Gelli Plate printing with string

 

Creating prints with a gelli plate and string is an exciting and versatile printing technique that artists and craft enthusiasts can use to produce unique, textured designs. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to use a gelli plate to make prints using string:

Materials Needed:

• Gelli plate (a gel printing plate)
• Acrylic paint
• Brayer (roller)
• String (various thicknesses and types for different effects)
• Paper (any type suitable for printing, such as printer paper, cardstock, or art paper)
• Palette or disposable plate for rolling out paint
• Cleanup tools (paper towels, baby wipes)

Steps to Create String Prints with a Gelli Plate:

1. Prepare Your Workspace:

• Cover your work area with newspapers or a disposable tablecloth to protect surfaces.
• Lay out all materials within easy reach to facilitate a smooth workflow.

2. Set Up the Gelli Plate:

• Place your Gelli plate on a flat surface. If this is your first time using the plate, gently wash it with mild soap and warm water, then dry it thoroughly to remove any residue or dust.

3. Apply Paint to the Plate:

• Squeeze a small amount of acrylic paint onto the side of the gelli plate or on a palette.
• Use the brayer to evenly distribute the paint over the surface of the gelli plate. Aim for a thin, even layer to ensure the best print quality.

4. Arrange the String:

• Cut lengths of string and gently lay them on the gelli plate. You can create any design you like—random, geometric, spirals, etc.
• Press the string lightly into the paint with your fingertips to ensure it touches the plate without submerging it.

5. Pull the Print:

• Place a sheet of paper and string over the Gelli plate. Using your hands or a clean brayer, press down gently but firmly to transfer the design onto the paper.
• Carefully peel back the paper to reveal your print. The string will leave a negative space on the print, creating interesting textures and patterns.

6. Clean Up and Reuse:

• Lift the string from the gelli plate and clean the plate with baby wipes or a damp paper towel.
• If desired, immediately make another print using the residual paint on the plate for a lighter ghost print effect.
• The string can be wiped clean and reused for subsequent prints.

7. Experiment:

• Experiment with different string types (cotton, wool, twine) and vary the thickness and tension to see how it affects your prints.
• Try using multiple colours by applying them in sections on the plate and using the string to blend them slightly.

Tips for Success:

• Paint Consistency: Ensure your paint is not too thick, as it may make pulling a clean print difficult.
• String Placement: Be creative with your string placement to achieve various artistic effects.
• Layering: After pulling a print, you can add more paint and string to the same paper to create layers of images for more complex compositions.

Using a Gelli plate with string offers endless possibilities for artistic expression, making it a favoured technique for creating custom papers, backgrounds in scrapbooking, or beautiful standalone artwork. Enjoy exploring this versatile printing method!