Art, Paper, Prints and Painting

Help wanted on how to sell art prints online

2026-06-22T15:27:54.435+02:00

Has anyone any views on the best way to sell prints? As in etchings, lithographs, screen prints and mono-prints. I have built up a surplus over the years and I'd like to find a way of selling them for a reasonable price. As they are on paper, they are lightweight so easy to post.

There are lots of web sites for selling but there are thousands of people trying to sell all sort of items.

Any suggestions for sites that actually promote prints would be most appreciated.

Thanks.

Where Should Artists Sell Their Work in 2026

2025-12-19T11:20:00.006+01:00

Etsy, Instagram or Exhibitions? Where Artists Should Sell Their Work in 2026

We are artists trying to make a living from our work. It's not easy and most of the time it's frustrating and downright depressing. But do we give up? No, we continue, we persevere and hope that one day we will find success.
Success is different for everyone. For some it's to have a gallery take them on, for others to have an exhibition, for some it's to earn a living from their work, and others to sell enough to cover the cost of their materials.
However, we don't give up. We've been told that social media is the way to go. We've read about success stories. Artists making enough from internet sales to give up the day job. But the reality is this. You get likes and the more artists and people you follow, the more likes you get. You write up your blog. You put your photos on Instagram, and FaceBook, you pin on Pinterest, you open a shop on Etsy, you link on Linkedin. But tell me, how often does it translate in to sales? Less than most would admit to I guess.
I'm convinced that the majority of buyers want to see the art work before handing over their hard earned cash. Therefore I say, if you want to see you art you have to go out and exhibit it.

How, you may ask? Well, mount an exhibition in you home, your studio, your shop, your friend's garage, the railings of your house. Clear the living room, the garage, the studio, whatever space it is.
Put the art on the walls, pin it from the rafters, stick it on the windows. Show it! Invite everyone you know and get them to invite everyone they know to a "special" one day show. Or maybe a weekend show. It doesn't have to be for a week or a month like in some galleries. In fact there is a lot to be said for a short. sharp show. It's better to have lots of people milling around at one time than if the room is virtually empty. It give the impression that you are popular and it means people will be more inclined to buy. Once a red dot appears on a work it encourages people to buy before the piece they like gets sold. Red dots make for more red dots! Try to invite people personally. That means an invitation. If you can't afford to have invitations printed, then write them by hand. But it should be by invitation as well as a general open invitation to the public.
Make it sound "special", as in exhibition for one day only, for one weekend only, pop up show, etc.
So try it, tell me how you get on. Have you any other ideas?

Do you need any help or tips for the organisation?
I'd love to hear if you have a go and if it was a success - or not as the case may be. Fingers Crossed!

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helenmc@mailo.com

Screen print

AI - Is Artificial Intelligence everywhere?

2025-11-02T08:00:00.001+01:00

AI - Is Artificial Intelligence everywhere? What exactly is AI?

Is Ai a help or a hinderance? Can you opt out of AI?

You might have noticed that Ai is in the news a lot recently. It is creeping into our lives often without us realising. Even if we wish to avoid AI, it’s there whether we want it or not. When you read an article or description or look for information on a product or item, the chances are it could have been written by AI.
Books, newspapers articles, scientific journals, instructions, blogs, social media posts, advertisements, the list goes on & on, you name it and it can be written at least in part if not totally by AI
Artists & designers are using it for ideas, models, layouts, posters, pictures & paintings. It’s used in the film & video industry. You’ve all seen fake reels of well known politicians.
Students are using it to write their essays & homework. Which apparently is making their brains lazy. Doctors are using it to help with diagnostics.

So what is it? How has this happened? What can you do about it? Is it any use or help for you?
Will it dominate our lives & make it impossible to know truth from lies? Can you opt out or are you automatically in? A lot of questions & how will we find the answers? Ask AI perhaps?

What exactly is Ai?
AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is the science of creating machines and software that can perform tasks which normally require human intelligence. These tasks include learning from experience, recognising patterns, understanding language, solving problems, and even making decisions. As the first Large language models (LLM) to gain public notice, OpenAI’s ChatGPT is probably the most used of the major AI models. That means many people are helping train it through their daily prompts and queries. Every time you use your computer or smart phone the words you type are fed and analysed and usually kept for future use. You Google solar panels & next thing you get lots of ads for … solar panels of course. But with great power comes great data-sucking demands. All of the major large language models (LLMs), including ChatGPT, Claude.ai, Google’s Gemini, X’s Grok, Microsoft’s Copilot and Meta.ai, rely on tiny bytes of information or petabytes of data, some of which comes from users like you.

What can you do about it?
You can try to opt out of web sites keeping your information. Use Incognito windows or tabs which are apparently private, so that none of your browsing history, cookies and site data, or information entered in forms are saved on your device.

Is AI any use or help for you?
It can be useful if you need information on a particular subject but you probably need to verify whether it’s is accurate. People who have used chatbots for help have sometimes been steered in the wrong direction with tragic consequences.

