Mixed Media: Gel Press printing plate techniques
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Are you looking for a fun and creative way to add unique textures and layers to your mixed media projects? A Gel Press Gel Printing Plate (Check it out on Amazon) is an essential tool for artists, crafters, and memory keepers who love experimenting with color and texture. This versatile tool allows you to create monoprints without a press, making it perfect for art journaling, scrapbooking, and DIY projects.
What is a Gel Press Gel Printing Plate?
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A Gel Press Plate is a soft, flexible, reusable surface made from a gel-like material that holds paint and ink to create one-of-a-kind prints. Unlike traditional printmaking, it doesn’t require a printing press—just a brayer, some paint, and paper!
Essential Supplies to Get Started
To use a Gel Press Plate, you’ll need:
• Gel Press Plate (Shop on Amazon)
• Acrylic Paints (Check out these options)
• Brayer (Roller) (Find one here)
• Stencils and Texture Tools (Great options here)
• Mixed Media or Copy Paper (See options)
Technique 1: Basic Layer Pulls
This is often the first technique artists learn—and for good reason.
Start by applying a thin layer of acrylic paint to your gel plate using a brayer. Lay your paper on top, gently press, and pull the print. The result is a simple, solid background that’s perfect for layering later.
Creative Tip: Use two similar colors on the plate and lightly blend them for a subtle gradient effect.
Technique 2: Stencil and Masking Layers
Stencils are a gel printer’s best friend. After rolling paint onto your plate, place a stencil on top and pull a print. This creates negative space where the stencil blocked the paint.
You can then add another layer of paint and pull a second print—often called a “ghost print”—which captures the leftover paint and stencil shape.
Why this works: Stencil layering adds visual interest without overwhelming the page, making it ideal for memory keeping backgrounds.
Technique 3: Texture Impressions
Texture is where gel printing really shines. Try pressing textured objects directly into the paint before pulling your print. Popular options include:
- Leaves or flowers
- Bubble wrap
- Corrugated cardboard
- Lace or fabric
- Rubber stamps (uninked)
Each texture creates a unique impression, and no two prints will ever look the same.
Memory Keeping Idea: Use botanical textures for seasonal spreads or nature-inspired journal pages.
Technique 4: Ghost Prints (Don’t Skip These!)
After pulling a print, don’t clean your plate right away. Add a fresh piece of paper and pull again. These lighter, layered prints—called ghost prints—are often the most beautiful.
Ghost prints are perfect for:
- Writing backgrounds
- Collage foundations
- Vintage or grungy aesthetics
They’re subtle, soft, and full of depth.
Technique 5: Image Transfers
Image transfers add a storytelling element to gel prints. Use magazine photos, laser-printed images, or photocopies. Lay the image face-down onto wet paint, rub gently, and carefully peel it away.
The result is a slightly distressed image embedded into your print—perfect for art journaling and mixed media storytelling.
Note: Laser prints work best; inkjet prints usually won’t transfer cleanly.
Technique 6: Using Deli Paper for Layer Building
Deli paper is a secret weapon in gel printing. Print onto deli paper, let it dry, then collage it onto journal pages or canvas later. Because it’s semi-transparent, it blends beautifully into layered backgrounds.
This technique is especially useful if you like to create prints in batches and use them over time.
How to Use Gel Prints After Printing
Gel prints are incredibly versatile. Once dry, you can:
- Cut them into collage pieces
- Use them as art journal backgrounds
- Add them to scrapbook or memory keeping layouts
- Turn them into handmade cards or tags
- Layer them under photos or journaling
Think of your gel prints as creative building blocks rather than finished pieces.
Embracing Imperfection and Play
One of the best things about gel press printing plate techniques is that there are no mistakes—only layers. Paint that didn’t work? Print over it. A pattern you don’t love? Add another texture. Every pull teaches you something new.
Gel printing encourages play, curiosity, and letting go of expectations—qualities that make mixed media art so rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Gel press printing plates are an incredible tool for artists who love texture, layers, and creative freedom. Whether you’re creating backgrounds for memory keeping, experimenting in an art journal, or building a stash of collage papers, these techniques will keep your creative practice fresh and inspiring.
If you haven’t already, set aside an afternoon, pull out your paints, and let yourself explore. The magic of gel printing isn’t just in the final print—it’s in the process itself.
Creative Ways to Use Gel Prints
• Art Journaling: Add printed pages as backgrounds in your art journal.
• Scrapbooking: Use your prints as decorative paper for layouts.
• Card Making: Cut prints into shapes for handmade greeting cards.
• Collage & Mixed Media Art: Tear or cut prints and layer them for a textured collage effect.
Final Thoughts
The Gel Press Plate (Find it on Amazon) is a must-have tool for any creative enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, experimenting with gel printing can add depth and originality to your projects. Give it a try, and let your creativity flow!
See this post about Exploring Mixed Media for additional information!
Would you like to see a step-by-step tutorial with photos or videos? Let me know in the comments!
