~ The recordings of the 2025 live, 6 week long workshop ~

Take your gel printing to the next level

Gel printing is playful, experimental and often unpredictable – and that’s part of the magic. But what if you could take control, refine your process, and create prints that feel intentional, layered and professional?

That’s exactly what we’ll explore in Gel Printing Unraveled – Beyond the Basics.

In the recordings of this 6 weeks long workshop from 2025, I’ll guide you through the techniques I use most in my own studio – from layering and coloring to botanicals, transfers and creative ways to use your finished prints.

Don’t just pull random layers – learn how to print with confidence and intention.

What’s included

• 6 lessons lifetime access of the recording in my Teachable school

• 2 live Q&A sessions

• General & per-lesson supply lists

• Free printable images to practice transfers

• Printable color wheel with a short guide to help you during your sessions

• Optional assignments to experiment and create your own reference library
  

What you’ll learn

Here’s a taste of the journey we’ll take together:

Lesson 1: Getting Set Up & Printing Essentials
Organize your space, care for your plate & tools, explore different papers and discover the power of found & recycled objects.

Lesson 2: Colors, Mediums & Layers
Practical color theory, acrylics explained, using matte & slow-dry mediums, layering textures and making reference tags + swatches.

Lesson 3: Stencils & Botanicals
Creative stencil tricks, working with leaves & flowers and combining botanicals with other techniques.

Lesson 4: Tracing, Tissue & Tape
Add drawings and marks with pens, charcoal & brushes, create collage tissue papers and experiment with tape transfers.

Lesson 5: Image Transfers
Master the laser print transfer, explore the StazOn magazine technique and add color, textures & masking for unique results.

Lesson 6: From Prints to Projects
Finish prints with extra details and turn your papers into collage elements or a handmade journal.

Each lesson builds on the previous one – so by the end you’ll not only have a stack of prints, but also the confidence to keep experimenting and creating your own style.

Found objects, recycled tools & creative surprises

One of my favorite things about gel printing is that the best tools aren’t always found in art supply stores. They’re hiding in your kitchen drawers, your recycling bin, or even outside in nature.

We’ll explore how to make the most of what you already have – and prove that amazing prints don’t require fancy supplies.

Turn everyday leftovers into layered stories.

Ready to unravel the magic?

I can’t wait to share these lessons filled with creativity with you. Together we’ll explore, experiment and make prints that surprise and inspire

Is this workshop for you?

This workshop is for you if…

• You want to go beyond the basics and learn refined techniques
• You love experimenting, but also want structure and guidance
• You’re curious about using recycled and found tools
• You’d like to finally learn image transfers in depth
• You’re excited to turn your prints into finished projects like journals or collage

No matter your level – beginner or advanced – you’ll find inspiration, growth and a new sense of freedom in your printing.

Let’s unravel the process together and see just how far your plate can take you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this workshop suitable for beginners?

A: Absolutely! Even though this edition of Gel Printing Unraveled is called Beyond the Basics, we start right at the beginning. In the first lesson, I’ll take you back to the essentials – how to set up your workspace, care for your plate, choose papers and understand the materials. These basics are the foundation for everything that follows and they’re just as important for advanced printers as they are for beginners.

That means this workshop is perfect if you’re completely new to gel printing and if you’re an experienced gel printer looking to deepen your practice, explore new techniques and refresh your creative approach.

Q: What supplies do I need?

A: To joinGel Printing Unraveled – Beyond the Basics, you don’t need to buy a mountain of new supplies. With just a few essentials you’ll already be able to follow along with almost all techniques. For many of the more “special” materials I’ll show you accessible alternatives.

Here’s the general supply list:

• Gelli Arts® gel printing plate (any size works - pick the one you have or prefer)
• Brayer - 4" wide + optional 8" or 10" lino brayer
• Clean-up paper (regular copier paper, deli paper or old book paper)
• A variety of (found) papers to print on (from tissue paper to book paper, heavy card or transparent sheets)
• Masking tape and clear packaging tape
• Matte medium
• Slow-dry blending medium
• Wet cloth and/or baby wipes
• Baby or vegetable oil
• Acrylic paints in a variety of colors + black and white (my go-to brands: Ara Acrylics, Talens Amsterdam Standard, Liquitex Basics, FolkArt Multi-Surface)
• Printing tools like found materials, handmade tools, stencils and stamps
• Optional: Gelli Arts® mini placement tool

With these basics, you’ll be set up for success! Most techniques can be done with what’s on this list and where special supplies come in, I’ll share alternatives. That means you probably won’t need to invest much to fully enjoy the workshop.

Q: Do I need a Gelli Arts® gel printing plate?

A: My techniques are based on using a Gelli Arts® gel printing plate. The techniques will work on plates that are similar to a Gelli Arts® plate but plates that are meant for printmaking with special printmaking inks or handmade gel plates might not always give the same results.

Q: Can I ask questions about the lessons?

A: Absolutely! You can post your questions in the comment section inside the classroom. I love hearing your questions—they often inspire others too!

Q: How long do I have access to the content?

A: Forever! You can come back any time to refresh your memory, try techniques again, or catch up if life gets busy.

Q: What if I’ve already done Gel Printing Unraveled before?

A: Then you’re in for a treat! This new edition is deeper, more focused, and reflects how much my own gel printing practice has grown. We’ll cover advanced techniques, refined methods, and fresh project ideas that weren’t in the earlier workshops.

Q: What if I’m unhappy with the course?

A: I would never want you to be unhappy! I’ve poured a lot of thought, effort and love into this class to make it inspiring and valuable. If for any reason you’re not satisfied, please reach out to me at info@birgitkoopsen.nl so we can work it out together.