Will it dominate our lives & make it impossible to know truth from lies?
AI is becoming part of our daily lives While it brings convenience, it also raises concerns. With AI able to generate convincing text, images, and videos, it can sometimes blur the line between truth and lies. It can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. The EU wants to make sure that AI systems used in the EU are safe, transparent, traceable, non-discriminatory and environmentally friendly. AI systems should be overseen by people, rather than by automation, to prevent harmful outcomes.
Read more here:
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20230601STO93804/eu-ai-act-first-regulation-on-artificial-intelligence

Can you opt out or are you automatically in?
Completely opting out of AI is becoming harder but is still possible. While AI features are often already contained phones, apps, and online services, you can choose products and services that prioritise privacy and disable AI in settings. To help you disable AI in many of the well known social media and search sites check out the help and information from The Media Copilot

Use the following link:
https://mediacopilot.substack.com/p/how-to-protect-data-chatgpt-claude-meta-ai?open=false

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What Type of AI Art Sells Best Online?

2025-10-20T14:00:00.011+02:00

What types of AI-generated art sell best online. From abstract and surreal to fantasy, landscapes and patterns. Do your research to find out what buyers like.

AI-generated art is rapidly becoming a popular category in online marketplaces, from Etsy to print-on-demand shops. But not all AI art sells equally well. If you’re creating with AI tools and want to build an income stream, it helps to know what buyers are actually looking for.

Bold colours, dreamlike textures and surreal compositions always stand out. These kinds of images make great posters and digital downloads because they spark curiosity and work in many décor styles. Upload your work to sell as decor art.

Imaginative forests, sunsets, mountains, or celestial skies are popular. Buyers like calming art that adds atmosphere to a room, especially when printed on canvas or as wall décor.

Futuristic cityscapes to mythical creatures, fantasy and science fiction art is in demand. It appeals to collectors and fans who want imaginative, storytelling visuals.

Stylised portraits whether cyberpunk, painterly, or vintage sell well. There’s also a growing demand for custom AI portraits, where people or pets are transformed into unique characters. You can use your imagination to come up with unusual fantastical and mythical situations.

AI-generated seamless patterns work well for fabric, stationery, and print-on-demand products. Minimalist or geometric designs also perform strongly as trendy home décor pieces.

Mandalas, cosmic energy designs, and meditative imagery are popular with buyers looking for art that inspires calm and mindfulness which is trendy as people seek to find calm.

The best-selling AI art often fits into a niche and maintains a consistent style. Success comes from blending creative vision with market awareness, choosing the right themes, refining your images and presenting them in ways buyers want.

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Idea for wall art decor. Ai generated

Using AI to Create Art to Sell Online

2025-10-09T17:34:00.002+02:00

Use AI tools to create and sell your own art online. Learn on platforms to build a brand around your digital creations.

AI has transformed the way we think about creativity, opening doors for anyone with a laptop and curiosity to become an artist. You don’t need years of training in painting or design to create something visually striking AI tools can help you generate unique works of art that reflect your vision. But how do you turn those digital pieces into something you can sell online?

Platforms like MidJourney, DALL·E, and Stable Diffusion let you experiment with prompts and styles. Your input the words you use shapes the final image, so the creativity is still very much yours. Take time to refine your prompts until you achieve art that feels authentic and marketable

AI can generate thousands of images, but your job is to curate. Choose the best, edit them if needed, and build a consistent style. This makes your portfolio more professional and appealing to buyers.

AI art can be sold as digital downloads, prints, or on products like phone cases, notebooks, or wall décor through print-on-demand platforms such as Etsy, Redbubble, and Society6. Offering both digital and physical formats expands your market.

Social media is your showcase. Share your process, tell the story behind each piece, and connect with audiences who value creativity and innovation. People often buy art not just for the image but for the story behind it.

Let buyers know your art is AI-generated but guided by your creative decisions. Transparency builds trust and shows that technology is a tool you use not a replacement for creativity.

AI makes art more accessible, but success still comes from passion, consistency, and smart marketing. By blending human imagination with AI tools, you can create a unique art business that thrives online.

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Ai generated image

AI and Art: Creative Revolution or Cultural Risk?

2025-10-06T06:00:00.001+02:00

Explore the pros and cons of AI-generated art.

Is it a creative revolution or a threat to human talent and culture?

The rise of AI-generated art has sparked passionate debate in the creative world. On one hand, AI offers exciting opportunities. It can help artists experiment with new styles, generate inspiration, and make art more accessible to people who may not have traditional training. AI tools can speed up the creative process and open the door for collaboration between human imagination and machine learning. For some, it’s a revolution—breaking down barriers and expanding what art can be.

On the other hand, critics argue that AI art poses real risks. It can devalue the years of practice and skill that human artists put into their work. Many AI systems are trained on existing art without permission, raising ethical and copyright concerns. There’s also the danger that AI could flood the market with cheap, mass-produced images, overshadowing human-made pieces and threatening the livelihood of working artists.

In truth, AI in art is both opportunity and challenge. The key may be finding balance—using AI as a tool to enhance creativity rather than replace it. The future of culture will depend on how we, as a society, choose to support both technological innovation and the irreplaceable human talent behind art.

