I've long considered white pen on black tiles the weak link in my Zentangle chain. I love how it can look in the right hands, but I was never truly satisfied with my own results. And because I wasn't satisfied I rarely tangled using that combination. Every now and then I would try a black tile, and admittedly my results improved a little over the years.
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| The sum total of my black tiles from 2016-2017 |
That last tile came closest, and
I posted it here last October. At that time Zentangle HQ released their Project Pack #1 videos to celebrate the release of a new finer white Gelly Roll 05. I felt that the finer pen might be what I needed but I had to wait a while for it to reach the UK. In the end I had to contact my
favourite online pen vendor and politely request they stock it!
Since my pen arrived I have set aside a little time each week to try a black tile. I've reminded myself throughout about the core values of the Zentangle method - taking time, appreciating the opportunity, the tools. I've worked slowly and deliberately, but also without planning. White on black is different than black on white. The ink moves differently, dries slower. Highlights and shadows rewrite the rules. Even making images of the finished tiles is more challenging. But I think the results are worth it.
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Not a tangle - just a pattern based on a top a woman
in the background on a new story was wearing! |
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| Fili - tangled during a rare fall of snow, mid February |
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| Bands of Mooka, filled with Shattuck, with a touch of Flux |
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| Simply Molygon |
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I'm not sure I believe that practice makes perfect - who wants perfect? But practice makes my technique stronger which makes me enjoy the process and the results.
Very interesting to see white pen on black tiles. Love your results.
ReplyDeleteBut you're very naughty cuz now I'll have to go off and investigate the new white GR pen from Cult Pens (who I agree are brilliant).
Thank you for this as well as your recent comments Sarn. It's lovely to know there is a 'local' dropping in to read my posts - it's rare to find fellow company this side of the Atlantic!
DeleteWow! These are all stunning Jem! I'm always intimidated by the black tiles and cringe whenever I'm challenged to create one. I finally got my mitts on the 05 and 10 white gelly rolls last week. One of my Travelling Tangles friends sent me a pre-strung black zendala ages ago as a little bonus gift and I've managed to avoid it for so long. You have inspired me...once again;-) Many thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks Michele. Yes, I know your feelings - when I've received black tiles in swaps I've always done a big intimdated Kermit frog swallow and proceeded to make a mess.
DeleteIn my opinion the 05 really helps. As does taking it really slowly. Adding a little here, little there. And not trying to achieve anything akin to black on white. It's a different beast - different rules!
Black beauties!!!! All of them, I love each and every one. I hate drawing on black, but having seen those, you, once again, challenge me. However, don't hold your breath, it may still take a few years, but at least my negativity about black tiles is on the mend.
ReplyDeleteI never use 05's for drawings except when I want to emphasize a line. But your tiles tell me I don't need to draw the same way I do with my 005, one tangle per tile...
Thanks for your visit Susie. Yes, it's a different game altogether. Much thicker line - even the 05 white, compared to my usual 01 black. I never use the 005 black so you will find the white way thicker. I think you are right that less tangles is best. At least for me. More like a showcase for one or two to shine! Have fun when you get to it!
DeleteAll your black tiles are lovely. I really like the shiny bits coming out of the leaf tangle. I'll have to try this. Thanks for sharing.
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