Gelli Arts 5" x 5" Gel Printing Plates 10-Pack — Clear, Reusable Monoprinting Plates for Classroom & Workshops

Gelli Arts 5" x 5" gel printing plates (10-pack) are reusable, clear monoprinting surfaces designed for classroom and studio printmaking without a press.

These small, flexible gel plates make monoprinting approachable for students, beginners, and experienced makers. Each plate is made in the USA from odour-free, silicone- and latex-free polymer, and the compact 5" x 5" size is ideal for classroom groups, mixed-media projects, and travel. Use acrylic paint, texture tools, and paper to create single-layer prints, then wipe the plate clean for the next design.

How do I use these plates for quick class demonstrations?

Set up a simple demo station: apply a thin layer of acrylic paint, add texture or a stencil, press paper, and peel to reveal the print. The small plates let several students watch and take turns during a short lesson.

• Use a soft brayer to spread paint evenly across the plate.
• Lay stencils, stamps, or found textures on the paint.
• Place paper gently, rub with a spoon or baren, then lift to pull the print.
• Wipe with a baby wipe or water and paper towel between pulls.

What materials work best with these 5" x 5" gel plates?

Acrylic paints, printing inks designed for monoprinting, lightweight papers, and mixed-media supports all pair well. The clear surface helps you layer marks and see placement for precise registration.

• Fluid or slightly thinned acrylic paint for smooth coverage.
• Lightweight to medium-weight papers (mix media, printmaking, sketch paper).
• Everyday texture tools like stencils, feathers, string, and stamps.
• Gelli-specific tools and brayers for consistent results.

How do I care for and store these plates to keep them reusable?

Cleaning is quick: use a baby wipe or rinse with water and blot dry with a paper towel. Store plates covered with white paper on both sides to avoid dust, and keep them flat in the original box to preserve shape.

• Clean immediately after printing to prevent paint buildup.
• Do not use strong solvents; water or mild soap is sufficient for acrylics.
• Cover both sides with white paper for storage to prevent impressions.
• Stack flat in a cool, dry place—avoid sharp folds or creases.

Why choose the 10-plate class pack over single plates?

The 10-plate pack is cost-effective for workshops, classrooms, and collaborative studios where many participants need their own surface. It speeds up lessons and lets each student experiment simultaneously without waiting for turns.

• Ten identical plates provide uniform practice surfaces for groups.
• Smaller 5" x 5" size reduces paint use and cleanup time.
• Reusable polymer construction lowers long-term supply costs.
• Clear plates support layered, transparent printing techniques.

Who is this for: Artists, art teachers, after-school programs, and hobbyists who want a low-prep way to explore monoprinting will benefit from this 10-pack. It's particularly suited to classrooms and community programs where safe, non-toxic, easy-to-clean materials are required. The compact size and durable construction make these plates a practical choice for introducing printmaking fundamentals, testing layered colour ideas, or creating small repeatable prints for collage and mixed-media work.