Gelli Arts 5" X 7" Gel Printing Plate

Gel Printing Plates

Gel printing plates from Gelli Arts are innovative tools used in printmaking and mixed media art. These plates are made of a soft, gel-like material that is durable, reusable, and easy to work with. Here are some key features and uses of gel printing plates:

• Soft and Flexible: Gel printing plates are soft and flexible, which allows artists to create prints with intricate details and textures. The pliable surface also makes it easy to transfer images and textures onto paper or fabric.
• Reusable: Unlike traditional printmaking plates, gel printing plates are reusable. They can be cleaned with soap and water after each use, allowing artists to create multiple prints without the need for additional plates.
• Non-Toxic: Gel printing plates are typically made from non-toxic materials, making them safe to use for artists of all ages. They are also latex-free, which is beneficial for individuals with latex allergies.
• Versatile: Gel printing plates can be used with various types of ink, including acrylic paint, fabric paint, and printing ink. They can also be used with a wide range of printing techniques, such as monoprinting, stamping, stenciling, and layering.
• Easy to Use: Gel printing plates are easy to use, even for beginners. Simply apply a thin layer of ink or paint to the plate, place a piece of paper or fabric on top, and use your hands or a brayer to transfer the image onto the surface.
• Create Unique Prints: One of the main advantages of gel printing plates is their ability to create unique prints with each impression. Artists can experiment with different colours, textures, and techniques to create one-of-a-kind artworks.
• Suitable for Mixed Media: Gel printing plates are a versatile tool for mixed media artists. They can be used to create backgrounds, textures, and embellishments for mixed media projects, such as art journal pages, collages, and handmade cards.

Overall, gel printing plates from Gelli Arts are a valuable addition to any artist's toolkit, offering endless possibilities for creative expression in printmaking and mixed media art.

How To Use Gel Printing Plates

Gel printing plates are versatile tools used in printmaking and mixed media art. Here's a general guide on how to use a gel printing plate in art projects:

• Prepare Your Workspace: Start by setting up a clean and flat work surface. Gather your gel printing plate, acrylic paints, brayer (roller), paper, stencils, textures, and any other materials you want to use in your project.
• Apply Paint to the Plate: Squeeze small amounts of acrylic paint directly onto the gel printing plate. Use a brayer to spread the paint evenly across the surface of the plate, covering it completely. You can use one colour or multiple colours, depending on the desired effect.
• Add Texture and Designs: Before the paint dries, use various tools and materials to create textures and designs on the painted surface of the gel printing plate. You can use stencils, texture plates, found objects, bubble wrap, leaves, string, or anything else that can create interesting patterns and textures.
• Create the Print: Once you're satisfied with the design on your gel printing plate, carefully place a piece of paper (or fabric) on top of the painted surface. Gently press down on the paper with your hands or a brayer to transfer the paint from the plate onto the paper.
• Lift the Print: Carefully lift the paper from the gel printing plate to reveal the printed image. You'll see a unique and colourful print created by the paint and textures on the plate.
• Repeat the Process: You can repeat the printing process multiple times, creating layers and adding new colours and textures with each print. Experiment with different combinations of colours, textures, and techniques to create interesting and dynamic prints.
• Clean and Maintain the Plate: After each print, clean the gel printing plate with soap and water to remove any remaining paint and residue. Store the plate flat or vertically in a cool, dry place to prevent damage and deformation.
• Finish and Display: Once your prints are dry, you can further embellish them with additional layers, mixed media elements, or framing. Your gel prints can be used in various art projects, such as collages, art journals, cards, and more.

Using a gel printing plate allows for endless experimentation and creativity in printmaking and mixed media art. Have fun exploring different techniques and creating unique prints with this versatile tool!