geelilevy

Geelilevy is a Finnish term that translates to "gel plate" in English. It refers to a type of printing plate made from a flexible gel, typically a silicone or gelatin-based substance, that is used for a technique called gel printing or gel plate printing. This printing method is a form of mono-printing, meaning that each print produced is unique.

The process involves applying acrylic inks or paints to the surface of the gel plate. Various tools can be used to manipulate the ink, such as brushes, rollers, or sponges, creating textures and patterns. Found objects like leaves, stencils, or textured fabrics can also be pressed into the ink to add further detail. Once the desired design is achieved, a piece of paper or fabric is laid on top of the inked plate and gently rubbed or rolled to transfer the ink.

Geelilevy printing is popular among artists and crafters due to its accessibility, relatively low cost, and the immediate, often unpredictable, results it yields. It allows for experimentation with color, texture, and composition, and the gel plate's surface is durable and can be reused many times. The prints often have a luminous quality due to the way the ink sits on the gel surface. The technique is versatile and can be used to create backgrounds for mixed media art, standalone prints, or elements for collage.