Gel Press Holiday Cards

Discover the magic of gel printing with this inspiring holiday card class led by Brandi Mahon of Stamp Me Some Love. Learn to create stunning winter wonderland backgrounds using acrylic paints, stencils, and gel press techniques that transform simple cardstock into artistic masterpieces. This playful, experimental approach will reignite your creative spark while you craft three gorgeous holiday cards featuring non-traditional color palettes and professional finishing touches.

What You'll Create

• Three complete mixed media holiday cards with unique gel-pressed backgrounds
• Multiple background panels in one session using a 12x12 gel plate
• 3 distinct card designs featuring:
  • Wintry forest scene with dimensional brush bottle trees and "Seasons Greetings" sentiment
  • Heat-embossed "Merry" design with decorative stitched borders
  • Bonus third card revealed in exclusive follow-up video
• Non-traditional holiday color palettes including muted grays, sea foam teals, and deep night blues
• Layered dimensional elements combining die cuts, vellum sentiments, and metallic accents
• Professional finishing touches with rhinestones and decorative threads

Techniques You'll Learn

• Gel press printing with multiple stencils simultaneously
• Creating layered paint effects with acrylic and pouring mediums
• Lifting multiple impressions from a single gel plate application
• Heat embossing with versa mark ink and embossing powder
• Using the MISTI stamping tool for crisp, perfect impressions
• Creating depth and perspective with layered die cuts
• Working with vellum sentiment pieces
• Adding dimensional elements with foam dots
• Preventing warping on heavily painted cardstock
• Incorporating metallic threads and rhinestone accents

Skill Level

Beginner to Intermediate - This class welcomes crafters new to gel printing while offering creative inspiration for experienced artists. No prior gel press experience required! The experimental, playful approach encourages you to try new techniques without fear of mistakes. If you can use a brayer and basic die-cutting tools, you're ready to create. Brandy's encouraging style makes even complex layering techniques accessible and fun.

Class Features

• Step-by-step guidance for three complete card projects
• Video demonstration showing start-to-finish process
• Multiple background creation from single gel plate setup
• Tips for working with different paint consistencies
• Complete supplies list with specific product recommendations
• Troubleshooting guidance for paint application
• Lifetime access to main class video
• Bonus exclusive video showing third card assembly
• Real-time creative decision-making and experimentation

What Makes This Class Special

This isn't just a technical tutorial—it's an invitation to play and rediscover your creative joy! Brandy encourages experimentation and shows you that "mistakes" often lead to the most beautiful results. Watch as she layers colors, tries unexpected combinations, and creates multiple usable backgrounds from each gel plate session. You'll leave feeling inspired to embrace a more spontaneous, artistic approach to your cardmaking while learning professional techniques for polished final results.

Resources Included

• Detailed supply list with brand names and alternatives
• Paint mixing and layering strategies
• Gel plate cleaning and maintenance tips
• Die cut size specifications for all elements
• Anti-static powder application technique
• Heat embossing best practices guide
• Strong adhesive recommendations for warped panels
• Bonus third card tutorial (exclusive video access)

Perfect For

• Christmas and holiday greeting cards
• Winter-themed celebration cards
• Non-traditional holiday color schemes
• Mixed media enthusiasts wanting to try gel printing
• Anyone looking to reignite their creative spark
• Creating unique, artistic handmade cards
• Building confidence with experimental techniques
• Crafters wanting to use play as a creative tool

Join Brandi and our creative community to rediscover the joy of playing with color and texture! Whether you're new to gel printing or looking for fresh inspiration, this class will help you create beautiful holiday cards while reconnecting with the pure fun of making art. Your creative groove is waiting—let's find it together!