Crafting Joy: DIY Mobile with Gelli Plate Prints and Embroidery Hoop

Welcome, craft enthusiasts! If you’re looking to add a touch of whimsy to your space, I have the perfect DIY project for you – a delightful DIY mobile featuring Gelli Plate prints utlising an embroidery hoop as the mobile frame.

This DIY mobile combines the vibrant, unpredictable charm of Gelli Plate printing with the classic elegance of embroidery hoops, resulting in a unique and eye-catching piece that can instantly brighten any room. 

Follow along as I guide you through the mobile project: the materials needed, step-by-step instructions, and answers to commonly asked questions. Let’s embark on this creative journey together and turn simple materials into a personalized masterpiece!

Materials Needed for your DIY mobile:

1. Gelli Plate: Choose a size that suits your desired mobile dimensions.
2. Acrylic Paints: An array of colors to bring life to your prints.
3. Brayer: For evenly spreading paint on the Gelli Plate.
4. Paper: Use smooth, sturdy paper for Gelli Plate printing.
5. Embroidery Hoop: Select a hoop that complements your space.
6. Permanent Markers: to add decoration to the birds
7. Needle: Large enough for the embroidery floss.
8. Pair of Scissors: For cutting paper and embroidery floss.
9. Clear Nylon Thread or Fishing Line: To suspend the prints from the hoop.

Step-by-Step Instructions for your handmade mobile:

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Step 1: Prepare Papers for Mobile

The first thing is to prep papers for your mobile. I am choosing to work with gelli plate prints but you could use other colored papers as an alternative. The paper you use needs to have some weight about it so it’s not too flimsy to work with.

• Apply a thin, even layer of acrylic paint onto the Gelli Plate using the brayer.

• Place a sheet of paper (I suggest a minimum 90 grams in weight) onto the plate and press down gently to transfer the paint.

• Experiment with layering colors and textures for a dynamic effect. I have chosen to work with contrasting colors, to create a vibrant and colorful mobile

• Allow the prints to dry completely before cutting them into desired shapes.

Step 2. Cut Out Bird Shapes and assemble

• The next step is to download and print bird templates or make your own.

• Cut out the bird shapes along with eyes, tails and wings.

Using a glue stick assemble each bird.

Step 3: Drawing Details

• Add details to your bird designs. I have added white around the eyes, a black pupil and dots to the wings.

Step 4: Creating Hanging Strings

• Cut different lengths of clear nylon thread or fishing line.
• Tie one end securely to the hoop, adjusting the lengths for a balanced look.

• Using a needle thread through the center of the fold of each bird, adding a knot just below to stop the bird from moving down the thread. If you think your paper may rip a great way you can strengthen it is by adding paper tape on the back. 

• Attach to the embroidery hoop, I wrapped the thread round several times, keeping about 50cms spare for hanging the mobile.

Step 5: Hang the Mobile

• Hold it up to make sure the mobile hangs evenly and then tie all the threads together in a knot, in the center of the hoop. 
• Finally, thread wooden beads through the four threads to the knot.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I use different types of paper for Gelli Plate printing?

• Absolutely! Experiment with various paper textures to achieve different effects. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the paint.

Q2: How do I clean the Gelli Plate?

• Simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth between color changes or after each printing session. Avoid using harsh chemicals.

Q3: Can I paint the embroidery hoop?

• Yes, feel free to paint or stain the hoop to match your style. Ensure it’s dry before attaching the Gelli Plate prints.

Q4: Where can I display my mobile?

• Your DIY mobile will look charming in any well-lit area, such as near a window, in a nursery, or as a focal point in your living space.

Your unique mobile makes a great whimsical touch to any baby nursery plus a wonderful gift.

DIY mobiles are a great project to show off various textures and prints from gelli printing. If you are inspired by gelli printing check out my 25 great projects for gelli prints.

As it’s approaching the holiday season my mind is wandering to the possibility of gelli printed birds as hanging decor on a Christmas tree, they would be a great addition to your decor items.