Using masks with modeling paste makes it so much easier to selectively add colors. How exactly? Well, that’s the magic. Modeling paste is a very forgiving medium – you can pile it on or do a thin layer. Everything you need to know to start playing with modeling paste and four ways to bring in layers of color in in the video for you.

Creative play can be more than surface-level fun. These words are a way to listen in, to dig a little deeper, and to let whatever’s inside have its say.

Our art and play doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes, the messiest moments hold the biggest truths. We’re all a work in progress, and that’s exactly where the magic lives.

The Process

• Start by placing the stencil on the surface you’re using. I used tags, but modeling paste works on a wide variety of surfaces – really anything you want from a canvas to an art journal.
• Then get some water in a container for the stencils to soak in when you’re done. Yes, do this before you start. It’s important that the modeling paste does not dry on the stencil because it’s really hard to clean off once it’s dry. Ask me how I know…
• Spread the modeling paste over the stencil using an old hotel key card, an art spatula, or whatever you’ve got within arm’s reach.
• Thin or thick? It’s up to you! There’s no right or wrong, just how much texture you want.
• Let the modeling paste dry completely and then add color.

The perk of the masks and modeling paste is that after you add a layer of color, it’s a breeze to position the mask back on there. The modeling paste allows it to just set back into it’s original spot and then it’s ready for more color.

Just one layer of color or four? You guessed it, there’s no right or wrong- just how you like it. Oh, and since it’s so easy to put the stencil back on there, if tomorrow I decide to add another layer of color, it’s a breeze!

There’s more that you can do with modeling paste and stencils! In fact, there’s so much that you do with stencils that I created an entire workshop, The Joy of Stenciling. 20+ techniques, each step-by-step, and I’m there to answer any of your questions so you can get more out of the stencils and art supplies you already have!

Here are the supplies used. Some of these links may be affiliate links which means I may get a small percentage and it doesn’t cost you anything extra! And you get a really good feeling knowing that you are helping keep the free tutorials coming!

There’s a special kind of creative torture can happen when I’m almost finished with a piece—whether it’s a gel print or a journal page. Early on, I’m loose and playful, splashing color, layering texture, letting myself wander. BUT on that last layer, the pressure to “get it right” cranks up.

Suddenly, every mark feels permanent, every word feels like a commitment I might regret. That pressure can lead to decision paralysis. But I found a way around it when I’m adding a word.

A little cheat that takes away all the risk and it’s probably sitting in your desk drawer right now: Scotch tape. Yup, the stuff you get at the office supply store. that is wonderfully matte and disappears when you stick it down.

You start by gel printing the words. I’m using my Fragments of Your Soul stencil from StencilGirlProducts.com. This is a wee bit different from regular gel printing because you want the words right side up. Then add a thin layer of any color of paint you like and remove the stencil.

Once the paint is dry, use tape to lift up the words. Then you can audition them to see if they’re the word meant for that layer. If the tape is gently placed on top, it’s easy peasy to lift up if you change your mind. Once you like where it is, then press the tape down and it stays.

So why not just stencil the words straight on and skip the tape? Well, that step adds the hint of grunge that only a gel plate can! Farther down I’ve got a close up photo so you can see the details.

I store my tape words on a teflon sheet so they are at the ready when needed. They can stay plain or they have some color added!

The paint can be wet or dry on the gel plate and in the video you see it done both ways.

Sure, I could stencil the words directly onto the print, but by using the tape and a gel plate, I get a hint of grunge. The minor imperfections that make it blend in with the other layers.

The layers underneath show just a hair under the black of the word evolution. That’s why these words look like they “belong” on these index card gel prints.

The next time you feel creative paralysis creeping in, grab some tape and give yourself permission to play with the possibilities. There’s no right or wrong—just another playful detour on your creative journey.

Want more mixed media play, inspiration, and free weekly downloads? Then get signed up for my newsletter!

Supplies- Some of these links are affiliate links which means I get a small percentage. It doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps keep the free tutorials coming!