The Photographer's Formulary Puddle Pusher, glass coating rod is excellent for coating paper with alternative process solutions.
Simply pull across paper using the handle mounted in the center of the rod. Coats evenly and uses less solution than brushing.
I started making cyanotypes along with lots of other people during the COVID 19 lockdown. Based on some YouTube videos, I decided that a puddle pusher was the best way to coat paper. I ordered one and, before I even got to use it, managed to lose it. I'm sure it's in my house somewhere, but since it hasn't turned up in the roughly 5 years that have passed, I decided to order another one. I generally coat using either a foam brush or, for more delicate surfaces, a hake brush. Though I'm generally pleased with the results, I wanted to get a more even and consistent coating with 100% coverage. That's what a puddle pusher is supposed to offer. However, there are a few non-negotiables that you need to keep in mind. First, you need to have your paper on a hard and totally flat surface. If there is any give under the paper, you're going to end up with thin spots in your emulsion or, even worse, areas with no coverage. Second, you need to lay down a fairly consistent line of emulsion. This requires both a steady hand and an easy-to-control applicator. First, I tried to use a syringe. Bad idea! I ended up squirting most of the emulsion onto a small area of the paper. While droppers are easier to control, most of them will not hold enough emulsion for an 8x10 cyanotype. Ultimate, I settled on a piece of glass tubing that is long enough to handle 2ml of emulsion. It is possible to get an even and consistent coat with a puddle pusher, but it is going to take a lot of practice. With cyanotype, the chemistry is relatively cheap. I would hate to be practicing with platinum/palladium emulsions, though. My main complaint about this puddle pusher, though, is the price. What you are getting is an 8" long glass tube with a glued on handle. If you want to give the puddle pusher technique a try, I'd suggest picking up a piece of 3/8" to 1/2" OD glass tubing and glue some sort of handle to it. If you can't be bothered with making your own, this Photographer's Formulary offering seems to be about all that's available.
A waste of money. Simple glass rod or brush works better and won’t break as easily.
