Cyanotype: Printing with Sunlight

The sun is shining at full power – and in the Textile Lab, we know how to turn it into a creative tool. In this children’s cyanotype workshop, we will use sunlight to print plants, objects and shapes, and use them to decorate T-shirts.

Cyanotype is an old process of “photographing with sunlight”, developed in 1842 by scientist Sir John Herschel. The surface we want to print on is coated with a special mixture, selected objects or a photographic negative are placed on top, and everything is then exposed to sunlight. Where the light reaches the surface, the characteristic blue colour appears, while the objects leave behind bright impressions.

In the workshop, you will learn how to prepare a surface for cyanotype, how to choose interesting motifs, arrange them on a T-shirt and create a blue print with the help of light. The mentors will prepare the T-shirts for printing in advance, while another set of T-shirts will be used to learn how the coating process works, so that the whole technique is clear from start to finish.

You can bring interesting plants, leaves, crocheted pieces, semi-transparent objects or other small items you would like to print on your T-shirt. If you do not find anything suitable at home, no worries – we will also prepare some motifs for printing in the lab.

At the end of the workshop, you will take home your own T-shirt printed with sunlight, along with new knowledge about one of the most beautiful old photographic techniques.

In case of bad weather, the workshop will take place in the Textile Lab, where we will use an exposure table to develop the images.

Who is the workshop for?

The workshop is intended for children aged 10 to 15. No prior knowledge is required.

Does the workshop count as training?

No. The workshop does not count as training for independent use of the Textile Lab.

About the mentors

The workshop is led by Zala Hrastar and Karmen Gombač, mentors at Center Rog’s Textile Lab. In their work, they introduce participants to various textile techniques, from basic sewing to experimental fabric processes. They pay special attention to safe work, clear instructions and creative exploration of materials. They help children understand the technique through practice, experimentation and play.

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Participants meet 15 minutes before the start of the programme in the entrance hall of Center Rog. Please store your personal belongings in the lockers indicated by the mentors. Do not be late, as this disrupts the working process. In case of late arrival, we unfortunately cannot guarantee entry to the lab.

The programme is held in Slovenian, unless stated otherwise.

The programme is intended for children aged 10 to 15.

In case of cancellation, we will notify you two days before the planned start.

If you are unable to attend the programme, the fee is non-refundable and the date cannot be changed. You may transfer your participation to another person, provided you notify us at least 24 hours before the start at tekstil@center-rog.si.

We look forward to your company and creating together!