The Zentangle Method
The Zentangle® Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. It was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas. “Zentangle” is a registered trademark of Zentangle, Inc. Learn more at zentangle.com.
The patterns are abstract, there is no up or down, or left or right and the patterns are designed so that the repitition of the purposeful pen strokes have a calming, meditative effect, through hyper-focus.
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What is a CZT
This is a Certified Zentangle Teacher (CZT). They provide guidance and allow the sharing of techniques, that have been developed by Zentangle Inc. There are about 8000 CZTs globally. A CZT offers structure, and tips and techniques to get the most out of turning this practice into something you can do easily at home.
Some CZTs offer online sessions or resources you can tangle along from on YouTube, for example.
You can join a group that meets regularly, a one off session on a particular tangle, or design, or simply a course that introduces you to the key concepts which you can develop into your unique style such as Zentangle Inspired Art, which may be more representaional and incorporate more artistic media.
How do I start at home?
Its usually easier to start on a course, or a workshop so you experience the Zentangle Method by a CZT. You can then decide to carry on at home or feel its more beneficial to explore it within a group setting.
The easiest way to get some pointers is to join an introduction class, where you will experience how the tools work for you, and what the steps are in practice.
To get started, you’ll need:
- A fine liner pen: The Sakura Pigma Micron 01 is recommended for its precision and archival-quality ink. The Unipin Fine Line by Mitsubishi Pen Company is also great value.
- Tiles: Small, square card tiles. They provide a defined space for your art. Zentangle Inc. sell them, and you can buy them from Amazon, though any quality cotton or superior card stock, around 300gms, that is acid free and fairly smooth so the pen can flow well will work.. Zentangle Inc has researched and produces their own brand, made of cotton. There are variety of sizes and colours.
- A pencil: For drawing borders and adding shading a quality graphite pencil, that is B or 2B works well. You are encouraged to find a half length pencil, as this feels good in the palm of one’s hand, and is easy to use.
- A Tortillon: Also called a smudger, this is a rolled up paper stick you can buy or make. Instructions to make them are on this page.
The 8 Steps of the Zentangle Method
- Gratitude and Appreciation: Begin with a moment of gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to create.
- Mark in the corner dots in pencil.
- Draw a border: Using your pencil, lightly draw a square border on your tile joining the corner dots.
- Draw a String: Within the border, draw a light, abstract line or curve to divide the space.
- Draw Your Tangles: Using your pen, fill each section with a different pattern, one stroke at a time.
- Add Shading: Use your pencil to add shading, enhancing depth and dimension. Use the tortillon to add dimension.
- Initial and Sign: Add your initials on the front and sign the back of your tile.
- Appreciate Your Work: Take a moment to admire your creation.