HAPPY NEW YEAR

Happy 2016 everyone.  Sorry it's been a few weeks since I last blogged...but hopefully back on track now.

For as long as I can remember, I have doodled.  Any scrap of paper, pen or pencil, and time to pass (probably why I don't do it as often now !!!), I sit and doodle.  It doesn't have to be a work of art, it is purely a therapeutic exercise, which may produce something that is shareable.

 

A few years ago, zentangling hit the craft world and became extremely popular, and subsequently colouring books for adults, so even if you don't feel able to doodle and create your own patterns, you can still de-stress by colouring in pre-drawn patterns.

For this project, I decided to draw around some number templates, overlapping them.  Then I drew around the outline with a black pen and divided the numbers into smaller segments in which to create individual patterns.  You will need to use a pen with a good flow of ink.

You will find lots of inspiration for your patterns on the internet and also Pinterest, the possibilities are endless.
And don't get hung about about 'neatness', it would defeat the object.

When you've filled all your segments with varying patterns, some more solid than others, you may choose to add a little colour, or simply leave monochrome.  Whilst I have drawn in black, on white card, white pen on black card looks stunning.

This card was from a very good friend Christmas 2014.  She has added interest by angling her mats, using some punched snowflakes and of course some sparkle.


These particular stamps are by Woodware, and Stampendous also have a range called Pentangle. 

The lower four examples are currently a work in progress....like many things, I need to make time to finish them off :) 

So, what are you waiting for ?  It's very therapeutic and helps you unwind.  You don't need any specialist equipment, and it can be done anywhere, anytime.  If nothing else, make time for yourself to do the things you enjoy in 2016.

ta ta for now
Christine