Zentangle is an abstract image created using repeated patterns according to the registered trademark Zentangle Method. True zentangles are always made in 9 cm squares and use black ink on white paper. Zentangle® was created to make drawing fun, contemplative and accessible to everyone. See Step 1 to start creating the Zentangle.
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Part 1 of 2: Learning the Zentangle Method
Step 1. Learn the basics of Zentangle
Zentangle is a patterned abstract drawing created based on the principles of the Zentangle method. Using the standard format of a 9-centimeter square, the artist creates a structured pattern of his own accord, following only a set of simple guidelines. To become a Zentangle artist, you don't need any particular technology, materials, or education. The following are some of the characteristics of a Zentangle:
- The box has no “up” or “down” direction – it has no “orientation”.
- Zentangle should be an abstract image and not represent a specific recognizable object.
- Zentangle drawings must be created using black ink on white paper.
- The Zentangle is supposed to be “portable” so you can build it any time you want.
Step 2. See how Zentangle differs from other art forms
The Zentangle method is very different from ordinary drawing, painting, or any other art form. Zentangle was created to be an artistic form of meditation that can be practiced by everyone. The process of creating the Zentangle is as important as the final product, which is prized for its unique beauty. Zentangle's creations follow the following philosophical principles:
- Its creation was not planned. When you start creating a Zentangle, it's not advisable to have a picture of the end result in your mind. Instead, just let your Zentangle pattern form on its own as you draw.
- A Zentangle was created confidently, but unexpectedly. Each line must be drawn with confidence, not with hesitation. Instead of erasing accidental doodles, the artist should use them as the foundation for an unexpected pattern.
- Its creation was “a celebration”. Like meditation, the Zentangle Method was created so that the practitioner can experience liberation and healing. It is a way to celebrate the beauty of life.
- A "timeless" Zentangle. Zentangle does not use any special technology or tools. Zentangle's drawings connect their creators with timeless writing on paper.
Step 3. Understand the difference between a Zentangle and a doodle
Many people make doodles – sometimes very beautiful – on the edges of notebooks or on scrap paper. Doodles are usually created when the creator is unable to focus on something else that is going on, such as a lecture in class or a phone call. While the best doodles may look like a Zentangle, they are actually very different things. Here are the differences:
- The Zentangle method demands maximum focus. Unlike in doodle drawing, the person creating a Zentangle drawing must give his or her undivided, undivided attention. A Zentangle cannot be created while calling other people or listening to a lecture in class, because focus is a fundamental element in this art form.
- The Zentangle method is a “ceremonial”, because the Zentangle requires the artist's full attention. Zentangle should be made in a quiet place where focus and earnestness can be achieved. The paper and pens used should be of the highest quality, as Zentangle is an art that can be enjoyed for a long time.
Step 4. Learn about the artists who created them
The Zentangle method was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas, when they discovered that the activity of drawing abstract patterns within the boundaries of a few ground rules can be very contemplative and relaxing.
- To teach the Zentangle Method, you must have a Zentangle Teacher certificate.
- There are over a hundred official Zentangles. If you want to follow one of the original Zentangle drawings, there are online tutorials, books, and kits for purchase. Works that are similar to Zentangle but don't follow the official guidelines are works inspired by Zentangle.
Part 2 of 2: Creating Your Own Zentangle
Step 1. Start with the correct equipment
In the Zentangle Method, it is recommended to use good quality printed paper as the basis for the Zentangle image. The paper should be pure white, not lined. Cut the paper into 9-centimeter squares.
- You can use handmade or textured paper, as long as it's not patterned.
- You can also use colored paper if you wish, but it is not considered a real Zentangle according to the Zentangle Method.
Step 2. Create boundaries
Use a pencil to draw a thin square border along the edges of your paper. The pattern you create will be drawn within the boundary line. Do not use a ruler or the like to draw your outline. Just draw lightly near the edge of your paper.
- Don't worry if your hand isn't consistent when you draw the line. This boundary line is the unique boundary within which your pattern will form. If these boundaries have wavy or uneven lines, your Zentangle will end up being even more unique.
- Don't use too much pressure when you draw the outline with your pencil. This border should be invisible when you've finished creating your Zentangle with the pen.
Step 3. Draw a rope
Take your pencil and draw a “string” within your outline. According to the Zentangle Method, a “string” is a curved or curly line that will provide structure to your design. The pattern you create will appear according to the contours of this “string”. This rope should be an abstract, simple shape that is drawn thinly and divides your outline into specific areas.
- Again, don't apply too much pressure when drawing this string with your pencil. This strap is just a guideline that shouldn't be visible once your Zentangle is complete.
- Some people may have difficulty deciding how to draw this rope. Keep in mind that the philosophy behind the Zentangle says that creating a Zentangle should feel fun, natural, and celebratory. Just draw whatever comes to mind when you touch a pencil to paper – there's no wrong way to do it.
- If you need ideas on how to draw various ropes, there are rope patterns you can look up on the internet.
Step 4. Start making a tangle
Tangle is a pattern drawn using a pen along the contour of the rope. A Zentangle can consist of one tangle, or it can be a combination of several different tangles. Use your pen to start drawing whatever pattern comes to mind – again, there's no right or wrong step in creating a Zentangle. As you work, keep the following in mind:
- Tangle should consist of very simple shapes. This can be a straight line, point, circle, oval, or curly line.
- You can add pencil shading to your tangle to give it even more depth and visual beauty. It doesn't have to be, but you can do it if you want.
Step 5. Don't erase the mistakes you made
You can't erase mistakes made with a pen. This is why tangles are created using a pen instead of a pencil, apart from any shading you might add.
- Each tangle is made stroke by stroke. Pay attention to every stroke you make, and build your pattern with confidence.
- Focus on your work. Like when you are meditating, free your mind from worries and problems. Remember that the creation of a Zentangle should feel like a ceremony.
Step 6. Keep drawing until you are done
You'll know for yourself when it's time to put down your pen. Store your Zentangle in a safe place, or frame it and flaunt it so you can continue to enjoy it.
Step 7. (Optional) Once your grid is complete, you can add color to your image
But remember, this is not part of Zentangle's official instructions.
