During winter in this part of world it’s a bit difficult to produce Cyanotype prints. Although using a UV box it makes it possible. Nonetheless they’re quite expensive to purchase one. My little project for Christmas artwork workshop, I’m going to try using a Nail Dryer. Yep a nail dryer!
These devices emit UV light albeit its limited to a small area. It should be enough for making Photograms or 10x15cm prints for Christmas card. That’s my goal (if doesn’t work out I guess one of my lovely daughters shall receive a new gift for Christmas!).
Experimenting with the mini UV source
Today the Nail Dryer arrived. It has the added advantage of a timer built-in 30/60/90 seconds. I’m not sure at this stage of course how along the exposure will take, if it works at all.
I also looked into this project using UV tubes in an old flat bed scanner – https://www.instructables.com/id/The-return-of-the-dead-flatbed-scanner/.
(If the Nail Dryer works, I guess I can build the same project will LED UV modules.)
The results of the experience proved the light source indeed work very well. Even with a exposure of just 60 seconds! if produced good Cyanotype. However there’s a catch!
The light source isn’t exactly even with the shape of the domed nail dryer makes the image out of focus in places. It’s not really stable enough to ensure an even print! But it doesn’t work. The question is it usable or not?
Building a UV LED light box for Cyanotype and lumen printing
https://fstop138.berrange.com/2016/09/building-a-uv-led-light-box-for-cyanotype-and-lumen-printing/
Christmas Clipart
http://olddesignshop.com/2014/12/a-christmas-menu-free-vintage-clip-art/