Emulsion lift

Emulsion lift images are created by literally peeling away a polaroid image from its original white backing.

These are some of the images I have found:

The creasing created after peeling away the photograph can be adjusted to fit the style of the image. Take this one for example, the edges have been slightly torn to fit the 'vintage' type of image.

Creases can also be adjusted to fit the flow of the image; in this image, the creases have been moved to fit the flow if the water. 

EMULSION LIFT: HOW TO

1. Take your polaroid print and set it aside for 24 hours

2. Fill a tray with boiling water (from the kettle). Fill a separate tray with warm tap water.

3. Take your cured (dry) polaroid and immerse it print-side-up in the boiling water for 2 to 4 minutes. When small bubbles appear on the surface of the print, then it is ready for the next step. *Keep in mind that different film types require different periods of time in the hot water bath.

4. Transfer the print from the hot water bath (after about 4 minutes or so) to the warm water bath and gently push the emulsion layer from the edges of the print to the centre using your fingers or a soft paintbrush. Carefully lift the emulsion and peel it away from the backing. 

5. Next, take a piece of card (bigger than your polaroid print) and gently slide it under your polaroid and lift it out of the warm water. The emulsion is very fragile at this point to be careful not to tear the image.

6. You can begin manipulating the image by purposely causing wrinkles and tears to add texture and interest to the image. When you are satisfied with the placement and manipulation of the image, let it dry overnight.

7. Once the image(s) is flat and dry, you can manipulate it further by applying watercolours, pastel etc. to enhance the image.

My emulsion lifts:

Before and after

Before and after