9 Unexpected Tools That Create Beautiful Gel Plate Printing Textures

If you’ve ever stared at your gel plate and wondered what to use next, you're not alone. While commercial stencils and texture tools are great, you don’t need fancy supplies to make beautiful prints. In fact, some of the best textures come from objects you already have around the house! Today I’m sharing 9 unexpected tools you can use to make your next gel plate printing session even more creative—and more fun.

The List:

1. Bubble Wrap – Press it into your paint for a dotted, grunge-like texture.

2. Old Credit Card or Gift Card – Use the edge to scrape paint or draw lines.

3. Potato Masher – The holes and lines create bold, repeating shapes.

4. Mesh Fruit Bags – Instant netted texture with an organic look.

5. Feathers – Drag them through wet paint for wispy lines.

6. Toilet Paper Roll – Dip the end in the paint on the plate for perfect circles.

7. Lace Fabric Scraps – Delicate and vintage textures appear instantly.

8. Leafy Stems – Especially ferns, which make gorgeous natural impressions.

9. Corrugated Cardboard – Tear off the top layer and press the ridged part into paint.

   
   

Next time you’re printing, look around your home or even in your recycling bin. You’ll be surprised how many printmaking tools are hiding in plain sight!

I’d love to know—what’s the most unexpected object you’ve ever used in your gel prints? Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram at @jennagelprints.

Want to grab a free gel printing supply list? Click on this link and you'll find out what the "bare bones" basics are, plus optional things you may need to get started with gel printing: https://jenna-mclean-art.mykajabi.com/gel-print-supply-list