I have been doing a lot of gelli printing lately – that’s using acrylic paints on a gel plate – a type of monoprinting. During our most recent lockdown it’s kept me happily away from the street. I have been working on printing onto fabric which is a bit different to printing on paper.
Some of the various paints I use for printing.
I trained in screen printing at art school which is similar, but not quite the same as gelli printing. While I find gelli printing has some limitations, it also has many pluses. I like that it’s so simple to set up and print and I certainly don’t mind not having to transfer images to my screen (a multi-step process which was my least favourite part of printing).
I am also using up a whole stack of acrylic paints, some better than others. By also using a textile base (a clear paste) with the acrylic paints, these paints are easier to use on fabric and give the fabric a better “hand” that is make it more flexible and feel better after printing.
The ‘studio’ at the end of my kitchen. Inking up my plate with my rag for excess paint on the side.
I am focused on using the simplest of marks and materials for my prints. Most of my fabric is upcycled from clothes or old bed sheets.
I am really happy about the colour combinations I am achieving in my prints, particularly when I make simple two colour prints.
In addition to all this printing I also decided to revive my, somewhat moribund YouTube channel by uploading some introductory videos on printing on fabric with a gelli plate. You can find my channel here.
leonieandrews 
I finally had time to watch your videos – wonderful! I’ve never done gelli printing but it looks like something that would suit me, so I will investigate a bit more. Thanks Leonie!
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Thanks Anna, I warn you gelli printing it’s very addictive. However if you do want to try it you should definitely check out the plates for sale online, the prices in the shops here are ludicrous.
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Thanks for the tip Leonie – I have been looking at prices and been a bit shocked! But I will persist! Is there an outlet you would recommend for buying them?
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I will see if I can find the one I sourced mine from most recently and let you know.
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I just sent the link to you via FB message.
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Thank you! I’ve put in an order!
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How fun! I haven’t used the gelli print on fabric. Off to look at your channel!
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Thank you. It works in a a similar way. There are a few differences but for the most part the techniques are easily transferred from paper to fabric.
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Goodness, how come I’ve been missing your posts? I watched your Gelli plate video the other day. I will have a go!
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I hope you enjoy it. I find it completely addictive. It’s so simple and even though I have my silkscreens and access to a print workshop, I can’t get enough gelli printing.😄
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