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Handmade Art Ideas for Christmas Gifts & Cards

2025-10-04T16:00:00.005+02:00

Discover unique ways to create handmade Artistic gifts for Christmas

It’s not too early to think about Christmas!

I have already started. I usually try to give my friends and family something personal that I have made myself. I think it’s enjoyable to take the time and effort to make something unique especially for them.

It’s not being mean or tight with money. I could buy them gifts but my are doing well. Anyhow that’s not the point. The point is, if you want to make something to offer your friends and family for Christmas, then you should start now before it’s too late.

Maybe not too late if you are just going to make cards. But if you want to make anything bigger or if you have a BIG family, then it’s probably better to start right away.

Let’s say for example you want to make 10 framed collages. Frames have become less expensive these last few years and most of them are quite light using perplex instead of glass. If you can’t buy them locally then they are easily available online. Small frames that are postcard size are inexpensive and look great in a group.

First decide on the size of your frames. Make the collage slightly bigger than the size of the frame or mount. Everything looks better with a mount.

Next decide on your materials.

When it comes to collage - the world is your oyster. Maybe with the exception of perishable items, like leaves or flowers, fruit and vegetables etc. Although if you have dried flowers and leaves they could work really well. Sticks and branches look great too. Corrugated packing material can add an interesting texture.

Gather up paper, prints, fabric, carton, shells, buttons, wool, magazines, newspaper, tissue paper, textured paper, wallpaper, old maps, old books or photographs, stamps, coins, old banknotes, feathers, in fact just about anything you can glue onto your chosen surface.

Your base should be strong enough to support your collage without bending or tearing. Card stock is often a good support. It’s solid but not too thick. Your glue should be strong enough to hold your items stuck onto the surface without falling off.

The heavier the item the stronger the glue.

Now to facilitate you choices, I find it best to sort the items into the various colours or textures.

Then it’s a matter of cutting, tearing, ripping your paper or fabric into pieces and arrange them onto the surface. Play around with similar colours, contrasting colours, similar or contrasting textures. Try to get a balance. Remember you don’t have to cover the entire surface. Leaving blank areas can add to the overall balance of the arrangement. It’s what is called negative space. In fact, if you are using a base that has a colour, then that becomes part of your composition. bBack makes a sophisticated background.

Don’t start gluing until you are happy with the composition.

Once you’ve finished the composition, you could add buttons, shells, beads, string, wool, sticks, glitter or whatever decorative items you have to finish it off. Alternatively you could use paint or permanent markers to add lines or squiggles.

A word of caution - less is more. Don’t overdo it, either with colours or textures unless you are pretty confident with your work.

You can always add another piece but once it’s stuck down, well, it’s not so easy to remove it. Especially paper. You could try a 3D effect by covering thick card with paper or fabric before placing it on your work. It will be a slightly raised surface. Obviously it can’t be so high that it interferes with closing the back of the picture frame.

Once it’s dry you can attach it to the mounting you got with the frame. Either glue it or tape it to the mount and voila! Your unique and special gift is ready.

It can be a lot of fun making your own collages. You could get hooked and now you’ve found a great pastime. Collage gifts are not just for Christmas. What about St.Valentine’s Day. Or Easter, or perhaps for birthdays.

Let me know how you get on and if you have ideas of your own.

I’ll be doing another blog soon with ideas for cards, boxes and more collages.

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Why Supporting Local Artists Matters

2025-10-04T06:00:00.002+02:00

Support your local artists to fight poverty, nurture talent, and keep culture alive. Discover why small acts of support make a big difference.

Supporting local artists is more than just buying a painting, attending a small concert, or visiting a craft fair—it’s about recognising the role creativity plays in the life of a community. Too often, artists face poverty despite their extraordinary talent. Many juggle multiple jobs to make ends meet, while still creating work that enriches our culture and gives meaning to everyday life.

When we support local artists, we’re not only helping individuals but also investing in culture itself. Every drawing, sculpture, poem, or performance adds depth to the stories we share as a society. Without support, many voices risk being silenced and culture becomes dominated by mass-produced trends instead of authentic, local expression.

Practical support doesn’t always mean spending large sums of money. Buying small pieces, commissioning work, sharing the events, or even spreading the word about their talent can make a difference. Each act of support helps sustain an artist’s practice and ensures that creativity continues to thrive in the face of financial hardship.

In a world where poverty often overshadows talent, choosing to stand behind your local artists is a statement: that culture matters, that creativity deserves recognition, and that we value the people who give us new ways to see and understand the world.

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Magazine Transfers on a Gel Plate

2025-10-01T06:00:00.001+02:00

Discover the magic of magazine transfers on a gel plate—easy, fun, and full of surprises.

