Gel Printing for Beginners: Unlocking Creativity with Colour and Texture

Gel printing is an exciting, beginner-friendly art technique that blends colour, texture, and creativity into a single process. Using a gel plate—a soft, flexible surface—you can easily create unique prints for cards, scrapbooking, or mixed-media art. Here’s how to get started!  


Materials You'll Need 

Acrylic paints and alcohol inks are perfect for gel printing. Acrylics offer bold, opaque coverage, while alcohol inks create translucent, vibrant effects. Other essentials include a brayer (roller), paper or fabric to print on, and tools to create texture.  


Creative Stencil Ideas

Stencils are a must for adding pattern and depth. You don’t need expensive ones—make your own! Cut shapes from card stock, repurpose plastic packaging, or use household items like lace, leaves, or bubble wrap for unique patterns.  


How to Gel Print 

1. Squeeze a small amount of acrylic paint onto the gel plate and spread it with a brayer.  

2. Add alcohol ink for pops of colour.  

3. Lay a stencil or textured object on top, then press your paper onto the plate. Peel it off to reveal your print!  


Experiment with layering, colour mixing, and mark-making to develop your style. Gel printing is forgiving and full of surprises—perfect for artists of all skill levels. Dive in and start creating!














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