Cyanotype Workshop

First developed by Sir John Herschel in 1842, a cyanotype is created by treating paper with iron salts to make it UV sensitive. An object is placed on the treated paper before exposing it to light, leaving any covered areas white while the exposed area turns a vibrant blue. After exposure, the paper is washed in water to remove the chemicals and preserve the image. Join us for a cyanotype making workshop, where you’ll use plants to create botanical images! Space is limited. Please contact emilyberan@cornell.edu. This workshop is organized by Cornell University Library's Conservation department and Rare and Manuscript Collections. It is part of a series of events in conjunction with the Plant-Based: Botanical Innovations from Paper to Poison exhibition, on view in Carl A. Kroch Library through August 2026.