Magazines. A transfer using shiny magazine paper works really well. It’s best if there are good contrasting shapes or spaces on the page. The magazine pages need to be high quality shiny paper. Matt pages won’t work. Your paint layer should be fairly thin but not too thin. Trial and error will teach you how much paint you need. Place the page immediately you’ve rolled out the paint. Don’t rub too hard, just enough to stick the image to the paint. Try magazines like Vogue, Elle, Interiors, Home & Garden. Ask your friends if they have any old magazines they don’t want. Don’t throw the rest of the magazine away, it’s great for cleaning your brayer between colours. The pages you don’t use are great for cleaning the brayer.

The first time I tried a magazine transfer on my gel plate, I honestly didn’t expect anything to happen. I pressed down a glossy page, peeled it back, and there it was—a hazy, ghost-like picture clinging to the paint.

Some pages give me sharp, bold images, while others look smudgy and dreamlike, like half-forgotten memories. Fashion spreads, travel photos, and old ads have given me some of the most interesting results. And the best part? You never quite know what you’re going to get. Sometimes using the text works really well as a sort of texture.

It’s so simple too. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps—just acrylic paint, paper, and a gel plate. Sometimes I use the transfers as backgrounds in collages, and other times I leave them as they are because the imperfect look feels complete on its own. For me, it’s less about control and more about enjoying the surprise of whatever appears.

Quick Steps for Magazine Transfers on a Gel Plate

Pick a magazine page (glossy ones usually work best).
Roll a thin layer of paint on your gel plate—darker colours often show the image better.
Place the magazine page face down on the plate and rub firmly but not too hard.
Peel it back slowly to see the image transfer. Let the paint dry.
Roll on a second thin layer of paint in a contrasting colour, press a sheet of paper on top, and pull your final print.

Tip: Not every page will work—and that’s okay. The surprises are part of the fun. Even a dud print is a learning curve.

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Paper for Gel Printing

2025-09-29T03:00:00.011+02:00

Which Paper for Gel Printing? How to chose the Right Paper for Printing?

A4 copy paper is fine for starting off with or as cheap paper for tryouts and taking ghost prints. But if you want to pull several layers of paint in one go then, you’ll need a tough paper which won’t tear. You can sometimes get mixed pads of paper but go for 160 grams to 190 grams or more if you want to make cards. I have bought synthetic paper also called Yupo paper. It’s made for alcohol inks watercolour, acrylic, oil, felt tips, etc. it’s also UV lightfast and can be recycled. It’s tough and very resistant to tearing.

Paper is all around you. You can print on old books, old maps, sheet music. Newspaper too, but it has limited keeping qualities. And is prone to tearing when you pull the print. Magazine paper is stronger. If you want to invest in high quality paper, you can get beautiful hand made paper made with 100% rags or cotton or linen. Silk can also be used to make paper, although I’ve never seen it. There are papers with petals flowers and leaves incorporated. Paper made with bamboo, flax, sugar cane. Paper with beautiful decal edges. Japanese paper. Egyptian paper. The list is endless. You could make your own. But that’s another subject and the subject of another Blog.

Try tea paper or Wet Strength Tissue paper. It’s thin but strong, just be a bit careful pulling the prints. It’s big advantage is using it for collage afterwards as it is quite fine so you can often see whatever is underneath.

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Incorporate Textures into your Gel Printing

2025-09-27T06:00:00.021+02:00

Textures make great subjects for your Gel Printing

Texture. This is what give a print some “life” and helps it standout from all the other gel prints. Make your texture from stencils, leaves, flowers, petals, clothes pegs, combs, old toothbrush, flattened soda cans, (no sharp edges please) old jeans, feathers, round plastic containers, scissors handle, old tools, carton, stamps, lettering, string, knitted fabric, credit card cut outs, tissue or bits of other prints. Balloons. Fabric. Brushes. Plastic packaging from biscuits and chocolates, Think outside the box. Try anything with texture or a raised design.

When you begin to print for the first time, I would suggest starting with some leaf print which can be fun and give a good result on the first or second try. After that packing carton gives nice textures as does crushed up paper. Dampen one side of the carton and after a few minutes the paper will life off to reveal a corrugated surface which is great for printing.

You can cut out stencils using scissors and thick paper or plastic sheet. Look around your house for items that will make texture.

I bet once you start looking you’ll find lots of stuff. Just remember it should be something you don’t want to keep as the paint will dry on it.

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Which Acrylic Paints for Gel Painting?

2025-09-25T14:10:00.001+02:00

Which paint for Acrylic painting on Gel Plates? Liquitex? Pēbeo? Amsterdam? Inexpensive Brands?

Choose the Best you can afford.

Acrylic paint can be cheap or expensive depending on the quality available. If you think you are going to like gel printing then go for a medium range of paint. I have bought cheap paint but I find it can be made with chemicals that smell or it contains mediums which take a while to dry or don’t mix well with other paints. Eventually I decided cheap is more expensive in the long run. I personally find Liquitex paints are good quality, reasonably priced, dry quickly and mix well. They also make all sorts of mediums and all their products are guaranteed to mix together. This is important as I have had issues before with certain brands of paints not mixing with other brands and I had to throw out a whole batch of paint. Now I stick with Liquitex. But if you find other brands for example Pēbeo or Amsterdam paints, no worries. They are good quality paints too. I have used them with Liquitex and found they mixed together without any issues. For example I prefer Amsterdam Ivory Black as I find it’s darker and more opaque than Liquitex. You can buy directly from Liquitex from your local art supplier or if none of the above products are available nearby try Amazon. They always have a stock and their prices are reasonable.

