Gel plate printing is a process of creating unique prints (monotypes) by applying acrylic paint to a gel plate, adding layers, textures and patterns, and then pressing a piece of paper onto the plate to then pull the print off the plate. I have started practicing this technique with simple patterns, 2 colours and feathers as a feature. I began with a small blob of paint on the plate and used a brayer to roll it out over the whole plate. I then pressed a star-shaped stamp into the paint in a random pattern to create a texture and remove the paint in those areas, laid the paper down over the plate and rubbed over the entire area to pull the first printed layer. By creating textures in the paint it gives the final piece a view to the layer underneath. I then applied a contrasting colour paint on the plate and laid on the feathers. I pulled a second layer (on top of the previously layer) with the feathers in place, then removed the feathers and printed one more layer without adding anymore paint. I think this technique creates really interesting pieces, combining colours and patterns. It is also great that not much specialist equipment is needed.