Gel Plate Impressionism

Create impressionistic images with a gel plate, alcohol and Distress Oxides.

Supplies

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   Set up a gel printing plate on the MISTI. If you don't have a MISTI, just set the gel plate flat on a smooth, clean surface. Choose a few Distress Oxide ink colors, and if using a MISTI, position your cardstock using a bit of temporary adhesive, so that the gel plate will contact the cardstock when you close the lid.

   

2. Step 2

   Apply Distress Oxide ink to the plate directly from the ink pad.

   

3. Step 3

   Continue with bands of ink until the plate is covered.

   

4. Step 4

   Ink up your chosen stamp with a dark dye or pigment ink so that it's ready to go for the next step.

   

5. Step 5

   Lightly mist the inked gel plate with rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. You'll see the ink color instantly become more intense.

   

6. Step 6

   Quickly press inked stamp directly onto gel plate, being careful not to let it slip on the surface. Remove stamp and close the lid of the MISTI to print onto the cardstock. If not using a MISTI, place the cardstock directly onto the plate and rub gently to transfer image.

   

7. Step 7

   Remove paper from gel plate to see your print.

   

8. Step 8 (Optional)

   Finish your card.

   

9. Experiment with different ink colors and images.

   

Video!

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Gel Plate Impressionism. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!

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