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Creating Collages with Gel Prints

2025-09-19T06:00:00.001+02:00

Ideas for Using Gel Prints

One of the most exciting ways to use gel prints is by turning them into unique collages. Gel printing produces layers of texture, colour, and pattern that are perfect for cutting, tearing, and reassembling into new works of art. Because each print is different, your collages will always have a one-of-a-kind look.

When making collages with gel prints, start by experimenting with different papers. The list is endless, textured or plain paper, all sorts of prints, different fabrics, packaging carton, shells, old buttons, various wools, old magazines, old newspaper, coloured tissue paper, textured paper, wallpaper, old maps, old books or photographs, stamps, coins, old banknotes, in fact just about anything you can find. Remember to use a suitable base, card stock works well but for a small collage strong paper will suffice.

You can use bold, bright prints for a statement background, or tear softer pastel prints into strips to create depth and atmosphere. Try layering geometric shapes with organic, torn edges—it’s often the contrast that makes a collage stand out.

Here are some creative ways I have used my gel prints to make collages:

Wall art: Combine prints into larger abstract compositions, mount them on canvas or wood, and frame them.
Cards and stationery: Use smaller collage pieces to decorate handmade greeting cards, gift tags, or bookmarks.
Mixed media projects: Layer gel print collages with paint, ink, or stitching for even more texture.

Collage with gel prints is fun, intuitive and full of surprises. Whether you’re building up a bold abstract piece or simply adding colourful fragments to your journal, each item needs thought on its placement and effect to the overall composition.

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Collage art looks great in small Fames

2025-09-17T06:00:00.001+02:00

Framing collage cards protects your art and makes it look great.

I make a lot of collages with my gel prints. A lot of the time I use the prints to make greeting cards which I sell whenever I have an exhibition. Sometimes my friends will buy cards, as they know I make them and they want cards that can’t be bought elsewhere.

However one of the big advantages of these little greeting cards is that they are the perfect size for putting in frames. Small frames are easy to find. Because of their size, collage cards look great in both traditional frames and more creative presentations. A simple white mat with a slim black frame gives your card a gallery-style finish, while vintage or decorative frames add character and charm. Many inexpensive decor shops sell frames or you can buy small frames at flea markets or online. They are light and make perfect presents to send by mail. A group of these little frames look perfect grouped together on a wall. If it’s a big wall hang them in a horizontal line but if it’s a narrow wall then hang them vertically. Another option is to group several collage cards together in one larger frame with a grid-style mat. This creates a mini exhibition on your wall and highlights how each piece connects to the others.
Whether you choose sleek minimalism or eclectic arrangements, framing collage cards helps protect them while showing off the textures and details that make them special.

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Collage with Gel Prints

2025-09-14T06:00:00.013+02:00

Create unique collages with gel prints. Fun ideas for journals, wall art, cards, and mixed media projects.

I first started making collages with gel prints because I couldn’t bear to throw away all the little scraps of colour and texture I had pulled from my gel plate. Over time, I discovered that collage is one of the most rewarding ways to use these prints. Every torn or cut piece, every overlapping layer feels like building a puzzle where the pieces don’t quite match but somehow still fit together perfectly.
What I love most is the freedom—there are no rules. Sometimes I cut bold, bright prints into chunky shapes for a striking effect. Other times I cut softer pastel scraps, layering them to create depth and mood. The unexpected combinations always surprise me, and that’s where the magic happens.

Here are a few ways I use my gel print collages:

As wall art, creating big abstract pieces that feel both playful and expressive. I ofter start with a screen print or lithographic print that had faults or didn't print well and over layer it with cut up gel prints.
On handmade cards which always feel more personal and special. I usually make about 10 at a time.
In mixed media projects, where I add paint, ink or other print medium.
For scanning and printing, turning collages into digital designs for fabric or home décor. If you take a high resolution photograph you can upload the image and sell it on one of the site that deal in posters and wall art.

Every collage feels like a tiny adventure in colour and texture, and no two are ever the same. If you have a stack of gel prints waiting for a purpose, try collaging—you might find yourself hooked like I did.

A collage for a greeting card

Two gel prints glued onto a screen print 40x50 cm

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Discovering Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)

2025-09-12T06:00:00.001+02:00

Artist Trading Cards, or ATCs, are tiny pieces of art with a big creative punch. Measuring just 2.5 x 3.5 inches—about 6 x 9 mm —ATCs are designed to be swapped, collected, and shared with other artists.

What makes them special is their accessibility: anyone can make them, and there are no rules beyond the size. You’ll find ATCs created with paint, collage, printmaking, photography, fabric, or even mixed media.

The charm of ATCs lies in the community they foster. Artists often trade cards in person at meetups or online through swaps, which creates a fun, supportive network of creativity. It’s not about selling but about sharing—an exchange of ideas and styles captured on a miniature canvas.

