Layers of Lace

I often struggle to find botanical specimens to make cyanotypes with in the depths of winter and the sun is obviously much weaker at this time of year. As I sit here in early December it's dull, grey and miserable and absolutely not good weather for cyanotypes outside. 

I thought it would be a good idea to give my self a new winter project and time to try something different. I decided to make cyanotypes with lace. I have a very small collection of old bits and bobs but nothing of any note. I have been experimenting with exposure times over the last few weeks, using my UV lamp indoors, making traditional cyanotype prints from my lace off cuts. The results are very pretty and not at all in the style of my usual work. I can see lots of potential for this project to keep me occupied for the next couple of months, until the spring flowers start to make an appearance in my garden. 

​I mentioned to a friend that I was going to make cyanotypes with lace for a change and a few days later she arrived at the house with a bag containing some antique lace handkerchiefs, a brides veil and a baby's christening gown. She asked me to make some cyanotype prints of the items. What an exciting prospect!  


​I am not a sentimental person and I have no personal connection to my friend's objects but I was surprised to find myself feeling quite emotional when the first print of one of the handkerchiefs was completed. I began to think about the history of the handkerchief, Belgian linen and lace, with the words "Sovenir de Bruges" embroidered on the corner. Who might have bought it? Was it a souvenir for themselves or a gift for a loved one back at home? It's still in it's original gift box and the folds are visible in the cyanotype print. I thought about ironing them out but was afraid of damaging the handkerchief and felt that it would be removing part of it's history by doing so. 



Now I have started work on the christening gown. It's so beautiful and very delicate, over 90 years old, and I am wary of exposing it to too much UV light. These will be the largest cyanotype pieces I have ever made and there are many challenges to overcome. My largest sheet of paper is 56 x 76 cm and the gown only just fits on the paper. I don't have a tray large enough to rinse paper of this size so I'm having to use the shower. The clothes airer is only just big enough for me to hang the damp prints on to dry. I love a challenge! My first attempts have been very successful and I'm very excited to show them to my friend. 

This project has opened up a whole new world and my brain is now whirring with ideas and new possibilities to explore. I'll keep you posted...

---