How to Transfer Photos onto Panels with Gel Medium – Demo with Mary

How to Transfer Photos onto Panels with Gel Medium – Demo with Mary

Today, I had the pleasure of attending a special demonstration on art print techniques at our Night Heron Artists meeting. The session was led by Mary, our incredibly talented and generous vice president, who shared her method for creating professional-looking prints using gel medium and mounted panels.

Watching Mary’s process—from preparing the surface, applying Liquitex Matte Gel, placing and smoothing the print, to sealing the image—was both educational and inspiring. The step-by-step demo was clear and hands-on, and seeing the results in person made me appreciate the depth and texture that this method can bring to printed work.

I’m always grateful for the supportive and skill-sharing atmosphere of the Night Heron group. Today was a perfect reminder of how much we grow as artists when we learn from one another.
​
Thank you so much, Mary, for your generosity and expertise. I can’t wait to experiment with this technique in my own work.

One of the key takeaways from the demo was the importance of applying the gel medium evenly and thoroughly—not just on the wood panel or paper surface, but also directly on the printed image. This step ensures strong adhesion and a smooth, bubble-free finish. Using a brush or even a credit card edge to press the print down firmly helps eliminate air pockets and results in a clean transfer.
​
Mary's technique was practical and easy to follow, and the results were impressive. She generously shared her tips, such as letting the piece dry thoroughly before gently removing the paper backing with water.