Gel printing, also known as gel plate printing, is a creative form of printmaking in which you apply paint or ink to a flexible gel plate and then transfer it onto paper. You do not need a printing press, making the technique very accessible for beginners.

With a gel printing plate, a brayer and some paint, you can create colourful prints, patterns and backgrounds for card making, art journaling, scrapbooking and mixed media. Many gel prints are monoprints: unique impressions that can never be reproduced in exactly the same way.

In this guide, you will discover what gel printing is, what monoprinting means, which materials you need and how the basic technique works.

What is gel printing?

Gel printing is a printmaking technique in which you apply paint or ink to a flexible gel printing plate, also known as a gel plate. You can then use stencils, stamps or other materials to create patterns and textures in the paint. By placing paper onto the gel plate and gently pressing it down, the paint is transferred to the paper.

Every print can turn out differently. You can experiment with different colours, layers, abstract patterns and natural textures. This freedom to experiment is what makes gel printing so popular for mixed media, art journaling, card making, scrapbooking and collage.

A well-known type of gel printing plate is the Gel Press, but the technique itself is generally referred to as gel printing or gel plate printing.

What is the difference between gel printing and monoprinting?

Gel printing and monoprinting are often mentioned together, but they do not mean exactly the same thing. Gel printing is the technique of using a gel plate to create a print. A monoprint is the unique result of this type of printmaking process.

Monoprinting is all about creating an impression that cannot be reproduced in exactly the same way. The amount of paint, patterns, textures and colours varies slightly every time, giving each print its own individual appearance.

With gel printing, you usually create a monoprint by applying paint to a gel printing plate, adding patterns with a stencil or texture material and then pressing paper onto the plate. Sometimes some paint remains on the plate, allowing you to create a second, lighter print.

In short: gel printing is the technique, while a monoprint is the unique print you create with it.

Would you like to make your own monoprint step by step? Take a look at our guide How do you use Gel Press?

Is gel printing a form of printmaking?

Yes, gel printing is a form of printmaking, the general term for techniques in which an image, pattern or layer of paint is transferred from one surface to paper or another material.

Traditional forms of printmaking sometimes use printing plates and a printing press. With gel printing, you use a flexible gel plate and do not need a press, making it easy to try the technique at home.

Apply paint to the gel plate, add patterns or textures if desired and then transfer the design onto paper. This makes it easy to experiment with printmaking without a printing press.

Gel printing is therefore an accessible way to discover monoprinting and other creative printmaking techniques.

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 first apply a thin layer of paint to the gel plate. Use a brayer to spread the paint evenly across the surface. You can then use stencils, stamps or texture materials to create patterns in the paint.

Next, place a sheet of paper onto the gel printing plate and gently rub it down. When you lift the paper from the plate, the paint is transferred and your unique gel print or monoprint is revealed.

Would you like to make a monoprint with Gel Press yourself? Take a look at our detailed step-by-step guide 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.

What is printmaking?

Printmaking is a general term for techniques in which an image or layer of paint is transferred from one surface onto another, such as paper. Gel printing is an accessible form of printmaking that uses a flexible gel plate and does not require a traditional printing press.

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.

Can you make a monoprint with a gel plate?

Yes. Apply paint to a gel printing plate, add patterns or textures if desired, then press paper onto the plate. Every print will be different. Take a look at our Gel Press guide for the complete step-by-step process.

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 form of printmaking that allows you to create unique prints without a printing press. With a gel plate, acrylic paint, a brayer and paper, you can start gel printing straight away and experiment with colours, patterns and textures.

Every gel print has its own character and can be used for card making, art journaling, scrapbooking, collage and mixed media. Would you like to try the technique yourself? Follow our step-by-step guide and learn how to make a monoprint with Gel Press.