How to Paint Zentangle Patterns on Rocks and Stones

Supplies 

• Smooth stones
• Acrylic paints
• Artist's pens (I used this set of pens which I like because it contains different pen tips and 3 colors of ink - black, brown and gray.) (Note: since the date of this post, I now prefer Pigma Micron pens for use on rocks.)

Pro Art Artists Pens - Set of 8

• Zentangle patterns (If you're new to the Zentangle method, "Joy of Zentangle" has simple explanations and step-by-step patterns.)

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How I Tangled the Stones

First, I primed the rocks with white, acrylic paint.

Stones primed with white, acrylic paint

Next, I thinned my turquoise blue paint with a little water and tinted the primed stone.

 

Based on the shape of this stone, I chose the Ammon Zentangle pattern from the "Joy of Zentangle" book and drew it with the black artist pen. I chose a darker blue acrylic to paint the shapes within the sections of the tangle.

To add a little dimension, I used the gray pen from the Artist Pens 8-piece set and outlined the black swirl.

I painted three more stones but this time I did not thin the acrylic paint with water.

I combined all four Zentangle patterns on one stone and used the black and gray artist pens on a white background.

I enjoy painting tangles on stones after I've painted a detailed rock. It's a relaxing way to prepare for my next rock painting project and allows me to be creative in a simple way.

Tips

• Smooth stones are best
• Micron pens are normally used when creating tangles on paper. I find the fine, metal tips of these pens can scratch the acrylic paint from the rock and the pen's tip can be damaged by the rock
• Use a pattern which works well with the shape of your stone
• Don't worry about being perfect. Incorporate any mistakes into the design
• Do not seal your rocks with brush-on sealers when using artists pens or Sharpies. Most times the ink will bleed and your beautiful creation will be ruined. Learn about my spray-on sealer preference

Useful Links

• Joy of Zentangle - Drawing Your Way to Increased Creativity, Focus, and Well-Being
• Zentangle® untangled 
• Doodles, Tangles and Patterns Pinterest Board
• Learn more about Zentangle®

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© Cindy Thomas Painted Rocks