Zentangles: Doodles becoming art

It is no secret that I am a compulsive doodler. When I have the time, I'm sketching and drawing, and it's always been so. In school, I took notes around my doodles. So where is the line between doodling and art?

Well, it's somewhere between this:

And this:

First, I used better quality paper and inks. I also utilized colored pencils to make it better. Doodling inspires the artwork, which in turn inspires the doodles. I can experiment in the doodles to find the patterns that work for my hands (especially in the simple/complex patterning of the zentangle). The doodle will fade and the paper will curl. The art uses archival-quality inks and acid-free paper, which will help it have a longer life.

Both, however, keep the mind occupied and calm in times of stress. I suggest people try zentangles. Start with simple repeating patterns, and then try more and more until you have a wonderful piece of art... or doodle.

Happy crafting!
Liz