What Is a Gelli Printing Plate? And What Can You Make With It?
Gelli plate printing completely changed the way I make art. But I admit, when I first purchased my Gelli plates, I was incredibly confused.
Now, after seven years of experimenting and studying, I’d love to make this process less daunting for you!
If you’re ready to dive into gelli monoprinting, this guide will help you learn the basics. If you want to make modern art or pop art but don’t want to screen print, this might just be your new favorite art supply! Its versatility make it a favorite among artists and art teachers alike.
So… are you ready to get addicted to your new favorite medium?
Supplies You’ll Need to Begin Gelli Printmaking:
As you get deeper into gel plate printing, you’ll probably want expand your supply stash. But to get started, here are the basics you’ll need:
Gel Printing Plate: Invest in a high-quality gel printing plate in the size that suits your projects. Gelli Arts makes excellent plates in multiple sizes, and while they’re a bit pricey, they last years. Bonus: they come in clamshell packaging that doubles as storage (don’t toss it!).
Acrylic Paints: Affordable, bold acrylic paints are perfect for beginners. Printing inks also work well for smoother layering. For photo transfers, I’ve tested many paints and only a couple consistently work (one for laser printouts and one for magazine transfers). I’ve linked my top six favorites below.
Brayer: A soft rubber brayer spreads paint evenly across the plate without streaks.
Paper: Printer paper and deli paper are my go-to choices. Tea bag paper gives a fabric-like finish for collages. Avoid watercolor paper, it absorbs too much paint.
Fabric: Muslin works beautifully for fabric printing, but experiment with thin cottons for custom textiles.
Stencils, Texture Plates & Found Objects: Bubble wrap, feathers, string, stencils all add amazing textures. If you love to experiment, you are going to LOVE this!
Perfect Placement Tool: Helps line up layered prints. There’s a mini version for kids and a larger version for more precision.
Vinyl-Backed Tablecloth: Roll paint onto the flannel backing — it removes paint from your brayer and keeps your workspace tidy.
What Is a Gelli Plate?
A gelli plate is a flexible, squishy surface similar to gelatin or Jell-O. With proper care, they can last for years. A gel printing plate works a bit like pressing newspaper onto silly putty: add paint, textures, and paper, and you’ll get a beautiful, one-of-a-kind print.
Most gelli plates are made from a blend of polymers and oils. Yes, you can make your own, but I recommend buying a high-quality store-bought version if you plan to print regularly.
What Is Gelli Printing?
Gelli printing is a form of monoprinting that doesn’t require a copy machine, screen printer, or risograph. Instead, you transfer paint from the plate to paper or fabric. Each monoprint is completely unique, which is why artists love it.
How Gelli Printing Works
There are endless ways to print with a gelli plate, but here’s the basic process:
Apply Paint or Ink – Spread a thin, even layer across your plate.
Add Texture – Use stencils, stamps, or found objects for unique designs.
Transfer – Lay paper or fabric over the plate and press to reveal your print.
Ghost Print – Use a second sheet of paper to lift the leftover paint. (Sometimes, ghost prints are even better than the first!)
Why Artists Love Gelli Printing
Artists and teachers love gelli printing because it’s fast, forgiving, and requires very little setup or space. It’s also an incredible way to “play” and get into the creative zone.
Here’s why:
Playful unpredictability – You can plan, but the outcome is always a surprise.
Layering power – Build up multiple prints on one sheet of paper, or rescue “bad” prints by reworking them.
Image transfer – With practice, you can transfer magazine images or laser prints.
Creative freedom – Leaves, utensils, lace, feathers — anything can become a printing tool.
Instant gratification – Quick results, and the paint dries fast.
Constant discovery – Even after years of practice, you’ll keep learning new techniques.
Creative Uses for Gelli Prints
Once you start making prints, you’ll find endless uses for them:
Art Journals & Sketchbooks – Daily practice pieces to warm up creatively.
Cardmaking & Stationery – One-of-a-kind cards and envelopes.
Collage & Mixed Media – Cut, tear, or layer prints into larger works.
Fabric Printing – Print on muslin or thin cotton for custom textiles.
Wall Art – From bold pop art to delicate botanical prints.
Final Thoughts
Gelli printing is an incredibly versatile art form with endless possibilities. It can feel frustrating at first, but with practice (and high-quality paints), you’ll be framing your own prints in no time.
Ready to get started experimenting with your own gelli printing plate? Check out some of my favorite projects:
Learn how to print a beautiful ombre pattern with your Gelli plate
User your Gelli prints to create your very own junk journal
Ready to dive in? Click here for 35+ Gelli project ideas!
