Gel printing is a creative printing technique that allows you to make unique prints with paint, ink, paper and a gel printing plate. You do not need a printing press, which makes gel printing very accessible for beginners. With a gel plate, a brayer and some paint, you can quickly create colourful prints, backgrounds and patterns for cards, art journaling, scrapbooking and mixed media.

In this blog, you will learn what gel printing is, what the difference is between gel printing and monoprinting, and which materials you need to get started.

What is gel printing?

Gel printing is a way of printing where you apply paint or ink to a flexible gel plate. You then create patterns, textures or colour gradients in the paint layer and print them onto paper. Because you work directly from the gel plate, every print turns out differently.

The technique is often used by makers who enjoy experimenting freely. You can work with bright colours, soft shades, abstract shapes, natural textures or clear patterns. This makes gel printing a great fit for creative hobbies such as mixed media, art journaling, card making, scrapbooking and collage.

What is the difference between gel printing and monoprinting?

Gel printing and monoprinting are often mentioned together. That makes sense, because with gel printing you usually create a monoprint: a unique print that cannot be recreated in exactly the same way.

Monoprinting is all about making one original print. With gel printing, you use a gel printing plate as the base for this. You apply paint, add patterns or texture if desired, and then make a print on paper. Sometimes you can make a second, lighter print with the paint that remains on the plate.

In short: gel printing is the technique, while monoprinting is often the result.

Why is gel printing suitable for beginners?

Gel printing is popular with beginners because you do not need much to get started. You do not have to be able to draw or paint precisely, and you do not need complicated equipment. The fun thing about gel printing is that unexpected effects often create the most beautiful results.

A small amount of paint, a sheet of paper and a simple texture can already be enough to create an interesting print. This makes gel printing a great technique for anyone who wants to start creative printing in an accessible way.

What do you need to start gel printing?

For your first gel printing project, you need a few basic materials:

• A gel printing plate, such as Gel Press;
• Acrylic paint or suitable ink;
• A brayer or paint roller;
• Paper, cardstock or mixed media paper;
• Stencils, stamps or texture materials;
• Kitchen paper or a damp cloth;
• Optionally, a craft mat or protective mat.

You can start small and add extra materials later. Think of stencils, leaves, lace, bubble wrap, stamps or other materials that allow you to create texture in the paint layer.

In short: How does gel printing work?

With gel printing, you apply a thin layer of paint to the gel plate. Then you spread the paint with a brayer and, if desired, add patterns with stencils, stamps or texture materials. Next, place paper onto the plate, rub it gently and lift it off again. The paint transfers onto the paper and creates your print.

This is the basic principle of gel printing. Would you like to know exactly how to do this step by step with Gel Press? Read the full instructions on our page: How to use Gel Press?

What can you make with gel printing?

With gel printing, you can make all kinds of creative paper craft projects. The prints are especially useful as backgrounds or decorative paper.

You can use them for:

• Handmade cards;
• Art journal pages;
• Scrapbook layouts;
• Labels and tags;
• Collage paper;
• Mixed media projects;
• Decorative backgrounds;
• Creative paper layers.

Because every print is different, your project instantly gets a personal, handmade look.

Getting started with Gel Press

Gel Press is a well-known brand for gel printing plates. With a Gel Press plate, you can easily start gel printing because you can work directly with paint, paper and a brayer. The plate is flexible and suitable for making unique backgrounds, monoprints and patterns.

For beginners, it is useful to start with simple combinations. For example, use one or two colours of acrylic paint, a stencil and sturdy paper. Once you are familiar with the basics, you can start experimenting more with layers, texture and different materials.

Tips for your first gel printing project

Start with a small amount of paint. A thin layer often gives a clearer print than a thick layer. Also use paper that is sturdy enough to absorb paint, such as cardstock or mixed media paper.

Work calmly and let the result surprise you. Gel printing does not have to be perfect. Small colour differences, unexpected patterns and leftover prints are exactly what make the technique interesting.

Would you like to know more about materials? Then also read the blog about which paint to use with Gel Press.

Frequently asked questions about gel printing

What is gel printing?

Gel printing is a creative printing technique where you apply paint or ink to a gel printing plate and print it onto paper. This allows you to create unique prints, backgrounds and patterns.

Is gel printing the same as monoprinting?

Gel printing is a technique that is often used to create monoprints. A monoprint is a unique print that cannot be recreated in exactly the same way.

Is gel printing suitable for beginners?

Yes, gel printing is very suitable for beginners. You do not need a printing press and can get started with a gel plate, paint, a brayer and paper.

What do you need for gel printing?

For gel printing, you need a gel printing plate, paint or ink, a brayer and paper. Stencils, stamps and texture materials are useful for adding patterns and effects.

Can you use gel printing for card making?

Yes, gel printing is ideal for card making. You can use the prints as backgrounds, decorative paper or as part of a mixed media card.

What is a good gel printing plate for beginners?

A Gel Press plate is a good choice for beginners, because it allows you to experiment easily with paint, paper, stencils and texture materials.

Get started with gel printing

Gel printing is an accessible way to make unique prints and backgrounds. With a gel printing plate, paint, a brayer and paper, you can start straight away. Use your prints for cards, art journaling, scrapbooking or mixed media and discover how fun it is to create new effects.