From Leftovers to Layers: Transforming Gel Prints into a Bold Bloom Journal Page

Hello friends!
Today I’m sharing a mixed media journal page that’s all about second chances and creative surprises.

I’ll admit it—I didn’t love the gel press prints I made with alcohol ink a while back. But instead of tossing them, I saved them… and I’m so glad I did! Those “meh” prints ended up being just right for the layered, vibrant page I created today.

Backgrounds using gel press and alcohol ink

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Background Bloom:
I began with a cool blue background and used the PaperArtsy Tracy Scott PS463 stencil to trace a big bloom using an acrylic pen. Once outlined, I added black shading and detailed it with yellow and white highlights. Then I cut it out to layer later.

2. Creating the Base:
On my orange background, I stamped the Seth Apter Mini 65 sentiment using Versafine Twilight ink. I added background texture using the script stamp from Seth Apter 44 (PaperArtsy) in white ink, then clear heat embossed both stamps for texture and subtle shine.

3. Finishing Touches:
I shaded the edges with Russet Orange, glued down the bloom, and added a few strips of AALL & Create Washi Tape #39 for extra interest and movement.

Creative Takeaway:

This page reminded me that art doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Those forgotten or “not-quite-right” prints? They can become the stars of your next piece when given a second look.

So dig into your stash, embrace the unexpected, and keep creating! 🎨

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a beautifully creative weekend!
— Ericka 🌸

Want to find the supplies I used? I have listed them below. (Compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you.) Thank you for your support!

PaperArtsy – Tracy Scott PS463 Shop at: TP	PaperArtsy – Seth Apter 44 Shop at: TP	PaperArtsy – Seth Apter Mini 65 Shop at: TP	AALL & Create – Washi Tape #39 Scriptual Shop at: TP	WOW! Embossing – Clear Shop at: WOW US \| TP
WOW! Embossing – Clear Embossing Pad Shop at: WOW US \| TP	Lavinia – Elements Dye Ink – Russet Orange Shop at: TP	Tsukineko – Versafine Clair – Twilight Shop at: TP	Bearly Arts Glue – Alcohol Ink Shop at: Misc
Gel Press – Reusable Gel Printing Plate Shop at: AZ \| TP \| Misc	Hero Arts – Wagner – HT400 Precision Heat Tool Shop at: AZ	Speedball – 2″ Brayer Shop at: TP