This method of image making is one of my favourites. Not only is it super simple, but it produces instant excellent prints.
Photo A below is an example of the outcomes achievable:
The methodology behind eco printing is a simple one. You will need:
- Watercolour paper.
- Leaves/plants and foliage (ensure what you pick up is not hazardous).
- Pot
- String
- Chicken wire / grid
- Two fairly big rocks
- White vinegar (optional)
Begin by layering paper and plants on top of each other, make sure the size of your paper stack fits into the pot you have.
When you’re happy with the size of your stack, layer the chicken grid/ wire on top and below the stack to flatten it. Secure the panels with some string, the tighter the better.
Place the pot on a hob, and put a flat rock inside, add your paper stack on top and flatten it with another heavy rock on top.
It sounds super strange, but the pressure of the rock creates great shapes and colours.
Fill the pot with water, until all the paper is covered. Add an optional cup of White vinegar to help with the colouration.
Turn the hob on and bring the water to a boil, once boiled turn the heat down and simmer the paper for roughly an hour.
Once done, allow all equipment to cool down. Remove the paper, cut the string holding the chicken wire off and let it dry overnight.
Ta -da, now you have a batch of awesome eco prints! Below are some of my own Eco prints created with the same methodology above.
Experimenting with digital -less photography can produce some very creative outcomes. Now that I have shared this first batch, I can alter the eco printing process and share if those results differ or not.
The Alternative Process 