you already have the Liquid Light, why not use this on the metal
of your choice?
Just some spurious thoughts. Hope you find some of them useful.
- Wayde Allen