Gel Plate Printing on Fabric

Create Vibrant and Versatile Fabric Prints with Gel Plates

Join mixed media fiber artist Lisa Thorpe, a surface design explorer with a Bachelor's in Design, and discover the beauty of gel plate printing! Gel plate printing is a form of mono printing that uses a flexible printing plate and acrylic paint to create textures, patterns, and layers of color to generate beautiful and rich surface designs on fabric and paper. Perfect for enlivening your fabric art, this fun and easy method will have you creating stunning, colorful designs in no time. Learn to use botanicals, stencils, and texture tools to make your prints unique and captivating.

Start by getting acquainted with the essential tools and materials, and explore color inspiration and possibilities. Learn how to select the suitable materials—commercial vs. homemade gel printing plates and the versatility of Golden OPEN Acrylics—and explore vibrant color combinations to create stunning prints on various fabrics from basic cotton to silks, linen, and sheers. You’ll learn how to make marks using drawing techniques, found objects, and unique stamps crafted from hot glue. Explore advanced techniques like masking, creating ghost prints, and mastering two-color designs. No prior experience with printing or painting on fabric is needed—everyone can easily create a stack of stunning, washable prints. Use your creations for art quilting, home decor, clothing embellishment, card making, mixed media projects, and more!