Paper for alt process printing

Today I began a 15 week class on non-silver processes. Specifically we will be working with Cyanotypes, Van Dyke Browns and Salted paper prints. Much of the work will be done with printing the same negative using the different processes and also using different papers to see which work best. I would like to shorten my discovery period and would appreciate any suggestions on which papers I might try that could be expected to produce favorable results and perhaps which I might avoid. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Bill Barber

g'day Bill

maybe you need to go through the whole "discovery period"

Ray

For a class room situation, I'd stick with less expensive papers, so your mistakes don't cost as much. Crane's Kid Finish in white and ecru are very reasonably priced and work well for alt-processes. The Weston Diploma Parchment from Crane's is a little more expensive, but it's a heavier weight and has a harder smoother surface, when compared to the Kid Finish. Bergger's COT-320 is a premium-priced paper, but it's probably one of the nicest looking and best printing papers available.

I'd be happy to send you free samples of each paper for the class, if that would make things easier for you. That way the students can make several prints on each type of paper and get an idea which kind they prefer. Feel free to call me anytime between 9am and 4pm (mountain time) during weekdays and I'll take care of you. Our number is (877) 817-4320.

Cyanotypes like cheap paper. Try inkjet papers, watercolour papers (the cheaper acid-free but not buffered ones work well). And if it doesn't work well the first time, try soaking it in a 2%(2g/100ml) citric acid or vinegar (vinegar is about 5% acidity so just mix 50:50 with water), let it try completely, coat again and try again.
With cyanotypes I'd avoid any writing paper with obvious watermark textures because the solution tends to just puddle there and make the watermark really obvious.

Salt prints on the other hand need well sized paper. Paper is also a matter of taste and style. I would take up Dana Sullivan's offer - that will be a varied selection of good papers. And go to your local art supply shop and just look at paper and imagine pictures on it.

Try Arches Paltine, Fabrianno Artistico, Arches Aquarelle, and Strathmore 500 single weight.

Platine is a great multi purpose paper, but is sensitive to humidity.

Artitisco has a rough surface and an "antique white" or cream base.

Aquarelle comes in waterblocks, and works great with cyanotype - excellent D-max.

Strathmore 500 is inexpensive and benefits from additonal sizing. Some have reported "measles" on certain runs of this paper, though I haven't had that problem. Don't bother with the D/W 500 - it will delaminate in processing.

NWG