Get ready to Gelli Print

Gelli-Printing is a form of mono-printing that uses a soft, reusable gel plate to create vibrant, layered and one-off prints – no print is the same. The aim is to introduce the children to a new and creative process through experimenting with colour theory and layering, developing motor skills and fostering individual artistic expression. Activities will include the general set-up of the gelli plate (tools used, safety, clean-up etc), texture exploration, layered printing, theme-based printing, collaborative collaging, image-transfer, stencilling and more.

A selection of Gelli Prints

Suitable age group: KS2 (Y3–4) / KS2 (Y5–6) / KS3 / KS4

Curriculum links: Art and Design

Cost: £445 for one day*

*Cost covers one day of workshops, including administration, preparation and delivery, materials and travel. Additional days of the same workshop cost (up to) £315 per day. I.e:

1 Day 2 Days 3 Days 4 Days
£445 £760 £1050 £1340

Times and numbers:  The workshop is available in one of the following formats, allowing for timetabled breaks:

  • Two classes of up to 30 children for two hours each, in one day
  • One class of up to 30 children for one day, as a deeper experience

Materials: Learners will use collage materials, printing ink and equipment, including a small press.

Key Learning Outcomes

KS2 (Y3 – 4):

  • Participants can use a range of materials creatively to design and produce prints.

  • Participants can experiment with and test the qualities of different materials and techniques to develop practical skills.

  • Participants can select and apply appropriate materials and techniques to create their own artwork.

  • Participants can apply technical skills they are learning to improve the quality of their work.

  • Participants can demonstrate safe and effective use of chosen tools, explaining correct handling procedures.

KS2 (Y5 – 6):

  • Participants can investigate and exploit the potential of unfamiliar materials with confidence.

  • Participants can independently refine technical and craft skills to improve mastery of materials and techniques.

  • Participants can describe the processes they are using and explain how these contribute to achieving high-quality outcomes.

KS3:

  • Participants can record observations using sketchbooks, journals, and other media as a basis for developing ideas.

  • Participants can increase proficiency in handling a variety of materials.

  • Participants can analyse and evaluate creative works using appropriate art and design vocabulary.

  • Participants can use technical vocabulary to explain how materials and processes can be modified for different effects.

  • Participants can explore and experiment with a new technical process.

KS4:

  • Participants can develop ideas through a chosen theme, conducting research and exploration.

  • Participants can refine work through systematic experimentation with materials and techniques.

  • Participants can record ideas, observations, and insights in a sketchbook, tracking progress and analysing outcomes.

  • Participants can present a meaningful and personal final piece that brings together their ideas, research and experimentation and link to culture and artistic references

About the Artist

Kayleigh is an artist and workshop leader based in Plymouth. After 14 years as an art teacher, she founded Colourful Horizons to offer welcoming, hands-on art experiences for children, young people and adults.

Kayleigh works with a wide range of materials, keeping sessions flexible, relaxed and accessible so participants can explore ideas with confidence. Colourful Horizons is rooted in her experience across schools, community spaces and care settings, and in her belief that everyone can enjoy and benefit from the creative process.

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print making workshops in schools