DIY: Sunprints

When I was home on the Cape I really enjoyed having some time to be creative.  One of the 'projects' I brought was a Sunprints kit.  Creating them is really very simple, and the results are beautiful and sometimes unexpected.  You can easily create artwork for your home this way.

The full how-to is after the jump, and if you want to see more process photos and results check out my Pinterest board.

Step 1: Lay Sunprints paper on larger piece of cardboard for easy carrying.  I didn't do this in the beginning, but it makes the process much easier.
Step 2: Position object on sun print paper in the layout you want.
Step 3: Move Sunprints paper into direct sunlight.  If you want the most clear results try to do this during the middle when the sun is directly above.  If you want a more distorted effect you can achieve this by playing with where the shadows fall.

Step 4: Wait several minutes until the paper exposes.  You will know it's done when it turns white.  The stronger the sun, the faster it exposes.
Step 5: Rinse off in sink.  I found that when you rinsed the front side quickly and then focused on the back side the dye came off the most effectively.

Step 6: Lay flat to dry and you're done!

Try using lots of different materials - flowers, shells, rubber bands, leaves, and petals all make great designs but you can use anything.