During this week’s Instagram LIVE session on Monday, a participant asked a great question: "How do you know which tangles to use together?" This is a common confusion for beginners in tangling, and I was no exception. Over time and with practice, I discovered a simple formula that I always use when composing my projects.

My Simple Formula for Tangling

Contrasting Tangles: I aim to place contrasting tangles next to each other to create balance. By "contrasting," I mean pairing different types of tangles such as:

Line-based tangles with dark drama tangles.
Floral tangles with line-based tangles.
Organic tangles with grid tangles.
Organic fragments within a grid.

There are numerous ways to apply this formula, and the best way to see how each combination works is by trying them out.

Another way I plan my composition is by using a Hero Tangle.
So, when creating a classic Zentangle without a specific theme, I choose one or two "hero" tangles. These could be any tangle, but on the tile they are my main tangles, and the other tangles play around them, enhancing the overall composition.

By following this approach, you can create balanced and visually appealing Zentangle art. Keep experimenting and you'll find the combinations that work best for you! Don’t forget to share your creations with me.