What is the procedure for using plain gelatin? In what type of recipes might you use gelatin?

you can use gelatin in many different recipes. Sometimes people just flavor the gelatin with like juice (jello). But gelatin needs time and heat to activate. So you want to heat it to about (i think) 120 degrees F. Don't quote me on that. But then when it hits 80 degrees it starts to solidify. You can make no bake cheesecakes, custards(non-traditional of course), or of course like jello salads. Theres really no rules on where you can't use gelatin. Hope this helps