For beginners, ATCs are a perfect way to experiment. The small format makes them less intimidating than a large canvas, and because they’re meant to be traded, they encourage playfulness and freedom. Many artists use them as a way to test out techniques or repurpose scraps and leftover materials from bigger projects.

Why not use them as a business card? Each one will be different but that's what makes them a bit special - more personal.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, making ATCs can spark inspiration, build connections, and add a new dimension to your creative practice.

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This was made using gel printing and finished with collage strips

Why I Love Making Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)

2025-09-11T06:00:00.001+02:00

I started making ATCs a few years ago, and I was instantly hooked. There’s something so fun about working on such a tiny surface—just 2.5 x 3.5 inches. It feels manageable, almost like a creative sketchbook page, but in miniature. I could try out new techniques, play with colour, or collage scraps I didn’t want to throw away, all without the pressure of filling a big canvas.
I started with oil paint. I rolled the paint onto a small sheet of glass and pulled some prints. The oil work well as it’s thick and sticky, so you get an instant rough surface, which prefer to a flat acrylic surface.

What I love most, though, is the spirit of sharing. ATCs aren’t meant to be sold—they’re made to be traded. I’ve swapped cards through the mail with people from all over the world, and it’s such a joy to hold a little piece of someone else’s creativity in my hands. Each card feels like a tiny gift, a personal expression that connects you with another artist in a really genuine way. I have also dreamed the little cards in small inexpensive frames. They look great hung in groups and make super gifts. So much better and personal than a bought gift.

ATCs have also taught me to loosen up and enjoy the process. Because they’re small, I don’t overthink them—I just dive in and see what happens. Sometimes they’re experiments, sometimes they’re little gems I’m proud of, but they’re always fun.

If you’ve never tried making ATCs, I can’t recommend it enough. You can cut card to size or buy ready made card. They are not expensive. Use whatever paints you have to hand and see what you get. You ad enhance your work with collage, ink, Posca pens or found objects before framing.

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ATC made using oil paint

Zines - what are they?

2025-09-09T04:00:00.001+02:00

I love paper. Ever since I started printing I love the feel and texture of paper. There are so many varieties of paper. Hands made, machine made, papers for different purposes, art, printing, tracing, watercolour etc etc. I love pepper with a texture. So many papers have a texture. Sometimes you won’t realise it until you touch it.
I have a lot of respect for paper. It is a natural material. Mostly made from wood pulp, but also from linen, cotton, grasses and so forth. I don’t like to waste paper. I keep scraps and use them for lists, for collage, just not throw paper away even if it’s going to be recycled.
I started making boxes and books to go in the boxes. I used to buy beautiful sheets of decorative paper to cover the books and the boxes.
I still make books and I cover them in my own prints. I also have a stock of screen prints that were not good enough to sell. (No waste please!) So I started cutting the unwanted printed paper up to make books and zines.

What are zines you may ask.

Zines are small, self-published booklets often made by hand or with simple printing methods. They can cover any topic—art, personal stories, politics, poetry, or just fun ideas. Zines are usually low-cost, creative, and meant to be shared in small numbers rather than mass-produced.
However I don’t make multiple zines with a particular message. I make no more than two and I am not particularly interested in passing on a message or my thoughts. I kind of like to make an attractive booklet and let people add their own thoughts.

Here is an example of one of my zines. Each page has a different mini art work. I made a presentation box covered in matching paper tied with a ribbon.

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The Joys of Screen Printing

2025-09-08T15:27:00.001+02:00

There’s something magical about screen printing. It’s a process that feels both old-school and endlessly creative, a mix of craft and play. Whether you’re printing your first tote bag or running a full edition of posters, the joy lies in the balance between control and surprise.

One of the biggest appeals of screen printing is its tactile nature. Unlike digital work, you’re working with ink, mesh, and squeegees—tools that demand a hands-on approach. Pulling ink across a screen is a physical act, and when you lift that screen to reveal your image, it’s always a small thrill. The imperfections, the texture, and the vibrancy of the colors make every print feel alive.

Screen printing also gives you freedom to experiment. You can play with layering colors, overlapping shapes, or even letting accidents become part of the design. Some artists love the crisp, clean lines; others embrace the unpredictability. Either way, you’re part of a long tradition of printmakers who have used this medium to spread ideas, create art, and share their vision with the world.

There’s also joy in the repeatability. Once your screen is prepared, you can print your design again and again—on paper, fabric, or wood. This makes it perfect for creating your own clothing, home décor, or even small business products. It’s a satisfying way to see your ideas take on a physical life outside the sketchbook.

At its heart, screen printing is joyful because it’s both simple and limitless. You don’t need a huge setup to get started, and yet the possibilities stretch as far as your imagination. The first pull of the squeegee might hook you, and before long, you’ll be looking for every blank surface you can print on.

This is a three colour screen print.

It is based on a photograph I took while I was travelling in Jordan.

Jordan is a wonderful country, full of old ruins and interesting scenery.

