Gelli Plate Printing

Synopsis

Meet your dream plate and fall in love with a faster, friendlier approach to printmaking.

For artists and crafters who love the creative possibilities of monoprinting on gelatin but not the prep time, mess and inconvenience that comes with it, the Gelli Arts Gel Printing Plate is a dream come true! It's durable, reusable, stored at room temperature, and ready to get creative whenever you are. Simply apply paint with a soft rubber brayer, make your marks and pull your print. It's that simple! Wipe the plate down with a spritz of water and a paper towel, and you're ready to go again.

In this premier guide, artist Joan Bess--inventor of the concept for the Gelli plate--unleashes the fun through more than 50 step-by-step techniques. Create intriguing patterns using tools like sponges, textured rollers and homemade combs. Learn how to incorporate stencils and rubber stamps. Experiment with metallic paint, dimensional paint and gel medium. Become a texture-hunter, creating a wide world of effects using embossed papers, natural objects, rubber bands, lace, corrugated cardboard, metal tape, die cut letters...anything goes!

Even beginners can enjoy immediate gratification--just grab a textured surface, smoosh it into your painted Gelli plate, and you'll have a stack of amazing prints in no time. For experienced printmakers, the inspirations in these pages will push you to experiment, adapt, combine and layer. It's easy, fun and totally addicting!

Printmaking just got easier!

• Expert tips from the creator of the Gelli plate
• 50+ awesome step-by-step techniques
• Ideas for incorporating stamps and stencils, using ghost prints, salvaging uninspired prints, and more
• 26-page gallery shows the many wonderful ways artists are incorporating Gelli printing into their work

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Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Gelli Plate Printing

This chapter provides an overview of Gelli plate printing, its origins, and basic materials. It explains the unique capabilities of Gelli plates and their versatility for creating abstract and mixed-media artwork.

Real Example: A photo of a Gelli plate with acrylic paints and stencils shows the vibrant colors and textures that can be achieved with this printing technique.

Chapter 2: Making Your Own Gelli Plates

This chapter guides readers through the process of making their own Gelli plates using gelatin powder and water. It provides step-by-step instructions and tips for customizing plates with different sizes, thicknesses, and colors.

Real Example: A series of photos demonstrates the steps involved in making a Gelli plate, from measuring the ingredients to pouring the gelatin solution.

Chapter 3: Printing Basics

Chapter 3 covers the essential techniques of Gelli plate printing, including brayering, laying down papers, and pulling prints. It explains the different ways to transfer ink and paints to the plate and how to control the pressure and direction of the print.

Real Example: A video tutorial shows how to brayer ink onto a Gelli plate and lay down paper to create a print.

Chapter 4: Layering and Overprinting

This chapter explores the possibilities of layering multiple prints on top of each other. It explains how to register prints for alignment and how to use stencils and masks to create complex compositions.

Real Example: A series of prints demonstrate the effects of layering different colors and patterns on top of each other.

Chapter 5: Printing with Different Materials

Chapter 5 introduces a range of materials that can be used in conjunction with Gelli plate printing, such as fabrics, found objects, and printmaking inks. It explores the unique techniques and effects that can be achieved when experimenting with these materials.

Real Example: A photo of a printed fabric shows how Gelli plate printing can be used to create textile patterns.

Chapter 6: Advanced Techniques

This chapter covers more advanced techniques, such as relief carving, monoprinting, and photo transfer. It provides step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips for these more complex processes.

Real Example: A video tutorial demonstrates how to carve a relief design into a Gelli plate and print it.

Chapter 7: Inspiration and Ideas

Chapter 7 provides a gallery of inspiring Gelli plate prints by various artists. It showcases the diversity of styles and applications, from abstract compositions to representational landscapes.

Real Example: A collection of images highlights the different ways Gelli plate prints can be used as art, home decor, and mixed-media projects.