Experimental Cyanotype Workshop with Langdyke Countryside Trust
A relaxing, fun day exploring simple experimental techniques for cyanotype using wildflowers, near Helpston, Peterborough Cambs
Date and time
Location
Swaddywell Pit Nature Reserve
Stamford Road Peterborough PE6 7EL United KingdomRefund Policy
About this event
Experimental Cyanotype Printing Workshop
Join artists Sarah Lambert and Kathryn Parsons for a gentle, hands-on day of creativity and nature connection through the art of cyanotype printing—a magical, camera-less photographic process that uses sunlight to create striking Prussian-blue images.
The day begins with a guided nature walk at Swaddywell Nature Reserve, where you’ll forage for leaves, flowers, and grasses ideal for cyanotype printing. Sarah, a botanist and ecologist, will share her expertise on plant identification and advise on what to collect (and what to avoid).
After foraging, we’ll head to the cosy cabin at Torpel Manor Field Nature Reserve to begin printing. You’ll learn how to coat papers and fabric with cyanotype solution and experiment with both dry and wet techniques—adding your foraged plants and exposing them to sunlight (or UV lamps if it’s cloudy).
We’ll also play with creative enhancements using everyday materials like vinegar, turmeric, salt, paprika, coffee grounds, and even soap bubbles to produce colourful textures and effects. Expect surprising, beautiful results!
You'll leave with a collection of your own unique prints and a deeper appreciation for both the process and the plants around you.
No experience needed. All materials provided.
Please bring:
waterproof gloves
tweezers
a camera or phone
a bag or box to take your prints home
clothes and shoes suitable for the weather and walking on uneven ground
and a packed lunch.
Tea and coffee provided.
This workshop is aimed at adults. If you want to bring a child please contact us so we can consider whether it would be suitable for them. Thank you.
About the artists...
Kathryn Parsons is an artist, and has been Artist in Residence with Langdyke Countryside Trust since 2019. Through her work she uncovers and shares little know stories of place and nature. She is also a qualified teacher and loves leading creative gatherings that help others connect more deeply with their own creativity and with nature. www.kathrynparsons.co.uk
Sarah Lambert is a botanist, ecologist and photographer, and joined Kathryn as a Langdyke Artist in Residence in 2021. Sarah regularly leads wildlife holidays, events and workshops. She delights in sharing her knowledge with others and helping them get to know plants and wildlife.
Please note: the ticket fee will go to the artists to contribute towards running this workshop.
Frequently asked questions
Swaddywell is near the historic village of Helpston, in Cambridgeshire, UK. It's between Stamford and Peterborough. The nearest postcode is PE6 7EL. We will start at Swaddywell then travel to Torpel Nature Reserve where there is a cabin we can work in. You'll be sent a map nearer the time.
The Delaine Buses route between Bourne / Stamford / Peterborough go through Helpston. It's about 3 miles from Helpston to Swaddywell Nature Reserve. If you can get to Swaddywell we can arrange a lift to Torpel. Please check the bus timetable carefully, and let us know you'll need a lift.
It'll be a very slow, gentle walk for about an hour. The ground is uneven, grassy and sometimes muddy. There are slopes and gravel / stony areas. If that is not possible for you, you may miss out the walk and meet us at Torpel Nature Reserve where the eco-printing will happen (near Helpston).
There is a composting toilet, and a small kitchen area where we can boil a kettle and wash our hands.
It depends on the sheep! Yes, really! Hopefully we'll be able to park onsite, close to the cabin. Otherwise we'll park on West Street in Helpston and there will be a 5-10 minute walk along the pavement and across the reserve to get to the cabin (I'll send a map nearer the time).
If you have any questions please contact Kathryn on kparsonsart@btinternet.com
Shoes suitable for walking in a possibly muddy nature reserve where there are sheep. Clothes suitable for the weather. Long trousers are advised for walking on the reserve. There isn't any heating in the cabin.