Plus the people are welcoming and friendly.

I loved Jordan and would love to make a return visit someday.

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Beginner’s Guide to Etching

2025-09-06T15:01:00.003+02:00

Etching is a traditional printmaking technique that combines drawing, chemistry, and craftsmanship to create beautiful, detailed images. While it may seem intimidating at first, beginners can absolutely get started with a few basics and a curious spirit.

A two colour etching. Printed first in blue then the plate inked up in purple

and turned 180' before making the second pass.

What is Etching?
Etching is a type of intaglio printmaking. Instead of drawing on the surface, the artist scratches lines into a metal plate (often copper or zinc) which has ben coated with varnish on both sides. Acid is then used to “bite” into the exposed lines, creating grooves. Ink is pushed into these grooves, and when paper is pressed onto the plate with a printing press, the image transfers.

What You’ll Need:

A metal plate (copper or zinc is most common)
A ground (a waxy, acid-resistant coating)
Etching needle or scribe to draw into the ground
Acid bath (ferric chloride for copper, nitric acid for zinc)
Ink and tarlatan (a type of cloth for wiping)
An etching press and dampened paper

Basic Steps:

Prepare the plate – Polish and degrease it.
Apply the ground – Coat the plate with a waxy resist. on both sides
Draw your design – Scratch through the ground on the polished side with a needle.
Etch in acid – The acid bites into the exposed lines.
Ink and wipe – Push ink into the etched lines, then wipe the surface clean.
Print – Place the plate and damp paper through the press to reveal your image.

Tips for Beginners:

Start with simple line drawings before experimenting with tones and textures.
Keep notes on how long you leave the plate in acid—this affects line depth.
Always follow safety procedures with acids and inks.

Etching is a slow, hands-on process, but the results can be breathtaking. Every print pulled from the press feels like a little piece of magic.

Some people wear gloves to keep their hands clean. The inks yu use are oil based. If you use acrylic it will dry almos immediately with the heat of the plate. However when it comes to cleaning the surplus ink off the plate, you can firstly use a piece of tarlatan or newspaper. After that it’s best to use the side of your hand. That way you won’t take too much out of the lines but you’ll clean the open areas. The hand is the best method. Therefore you hands will get dirty. I rub a little Vaseline into my hands and nails before I start work. This is absorbed into the skin and makes it easier to clean your hands with warm soapy water afterwards.

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Lithography: A Beginner’s Guide to This Classic Printmaking Art

2025-09-05T10:17:00.001+02:00

Lithography is one of the most fascinating and historic printmaking techniques. Developed in the late 18th century, it was once the medium of choice for artists like Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso, and Käthe Kollwitz. Today, it remains a powerful way to create rich, textured prints with endless creative possibilities. If you’re curious about getting started, here’s what you need to know.

What is Lithography?

At its core, lithography works on the principle that oil and water don’t mix. Traditionally, artists draw directly onto a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy medium. The surface is then treated chemically so that the drawn areas attract ink while the blank areas repel it. When dampened, the plate or stone can be rolled with ink and pressed to paper, producing beautiful, repeatable images.

What You’ll Need to Begin

Lithography does require some specialised tools and materials. If you’re new, it’s worth joining a community print studio where the heavy equipment is already available. Basic essentials include:

Lithographic stones or aluminum plates (stones are traditional, plates are more accessible)
Grease-based drawing materials (litho crayons, tusche, or greasy pencils)
Etching and processing chemicals (often gum arabic and nitric acid in small amounts)
A litho press (to transfer the image cleanly onto paper)
High-quality paper and inks

The Process in Simple Steps

Prepare the surface – Grind and smooth the stone or plate.
Draw your image – Use greasy crayons, ink washes, or tusche to make your design.
Process the surface – Apply a chemical solution to fix the drawing and make the surface ink-receptive only where intended.
Dampen and ink – Wet the stone, roll on ink, and watch as the drawn areas take it up while the blank areas stay clean.
Print – Place dampened paper on top and run it through the press.

That is the basic process and there are many ways to use a lithographic stone with various mediums.

It is a bit time consuming. However once you learn the technique it is a wonderful means of reproducing original prints much faster than etching with the advantage that every print will be the same.

You might get hooked, like I did!

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This is a combination lithograph and etching. The small image in the middle is an etching and the large surround is a two colour lithograph.

Lithography - An age old form of printing

2025-09-04T10:45:00.002+02:00

Why Try Lithography?

Lithography offers a unique combination of freedom and control. You can work with detailed line drawing, painterly washes, or bold, graphic shapes. The textures and layers are unlike anything digital printing can replicate. Plus, it connects you with centuries of printmaking tradition.

Tips for Beginners

Start by taking a workshop—handling the materials makes everything click.
Work at a shared print studio if possible, since presses and stones are heavy and expensive.
Don’t be afraid of mistakes; lithography is as much about learning the process as making finished prints.

Lithography can feel a little intimidating at first, but once you’ve tried it, the magic of seeing your first image come off the press is unforgettable. Whether you’re an artist, a printmaker, or just someone curious about traditional crafts, lithography is a rewarding way to combine drawing, chemistry, and creativity.

