Learn the foundations of gel plate printing– quick, clear, & fun!
Begin your gel plate journey here... printmaking magic starts with your very first pull. First Impressions is a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to gel plate printing—no experience needed.
In only 12 minutes, learn the basic essentials of making your first beautiful prints in our popular FREE online class, First Impressions.
Just fill in your info below to access the FREE online class...
Why gel plate printing?
Never tried gel plate printing? First Impressions is the perfect place to start. Gel plates are one of the most fun, versatile tools you can add to your creative toolkit...
🌟 Make beautiful, one-of-a-kind prints in minutes: Each print you pull is completely unique—no two will ever be exactly the same. You don’t need hours of practice or expensive materials to create something you’ll love right away.
🎨 Experiment with endless textures, colors, and patterns: From bold geometric shapes to soft, layered washes of color, gel plates let you play freely. You can use everyday items—like bubble wrap or cotton swabs—to create striking effects.
✂️ Create papers for collage, mixed media, and more: The prints you make can be used as backgrounds, cut into shapes, or layered into larger art pieces. They’re perfect for adding depth and personality to your creative projects.
😆 Enjoy a process that’s playful and low-pressure: Gel plate printing is all about discovery—there’s no “right” way to do it. Even unexpected results can turn into beautiful surprises, making it a great way to relax and spark creativity.
What will I learn?
In this free class, you’ll get hands-on guidance that takes you from zero experience to confidently making your very first gel plate prints, while also learning simple techniques for adding texture, layering colors, and exploring the endless possibilities of this versatile tool....
🩷 How gel plates work and why artists love them: Understand the basics of monoprinting and why the soft, squishy surface of a gel plate makes it perfect for endless creative experiments.
🔢 Step-by-step instructions to pull your first prints: The prints you make can be used as backgrounds, cut into shapes, or layered into larger art pieces. They’re perfect for adding depth and personality to your creative projects.
🛠️ The simple tools and paints you need to get started: Learn which gel plates, brayers, paints, and papers work best—without spending a fortune or buying unnecessary supplies.
🖌️ Easy ways to add marks, layer, and avoid mistakes: Discover simple techniques for creating texture, layering for depth, and troubleshooting beginner issues.
See what’s possible with gel plates...
Even with your very first prints, you’ll be amazed at the vibrant textures and patterns you can create. Gel plate printing allows you to experiment freely—layering colors, adding marks, and exploring endless combinations. Over time, these prints can become beautiful standalone pieces or the building blocks for collages, mixed media projects, and other creative artwork.
This is all great, but is gel plate printing for me?
If you’ve ever wanted to try gel plate printing but didn’t know where to start, or if you’re looking for a playful, hands-on way to experiment with color, texture, and pattern, this class is the perfect way to begin.
This class is especially great if you:
✅ Are curious about printmaking but have never tried gel plate printing
✅ Want a fun, low-pressure way to experiment with color, texture, and composition
✅ Enjoy hands-on creative activities and playful experimentation
✅ Want to make unique papers for collage, mixed media, or other art projects
✅ Are a beginner, hobbyist, or creative explorer ready to dive in
✅ Love discovering new art techniques that are easy to pick up but endlessly rewarding
How a gel plate will transform your art practice...
After just 12 minutes with First Impressions, you’ll feel the spark of possibility that comes from making your very first prints. You’ll have the confidence to dive in, play, and see where the process leads. In less than the time it takes to finish your morning coffee, you’ll:
⛓️💥 Break through the hesitation: no more staring at a blank plate wondering where to begin. You’ll know exactly how to pull your first prints and start creating with ease.
🏗️ Build a foundation that lasts: you’ll understand the core basics of gel plate printing, giving you the confidence to experiment without fear of “messing up.”
💡 See your creative voice start to emerge: even with simple techniques, you’ll notice textures and colors that feel uniquely yours. That little thrill of discovery is what keeps you coming back.
➡️ Leave with a sense of momentum: instead of waiting for the perfect moment to start, you’ll already be on your way, prints in hand, excited for what comes next.
Don't take our word for it.
Read what other have to say about Drew's online classes:
Meet your instructor:
Drew Steinbrecher
My name is Drew, and I am your instructor for First Impressions: Begin Your Gel Plate Journey Here.
Like you, I was once curious about gel plate printing but unsure where to start. When I finally picked up my first plate and started experimenting, I was hooked—and I haven’t stopped exploring since.
I’m excited that you’re here so we can dive into the fun of gel plate printing together. In this class, I’ll share all my beginner-friendly tips, tricks, and techniques to help you make your very first prints with confidence—and enjoy every messy, colorful moment along the way.
Are you ready to make your first prints?
Fill out the form below to sign up now for First Impressions and start your gel plate journey today—it’s completely free.