Jacquard Cyanotype Ferric Ammonium Citrate 450g (16oz)

Jacquard Cyanotype Ferric Ammonium Citrate

Jacquard Ferric Ammonium Citrate is the light-sensitive component used in the classic cyanotype process, working alongside Potassium Ferricyanide to create the distinctive Prussian blue prints this historic technique is known for. In modern day Britain, where setting up a traditional darkroom at home or in education can be difficult, cyanotype offers a simple and engaging way to explore analogue photography in a contemporary and accessible way.

Printing-out paper, often referred to as sunprints, is based on this early photographic process. Images are created by placing objects such as leaves, shells, flowers, or textured patterns onto a coated surface and exposing it to sunlight for a few minutes. The paper is then rinsed in water for around 30 seconds to reveal the final image. The result is a print formed entirely by light and objects, with blocked areas remaining white and exposed areas turning rich blue.

Why We Like It

Cyanotype has a unique charm that makes it both educational and genuinely enjoyable to use. It is one of the most approachable ways to explore analogue photography, requiring no darkroom and minimal equipment. It works brilliantly for schools, art projects, and workshops, but it is equally appealing to photographers and artists looking for something more experimental. There is also a strong historical link here, as cyanotype was widely used in the 19th century to reproduce documents, maps, and plans, which is where the term “blueprint” comes from.

Jacquard’s chemistry is well priced and goes a long way, making it a practical option for regular use. Despite the technical names, the chemicals are straightforward to mix and handle with basic care, making them suitable for a wide range of users.

Key Features

• Ferric Ammonium Citrate for cyanotype and sun printing processes
• Light-sensitive iron salt used with Potassium Ferricyanide
• Produces classic Prussian blue monochrome prints
• Suitable for paper, fabric, and other absorbent surfaces
• Simple exposure using sunlight or UV light
• Quick processing with a water rinse
• Economical and long-lasting for repeated use
• Accessible process with no traditional darkroom required

What's in the Box

• 1 × Jacquard Cyanotype Ferric Ammonium Citrate

Ideal For

• Schools, colleges, and educational workshops
• Photographers exploring alternative processes
• Artists working with mixed media and natural materials
• Anyone wanting a simple, hands-on printing process without a darkroom

How to make basic cyanotype sensitizer formula and instructions:

Dissolve 40g (approximately 2 tablespoons) Potassium Ferricyanide in 400ml (1.7 cups) water to create stock solution A. Dissolve 100g (approximately .5 cup) Ferric Ammonium Citrate in 400ml (1.7 cups) water to create stock solution B. Mix stock solutions A & B in equal parts to create the cyanotype sensitizer. Coat paper or fabric with the sensitizer and allow to dry in the dark. Once dry, make exposures in sunlight or under a UV light source (3-15 minutes, depending on conditions), placing objects or a film negative on the coated surface to create an image. After exposure, prints are processed in a tray of cool water and allowed to air dry.