> I have been looking for some information on making paper for
>cyanotypes. I know that an additive is used to make the paper strong enough
>to withstand the washing required in the cyanotype process. I have one book
>that recommends a commercial product( I don't have the information here but
>it was called something like "Hercules"??). No one here seemed to know this
>product and the book does not give any alternatives. So if any one could
>help with this it would be appreciated.
I use an internal sizing, a substance whose name "Hercon 70" says nothing
about what it really is, when I make my own paper. It has worked quite
nicely with cyanotypes, VanDyke prints and Liquid Light. It is available
from Lee Scott McDonald, a supplier for hand papermakers (617-242-2505, P.
O. Box 264, Charlestown, MA 02129)
If you already have the paper you want to use, you need to apply an
external sizing. I have had two students experiment with different
coatings of gelatin and various starches - the results change as the amount
of sizing changes, but I cannot done enough experimenting to say "do this."
Most commercial papers already have some sizing; I have gotten decent
results with several different papers. Lee Scott McDonald also sells some
external sizings.
John Bordley