How to Frame Cyanotypes

How to frame cyanotypes is something I get asked all the time. Framing art can be challenging but framing cyanotypes has its own set of challenges. Original cyanotypes made through the cyanotype process need to be framed differently than a cyanotype print which is a print or a copy of the original cyanotype artwork. Learn how to frame cyanotypes below!

Original cyanotypes are created using UV light. If they are constantly exposed to direct, bright UV light (sunlight) they will fade over time and can fade faster than other artwork that faces direct sunlight. While it’s good to always preserve artwork in glass that is UV protected it is especially important to frame cyanotypes using UV protected glass.

When hanging your original cyanotype artwork it is recommended not to place the prints in direct sunlight for this reason. Cyanotypes can handle daylight but do not hang them in a very sunny room or directly near a bright, large, and sunny window.

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how to frame cyanotypes - wheat cyanotype by Jackie Partridge

If Your Original Cyanotype Artwork Does Fade:

You can try placing the cyanotype in a dark place, such as a cupboard or drawer for example, for a few days. If a small amount of air is there they should return to their original blue colour.

Cyanotypes are not recommended for rooms subject to high humidity such as kitchens and bathrooms either. The humidity can affect the paper and damage the print especially if the artwork is not properly framed.

Black Eyed Susan Cyanotype 1

CA$50.00

Tips for How to Frame Cyanotypes

You should frame cyanotypes in the traditional way with a solid frame and matted so that the print doesn't touch the glass and there is a small amount of oxygen within the frame. This helps the blue colour from fading over time. Float mounting can also work as long as the print doesn't come into direct contact with the glass.

Using UV resistant glass will help to prevent some fading over time but do remember not to hang your original cyanotype in a place that has direct bright sunlight or a place with high humidity.

I hope you found these tips helpful for how to frame cyanotypes. If you purchase a cyanotype of mine I would love for you to send me a photo of it framed and hanging in your house.