Gelli Prints

A little information about Gelli Printing from Mehmet Ömür…

Gelli printing offers a playful and spontaneous approach to printmaking, encouraging artists to embrace unpredictability and happy accidents to create vibrant and expressive artworks. It’s a great technique for exploring textures, colors, and patterns in a freeform and enjoyable manner.

Gelli printing, also known as gel printing, is a printmaking technique that involves using a gel printing plate to create unique and spontaneous monoprints. The process is versatile, easy to learn, and does not require a printing press, making it accessible to artists of all skill levels. Here’s an overview of the gelli print process: 1. **Materials Needed**: – Gelli printing plate: A gelatin-like, reusable surface used for printing. – Acrylic paint: Water-based acrylic paints are commonly used for gelli printing. – Brayer: A roller used to apply paint to the gelli plate. – Paper: Use various types of paper, such as cardstock, watercolor paper, or deli paper. 2. **Preparing the Gelli Plate**: – Apply a thin layer of acrylic paint to the gelli plate using the brayer. You can use a single color or create patterns with multiple colors. – Experiment with different textures and mark-making tools (stencils, stamps, bubble wrap, etc.) to create interesting patterns on the gelli plate. 3. **Printing Process**: – Once you’re satisfied with the paint application and patterns on the gelli plate, place a piece of paper on top of the plate. – Gently press and smooth the paper onto the plate with your hands or a brayer to transfer the paint and create the print. – Peel back the paper to reveal the gelli print. Each print will be a unique monoprint due to the nature of the process. 4. **Layering and Experimentation**: – You can layer additional colors and textures on the gelli plate and continue printing on top of the existing prints to create depth and complexity in your artwork. – Experiment with different color combinations, stencils, and mark-making tools to explore various creative possibilities. 5. **Finishing Touches**: – Allow the prints to dry completely before further embellishing them with other art mediums like pens, markers, or colored pencils. – Trim or mount the prints as desired to display or incorporate them into your art projects.

Source: https://www.iprintedthat.com/what-is-gelli-printing