How to Use a Gel Press for Mixed Media Scrapbook Backgrounds

If you’re not familiar a Gel Press is a large clear flexible printing plate, it reminds me of a clear stamp without a design, that you can use to create all different types of fun backgrounds for your paper crafts using different mixed media products and techniques. You can apply ink sprays, liquid inks or watercolor, stamping inks and so much more to create unique patterns, shapes and textures. Simply apply the ink with a brayer, spritzer or dropper, add water for a looser look or to mix colors and press it on your paper, apply even pressure and lift off the reveal your design. Jess used it to make an amazing colorful circle background for her layout adding some stamping, splatter, die cut stems, flowers and sequins to her print for a stunning artsy look.

Visit A Cherry on Top blog to watch her process video and learn some fun basics for gel printing.

-Heather

Shop these products at A Cherry on Top.com

How fabulous is this purse shaped mini scrapbook album from Sabaa!? This stunning design is a purse shape with a magnetic flap and even a handle to hold it by decorated with mixed media 3D elements. It has accordion sides that create sections inside to slip in separate individual pages. She used the Always and Forever collection of supplies from Graphic 45 to create a wedding themed album in teals and pinks with lots of florals, butterflies and bows but you could create any style you’d like.

The pretty pages are double sided with places for matted photos or journaling on one side and decorated on the other side with coordinating stickers, pattern papers and embellishments with a lacey trim along the top of each one.

You can find step by step directions, a cutting and scoring template and a video tutorial so you can create your own purse accordion album over on the Graphic 45 blog.

-Heather

Looking for paper crafting supplies? Check out Craft Stash

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