Re: Oiled Digital Neg + Cyanotype = Simplest Method For A Beginner ?!? [ HELP! :)]

Hi Paresh, I'm not sure of where you'd find info on oiling paper negatives apart from here. It's an easy process. I use an inkjet printer and have now got this working well....it's just a matter of adjusting your negative to the process. Just ask on the list for more info on cyan, I'm not sure but I think a slightly more contrasty neg (than for conventional silver) suits cyan better.

Printing: I've corrected where necessary.....
1. Choose my image...

2. Change its size to desirable output[say 8'x10' @ 300 dpi]...

now.....tweak the contrast using curves if necessary.......others know more about this than I do.

3. Turn-it to monochrome [black monochrome OR B/W]...

4. Invert it [neg effect]...

5. Print as colour....gives more ink coverage - 3 colours rather than just black

6. Oil the print [which is the best oil to do this ?]...paraffin oil is best but any cooking oil will do, just has a tendency to go rancid with age

7. Insert it in a clear-thin plastic cover/bag...only if you want to!

8. Make contact-print...

Voila!

For good info on cyanotypes, go to www.cyanotypes.com which has the instructions...also available there are instructions for many more alt. processes.

Happy printing!

Kate

  ----- Original Message -----
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  To: 'alt process list'
  Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2004 5:57 AM
  Subject: Oiled Digital Neg + Cyanotype = Simplest Method For A Beginner ?!? [ HELP! :)]

  Dear All,

  I am new to this list [as you all must already know :)]

  Also I am a novice in Alternative Photography [actually, not even a novice - yet to start!]

  I am thinking of starting-off with a cyanotype [with my limited knowledge from online articles etc.]...

  Is this what you all would suggest? I have no background in chemistry...

  Is there a simpler/less complex method to begin-with?

  Can you point me to a good website where I can find highly detailed procedure to help me make my first & "successful" print? :)

  Also, I can't afford large-format negs.

  I was thinking of making digital negs from commercial graphic houses.

  [that would cost me INR 0.75 per sq. inch... you know, the ones used for plate-making!]

  However, reading the digital-neg process of oiling on the list, I thought I would try that out as my first.

  I have an HP Deskjet inkjet printer...

  What do I do?:

  1. Choose my image...

  2. Change its size to desirable output[say 8'x10' @ 300 dpi]...

  3. Turn-it to monochrome [black monochrome OR B/W]...

  4. Invert it [neg effect]...

  5. Print as Black Only...

  6. Oil the print [which is the best oil to do this ?]...

  7. Insert it in a clear-thin plastic cover/bag...

  8. Make contact-print...

  Voila!

  Is this correct?

  Where can I get best info on making oiled-digital-negs on an inkjet [what paper, what oil, what resolution, etc.]?

  Please HELP all you can...

  Thanking you,

  With Regards,

  Paresh Pandit

  Mumbai, IN.

  February 11, 2004

   
Received on Wed Feb 11 15:25:20 2004