Gelli Plate Printing – A Guide to This Creative Printmaking Technique

If you’re looking for a relaxing, creative, and experimental art form, a gelli plate printing class in Hampshire is a perfect place to start. This modern printmaking technique is beginner-friendly, highly expressive, and full of unexpected results.

Here, we’ll explore what gelli plate printing is, how it works, and why it has become such a popular medium.

What is Gelli Plate Printing?

Gelli plate printing is a form of monoprinting that uses a soft, reusable gel surface instead of a traditional printing press. Acrylic paint is applied to the plate, then lifted using paper and textures to create layered, expressive prints.

Every print is completely unique, making it ideal for experimentation and creativity.

It's perfect for beginners looking to try a new craft workshop or art class as it requires no prior experience, it produces instant, satisfying results, and encourages experimentation without pressure!

What You'll Learn in a Workshop

In a typical gelli plate printing workshop, you will explore:

Layering colour and texture

Using stencils, foliage, and objects for patterns

Building composition step by step

Creating finished prints to take home

Each session is designed to be relaxed, playful, and inspiring.

some creative uses for gelli prints

Once you’ve created your prints, they can be used in many ways such as collage artwork, art journaling, greeting cards, mixed media pieces and decorative prints.

Final Thoughts

Gelli plate printing is more than just another art technique, it’s a way to explore creativity without rules. It encourages freedom, experimentation, and the joy in making - which we believe is what art is all about!

If you’re based in Hampshire and want to try something new, a gelli plate printing workshop is a great place to start. Our art school is located with easy access from Winchester, Southampton, Portsmouth, and the surrounding areas.