Tree Canopy

Some might say this print didn’t work and I admit, that was my first thought when I looked at it. On later inspection I decided I really liked its imperfection and incomplete nature. The technique is alcohol ink through a stencil on a gel plate. Once the alcohol ink dries I pull the print with acrylic paint. (I have several videos on my youtube channel showing the technique)

When applying alcohol ink through a stencil onto a gel plate I have had the most success when using stencils full of fine lines not large solid spaces. The tree canopy stencil from The Crafter’s Workshop has some very fine lines but quite a lot of solid tree trunks also. The alcohol ink pools under the expanse of stencil plastic and takes quite a while to dry. If you move the stencil before the ink dries it starts moving again. I don’t believe I waited long enough for the ink to dry so I have some distinctly tree-ish bits in my print and some very abstract blobby bits. Despite the indistinct image I love the atmosphere of the print which I pulled with white acrylic paint. The stencil is 6″x6″ and so is the gel plate I used so I chose the best part of the print to make my 4.25″x5.5″ card. The sentiment is from Taylored Expressions ‘In & Out birthday’ set.

So let me know, is this too abstract for you or do you see a bit of whimsical forest atmosphere in there?

Today’s post features affiliate links to the following companies. If you buy through these links I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The Foiled Fox & Scrap’n’Stamp


8 Comments on “Tree Canopy”

  1. wsdennee's avatar wsdennee says:

    I really, really love it! I really want to get into using a gel plate, but I am very intimidated by it. I will definitely look up your videos on the subject. Please keep all your inspiring posts coming! I save almost all of them!!!!

  2. Liz in NH's avatar Liz in NH says:

    Love this so much! Haven’t tried alcohols on my gel plate, yet. What inspiration!!!

  3. Marilyn Bailey's avatar Marilyn Bailey says:

    LOVE, LOVE IT! The abstract nature of it, the beautiful colors…all together an incredible card!

  4. Clavell Stutzman's avatar Clavell Stutzman says:

    Upon first sight, it took my breath away! Love its ethereal beauty!!!❤️

  5. Pat's avatar Pat says:

    Such pretty coloured AI’s Heather and you can see the shape of the trees coming through..I think this is a beautiful abstract piece and perfect for a birthday card. x

  6. Ellie Knol's avatar Ellie Knol says:

    I love the imperfect prints most 🙂


Leave a reply to Marilyn Bailey Cancel reply