Getting to the Crux of Zentangle Patterns

I love the Diva’s weekly Zentangle® challenges, they are definitely challenging and keep me inspired and motivated to move beyond my normal Zentangle® practices and same old patterns! Some are more challenging than others, this week was a challenging one for me. We were to practice creating the tangle pattern Crux, beautifully designed by Henrike Bratz.

I love the word Crux, although my definition may not be the same as Henrike’s. Here are three dictionary definitions of the word:

Crux was definitely a puzzling problem for me. I always struggle with complex grid patterns, preferring more free-form, organic patterns. It took me a couple of days to feel like I was making progress. In my first attempt, in the tile above with the colored background, I failed miserably.

Practice Makes Perfect

So I got out my gorgeous journal from my Certified Zentangle Teacher seminar in June and spent some time practicing. Practicing my Zentangle patterns isn’t always something I make time for. I tend to try them out right away in new tiles – this tangle pattern taught me to take my time!

Last night, my daughter and I put together this cute paper flower wreath from Paper Source. I used the template left over from the flowers as my “string” and filled each one with a variation of Crux. It was better, more fun but still need to work. I definitely needed to focus and go slowly, two tenets of Zentangle® practice.

Finally, I pulled out a new Bijou® tile to do a monotangle with Crux. I am getting there, this was my most fun version yet and I have been playing with the color yellow a lot this week so added it to my crosses. I love the tiny new Bijou tiles and am discovering that they are delightful for working on individual Zentangle patterns.

Zentangle definitely teaches me to be patient, focus, breathe and relax into the process!

Wondering what is Zentangle?

You might be asking, “What on earth is a Zentangle?” According to founders Rick and Maria Thomas, “Zentangle is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Almost anyone can use it to create beautiful images. It increases focus and creativity, providing artistic satisfaction along with an increased sense of personal well-being. The Zentangle® method is enjoyed all over this world across a wide range of skills, interests and ages.”

Sound like fun? I offer private Zentangle classes in Santa Barbara, CA or virtually via Skype. You can email me for details.