Gelli Plate Printing for Beginners: How to Use a Gelli Plate for Scrapbooking, Journals and Mixed Media

If you love mixed media, art journalling, scrapbooking, or creating your own unique backgrounds, then chances are you've heard of a Gelli Plate (sometimes called a Gel Press Plate).

They are one of my favourite tools for creating colourful, layered backgrounds that can be used on scrapbook layouts, junk journals, cards, tags, mixed media projects, and so much more.

The best part? No two prints are ever exactly the same!

What is a Gelli Plate?

A Gelli Plate is a soft, flexible printing plate that allows you to create one-of-a-kind prints using acrylic paints, stencils, stamps, texture tools, and paper.

Simply apply paint to the plate, add texture or patterns, then transfer the design onto paper or fabric.

The result is a beautifully textured print full of layers and interest.

While you can use almost any acrylic paint, I've found that artist-quality paints often produce stronger colours and smoother prints. That said, if you're just getting started, use whatever paint you already have in your stash and have a play.

Different paint brands and paint thicknesses will all create slightly different results, which is part of the fun!

Why You'll Love Gelli Plate Printing

Gelli Plate printing is perfect for:

• Creating scrapbook backgrounds

• Junk journal pages

• Handmade cards

• Tags and embellishments

• Art journals

• Mixed media projects

• Collage papers

• Fabric printing

It's a fantastic way to use up leftover paint and experiment with colour combinations without worrying about perfection.

How to Use a Gelli Plate with Stencils

One of the easiest ways to start Gelli Plate printing is with stencils.

Step 1

Place your Gelli Plate on a flat surface and apply a thin layer of acrylic paint.

Use a brayer (roller) to spread the paint evenly across the plate.

Step 2

Lay your stencil onto the wet paint.

Step 3

Place your paper over the stencil and gently press down using your hands, a brayer, or even an old gift card.

Think of it as creating a little sandwich:

Gelli Plate → Stencil → Paper

Step 4

Lift the paper and reveal your print.

Step 5

Keep adding layers using different stencils, colours, and textures.

This is where the magic happens. Every layer adds more interest and every print becomes completely unique.

Don't forget to keep a spare sheet of paper nearby to clean excess paint from your brayer. Those "clean-up prints" often turn out to be some of the best backgrounds!

How to Use a Gelli Plate with Stamps

Stamps are another great way to create interesting patterns and textures.

Step 1

Apply a thin layer of acrylic paint to your Gelli Plate.

Step 2

Press your stamps directly into the wet paint.

This removes paint from the surface and creates the stamped design.

Step 3

Place your paper onto the plate and press firmly.

Step 4

Lift the paper to reveal your print.

You can combine both stamping and stencilling on the same print to create beautiful layered effects.

Can You Make Your Own Gelli Plate?

Yes, you can!

A few years ago at one of our retreats we experimented with making homemade Gelli Plates, and they were surprisingly easy to create.

Homemade Gelli Plate Recipe

For an approximately 8" x 10" plate you will need:

• 6 tablespoons gelatin powder

• 1½ cups cold water

• 1½ cups hot (almost boiling) water

Instructions

1. Mix the gelatin powder into the cold water until fully combined.

2. Gradually add the hot water while stirring continuously.

3. Stir until completely dissolved.

4. Pour into a flat tray or brownie pan.

5. Tap the container gently to remove any air bubbles.

6. Refrigerate for approximately one hour.

7. Remove and start printing.

While homemade plates are fun to experiment with, they won't last nearly as long as commercial Gelli Plates.

Pre-Made Gelli Plates

If you prefer a long-lasting option, pre-made Gelli Plates are available in a range of sizes, including:

• 5" x 7"

• 6" x 6"

• 8" x 10"

• 12" x 14"

The larger plates are fantastic for scrapbook layouts, while the smaller sizes are perfect for cards, tags, journals, and embellishments.

How to Clean Your Gelli Plate

Cleaning your plate is quick and easy.

Simply wash it with warm water and a small amount of mild soap.

Baby wipes can also be useful for removing leftover paint residue.

One important thing to remember:

Avoid using permanent inks and dyes.

The gel surface can absorb these products, causing staining that may be difficult or impossible to remove.

How to Store Your Gelli Plate

Proper storage will help your Gelli Plate last for years.

Rule #1: Store It Flat

Always store your plate flat, either horizontally or vertically.

Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it or allowing it to hang over the edge of a shelf, as this may distort its shape.

Rule #2: Avoid Absorbent Materials

Never store your Gelli Plate between paper towels, cardboard, or other absorbent materials.

These can draw oils from the plate and cause it to deteriorate over time.

I like using clear plastic transparencies as protective sheets.

Rule #3: Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight

Avoid storing your plate near windows or areas that receive direct sunlight.

Excessive heat can affect the surface and reduce the life of the plate.

My Storage Solution

I don't use my Gelli Plates as often as I'd like, so mine live on a shelf in my craft studio.

I keep all my Gelli Plate supplies together, including:

• Gelli Plates

• Brayers

• Stencils

• Stamps

• Colour wheel

• Printing papers

My larger plate is stored in a tin, while the smaller plates are kept flat in a storage container with transparency sheets between them.

Final Thoughts

If you've never tried Gelli Plate printing before, I highly recommend giving it a go.

It's one of those techniques that looks complicated but is actually incredibly relaxing and fun once you start experimenting.

Whether you're creating backgrounds for scrapbook layouts, making collage papers for junk journals, or simply playing with colour and texture, a Gelli Plate opens up endless creative possibilities.

And remember—there's no right or wrong way to do it. Sometimes the most unexpected prints turn out to be your favourites!

Have you tried Gelli Plate printing before? I'd love to hear about your favourite techniques and tips in the comments below.

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