Next post will be a beginners guide on how to start the process of lithographic printing

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This is a lithographic print from a drawing made while I was on holidays in Greece.

Playing with Gel Prints and Collage

2025-09-01T10:30:00.001+02:00

One of the things I love most about gel printing is the element of surprise. You roll on some paint, maybe add a stencil or press in a texture, pull the paper off the plate—and suddenly you’ve got something completely unexpected. Sometimes the print is gorgeous on its own, but a lot of the time I end up with papers that feel more like “hmm, interesting.” And that’s where collage comes in.

Why They Work So Well Together
Gel prints make the best collage material. All those textures, smudges, and layers of color become these beautiful little building blocks. Even the “not-so-pretty” prints take on new life when you rip them up and layer them with others. It’s like every scrap has potential—you just need to find where it fits.

Here’s how I usually do it.

Grab your print papers – The more variety, the better.
Tear or cut – Sometimes I go for rough edges, sometimes clean shapes.
Play around – I move pieces around on my base until it starts to look reight. try to get a balance. It feels a bit like solving a puzzle—very intuitive.

Glue it down – Once it looks right, glue it. Sometimes I add bits of twine, wool, sticks etc.

What I love about combining gel printing and collage is how freeing it feels. There’s no pressure for it to be perfect. You’re just layering, experimenting, and letting the unexpected guide you. And the end result is always something completely yours, because no one else has those exact prints or pieces.

I like ot use what I've made. So generally I make cards. These are always useful when you are giving someone a little gift. Everyone can buy a card, but making cards is so much more personal. It shows you've actually thought of this person. And cards can be framed afterwards which makes it a double gift!

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Scraps of prints

A selection of cards

From Still Images to Moving Art with AI

2025-08-31T17:03:00.004+02:00

AI is making it easier than ever to create unique, eye-catching pictures. With tools like MidJourney, you can type in a simple prompt—“a neon city floating in the clouds” or “a cat dressed as a pirate”—and get back detailed, professional-looking images in seconds. You don’t need drawing skills or expensive software, just your imagination and a few words are enough to spark incredible results.
The fun lies in experimenting, seeing unexpected outcomes, and letting AI help you capture ideas you might never have been able to sketch by hand.

But the magic doesn’t have to stop with a still image. MidJourney now lets you animate those creations directly into short video clips. With a single click on the Animate button, your static picture can turn into a living scene—a camera slowly panning through your neon city, or your pirate cat swaying as if caught by the wind. You can keep it subtle with gentle motion or go bold with dramatic shifts, creating clips up to 21 seconds long. In just minutes, your AI art transforms into a moving story, ready to share online or keep as a fun creative project.

Here take a look at this picture I generated with MidJourney.

Now take a look at the clip I made with the picture

I hope the video works ok for you. It looked like it should work when I uploaded it but let me know if there are any issues.

Thanks

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Gel printing is good for your health

2025-08-30T14:05:00.005+02:00

In recent years, creative practices have become increasingly recognised for their role in supporting mental health. Among these practices, gel printing — a playful and versatile form of mono-printing using a gel plate—has gained popularity not only for its artistic possibilities but also for the therapeutic benefits it offers. Unlike traditional printmaking, Gel printing requires minimal equipment and expertise, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned artists alike. Beyond creating vibrant textures and layers, the process can nurture emotional well-being in powerful ways.

The tactile nature of rolling paint, placing stencils, and pulling prints from the gel plate invites us to fully engage in the moment. Much like meditation, Gel printing draws attention away from rumination and into the present. The rhythmic actions—rolling, layering, lifting—can help calm the nervous system and promote a sense of flow, where worries temporarily fade.
Unlike traditional art forms that may feel intimidating, gel printing is inherently experimental. Every print is unique, often unpredictable, and sometimes delightfully surprising. This playful quality reduces the pressure to create something “perfect” and instead emphasises exploration. Engaging in low-stakes play has been shown to lower cortisol levels and alleviate stress, making Gel printing a valuable outlet for relaxation.

I personally find that the unexpected results give me the most pleasure. The fact that some prints doesn't turn out well reminds me that life is full of the unexpected. Not every day is a good day. Not everyone is nice. Few people are in tip top healthy all the time. So we have ups and downs, good and bad days, happiness and sadness. But artistic and creative persuits are good for the mind and body.

Below are two prints to illustrate my good and poor results. The blue print I made with cut out stencils and I limited my colour palette. I was really happy with the result. The second pink and black was made using a photo transfer using cut up magazines. Then the final print pulled with a pink mix. It's not great is it? But hey thats life. Some things work and some don't. I try to learn from my mistakes or from something that went wrong. For me, it's not a wasted print, it's a learning process. I get so much value from the creative process that it's not time wasted or paint wasted. No, quite the opposite, it's time well spent doing something I enjoy and I feel relaxed and calm after I've been printing.

Do you feel the same? Does being creative have a calming effect for you? Do you find yourself in a better mental state during or after your time spent in your art studio?

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