Water Resist on a Gel Plate? Here’s What Worked…

Further Exploration of Water Effects on the Gel Plate

This week in the studio, I set out to solve a little creative puzzle: how to make water work as a resist when applied directly to the gel plate. Barb and I experimented with it together, but at first the process felt slow and the results were… let’s just say underwhelming. The idea was there, but the payoff wasn’t quite happening.

Back in my own studio, with more time (and patience), things started to click. I discovered that Fluid Acrylics work far better than tube paints for this particular effect, especially when you allow each layer to fully dry before moving on. That drying time turned out to be the key. It also reminded me how helpful it is to have a second gel plate on hand—it keeps you from rushing the process just so you can pull another print, and sometimes slowing down makes all the difference.

The end results were absolutely worth the experimentation, and I’m sharing exactly what worked—and what didn’t—in this week’s Tutorial Tidbit over on YouTube. If you love playful problem-solving and unexpected surface effects, you’ll want to check it out.

Joggles Mixed Media Art Supplies

All of the products used in this Tidbit are linked below please consider supporting Joggles as the are a family owned business in Rhode Island with great customer service. Joggles are the exclusive retailer and producer of my stencil and mask designs used in this video. You can always get your 9x11 gel plates, rice paper, and brayers from them and they often ship the same day

– PATREON –
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