Re: Papers?
SCHRAMMR@WLSVAX.WVNET.EDU
Mon, 20 May 1996 12:04:50 -0400 (EDT)
I use Rives BFK exclusively for Cyanotype as is, i. e. without additional
sizing. It takes a coating well. I use 120 lb paper. I get beautiful
prints with it and it stands up very well if you want to do any toning.
I also use it as is for gum and have used it for kallitype. Its an all-
round good paper. I believe it is a good paper for beginners to use.
I have use Arches Platine, but I prefer Cranes Platinotype for Platinium
and Paladium. I like the color better and it seems to take a coating
better. I have also used it for kallitype. Frankly, I think you should
try various papers yourself until you get the look you want. Thats part
of the fun of alternate processes. I have, for example, made cyanotype
prints on marbled paper, bark paper, bamboo paper, wood, cloth, handmade
paper ..... well, you get the idea. Two important rules that come to
mind are: (1) make sure the paper has wet strength and (2) don't try
to use buffered paper with cyanotype. As to the latter, my personal
opinion is that one sould stay away from buffered paper altogether
since there is no telling what effect the buffereing agent is going to
have on the sensitizer.
Bob Schramm
Dept. of Physics or Art
West Liberty State College
schrammr@wlsvax.wvnet.edu