When I first tried Gelli printing I didn't like it. Everyone was making look so easy but my prints looked like crap! I couldn't understand what I was doing wrong so I just figured it wasn't for me.
I put my Gelli plate away for about 6 months and even thought about giving it away. Crazy right! I'm glad I didn't because I now know what I was doing wrong and love making prints.
I decided to start printing with an idea in mind as opposed to just grabbing random stencils from my stash and hoping it would work out. I drew and cut out a simple bird shape to work from and started layering colors.
I tried to focus on using less paint on my plate. Lots of layers add depth and interest to the background. I played with masking and negative space. Cutting basic shapes from card stock is an easy way to highlight different parts of a print.
Above all I just needed to play and not judge myself so harshly. I threw on some music and just messed around.
Have you tried Gelli printing or monoprinting?
Sharing with Art Journal Everyday, Paint Party Friday
