Tangling on Black Tiles Through the Years

Molly writes...

When we first explored making black Zentangle tiles in 2011, my initial thought was that it would be the same as working on white paper, just the reverse. However, once we started experimenting with black papers and white pens, I was quickly proven wrong. 

Once I realized that it was not the same as working on white tiles, my interest was piqued. I knew we had to dig into this different way of expressing tangles. At first, our attempts were basic. We were gathering information through our experiences. We stuck mostly to using white ink. Trying to process how the tangles paired with the materials was exciting. These early experiments were graphic and bold; each stroke seemed more pronounced and less nuanced than our white tile tangling. The result was eye-catching, almost like pop art. We were thrilled with the tiles that were created.

One of the things we explored early on was how different papers yielded different results. We landed on a cotton paper similar to the one we used for our white tiles. We liked the softness of the surface and the way the gel pen created a lighter, uneven stroke that added visual interest. It was perfect for our black Zentangle tiles. Then, a few years later, we began experimenting with smoother papers. We liked these too! Though different, there was something to be appreciated with this surface. The gel pens seemed to glide faster and sit up on the paper’s surface. The result was vivid, with an edge. We decided to offer this smoother paper as part of our Apprentice line. We now had options, and our explorations continued.

One of the cool tricks we discovered with black tiles is that you can layer gel ink with black Micron ink. We call this technique “Houdini.” Because the black ink is the same color as the paper, it appears to make parts of the ink disappear, just like a magic trick. You can see in these tile examples that areas seem to be cut out. It’s fun, and once you see the potential of this technique, you will sneak it into your process and discover more ways to use it. 

Graphite and the General’s Charcoal white pencil also became predominant players in the black tile game. Layering graphite over gel ink was different and new and led to complex shadow and dimension. We realized that we could apply graphite first to the paper and then work with pen over that. The black surface completely changes the way the graphite and colored chalk display on the paper. The effects are rich and ominous.

As time went on, we added more tools to our black tile toolbox. From mesmerizing metallics to fun fluorescents and poppy pastels, our vision for working on dark surfaces morphed. Color is so electric when paired with a dark surface.

What we learned was that expanding your Zentangle practice by introducing new materials is not a linear process; rather, it is an exciting opportunity to explore tangling in all directions. Once you are comfortable with the basics of the 8 Steps and have a solid understanding of a variety of tangles, experimenting with different materials can help you see how specific textures and colors influence the way a tangle appears. If you are new to working on black tiles, we recommend Zentangle Project Pack No. 01, which is a great introduction and uses white ink on black tiles, as well as Project Pack No. 08, which explores a fun palette of Gelly Roll Moonlight. We also have a complete black tile playlist on our YouTube channel, filled with inspiring and informative black tiles lessons.

We encourage tanglers to stay connected to the roots of the Method, but we also invite you to take chances, bend the rules, and see what unfolds. You might just surprise yourself. 

Shop this blog:

Limited Edition Black Tile Bundle (Available through March 30, 2026) | Zentangle Project Pack No. 01 | Zentangle Project Pack No. 08 | Zentangle Tile Tome | Black Tile Tangling Tools | YouTube: Black Tile Tangling