A beginner’s guide to a mindful Zentangle art practice
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Mindfulness isn't just about meditation. Explore the benefits behind having a Zentangle art practice and how to get started with this mindful drawing technique.
When life gets overwhelming, most of us want to reach for something that helps take the edge off. Scrolling socials, binging a TV show, or a heavy pour of wine are pretty common go-tos, but they aren’t always the healthiest of options. While your days of coloring or crafting may feel like they were left behind in elementary school, these creative practices can be pretty effective stress-relievers too.
Sadly, as adults, most of us put down these playful activities either because we think we aren’t very good at it or it feels like a “waste” of precious time. But the truth is that drawing can be a great mindfulness practice helping you to reduce stress, sharpen your focus, and flex your creativity muscles. And you don’t need any special skills or talents to tap into the benefits it brings.
Keep reading to explore how to get started with Zentangle art, a mindful drawing practice that can help you calm your mind and have a little bit of fun along the way.
What is Zentangle art?
Zentangle art is a structured drawing method designed to help you relax, focus, and enjoy the creative process. Unlike traditional drawing, Zentangle is based around simple, repetitive patterns called “tangles.” By combining these tangles within a small square shape, you can create intricate, abstract designs.
These patterns may look detailed and complex, but they’re made up of basic lines, curves, dots, and shapes that anyone can learn. This deceptive simplicity is part of what makes Zentangle so fun and satisfying for people of all ages and skill levels.
Zentangle’s core principles
The Zentangle method was created in the early 2000s by Maria Thomas and Rick Roberts. They wanted to develop an art form anyone could do — without worrying about getting it right!
Zentangle’s core principles encourage you to let go of trying to make something that is perfect. You’re encouraged not to use erasers or try to fix anything unexpected. Instead, you accept and enjoy each line as it is.
Every piece is meant to be a natural expression of your mood and energy in the moment — there’s no wrong or right way to make a Zentangle.
Process over product
In Zentangle, the main focus is on the creative process rather than the finished product. This helps keep you grounded in the present moment, making Zentangle deeply mindful.
This process encourages the use of a “string”—a random, lightly drawn line or shape—to guide your design. This string creates sections in your drawing that you can fill with different tangles, giving structure to your art without making it feel rigid or planned. By drawing structured, repeating patterns, you get lost in the rhythm of each stroke, which can be deeply calming and satisfying.
Each pattern you draw brings your attention back to the here and now, which can quiet your thoughts and relieve stress. Even if you only spend 10 or 15 minutes on a Zentangle, you might find that it leaves you feeling calmer and more focused.
5 benefits of Zentangle art
You might be thinking that you’re too busy to take time out of your day to “doodle,” but mindful drawing practices like Zentangle actually have more benefits than you may realize. Here are a few of the reasons you should consider giving it a shot.
Reduced stress and promotes relaxation: Zentangle art encourages mindfulness through repetitive, meditative patterns, which helps calm the mind and ease stress. Research has shown that mindfulness activities like Zentangle may lower stress hormones and improve mental clarity.
Improved focus and concentration: Zentangle’s repetitive patterns require you to keep your mind centered on each stroke, helping train your brain to focus. This can be particularly useful if you struggle with distractions).
Better creativity: Zentangle combines the supportive framework of structured patterns with the freedom to choose and combine patterns to make something unique, without fear of judgment. This can boost confidence in your artistic abilities, and make it easier to try new things.
Similar to mindfulness: Instead of worrying about the past or future, Zentangle helps you stay in the present — similar to meditation. Each stroke becomes a moment of calm and clarity, helping improve overall mindfulness.
Accessible to all skill levels: Zentangle is an inclusive and welcoming form of art that doesn’t require any previous experience. Anyone can start with a pencil and paper and begin creating unique designs.
How to do Zentangle: a beginner’s guide
If you want to boost your creative confidence and make some time in your day for mindfulness, then Zentangle is a great place to start. With Zentangle, you’re free from the pressure of creating a perfect drawing — you’re simply making small, structured patterns within a defined space.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started on your Zentangle journey.
1. Gather your materials
The good news is you don’t need much to get going with Zentangle! You’ll need a small piece of paper, usually around 3.5 x 3.5 inches (often called a tile,) a pencil, and a fine-tip pen (like a Micron pen or any pen that doesn’t smudge easily).
If you don’t have these exact supplies, use whatever you have on hand — you can start with a regular piece of paper and any pen. Zentangle’s simplicity is one of its best features, so feel free to keep things basic. If you’re already a confident artist, you might also want to add a blending stump or cotton swab for shading.
2. Set up your workspace
Zentangle doesn’t require a big setup or fancy space, but having a quiet place can help you get into a relaxed, focused state — try to find a quiet, comfortable spot where you won’t be interrupted.
Remove distractions, such as your phone or other screens, and make yourself comfortable. You could even play some soothing music if it helps you relax.
💙 Press play on our Infinite Ambient for Relaxation playlist to get into a relaxed headspace.
3. Start with the string
In Zentangle, the “string” serves as a guide that divides your tile into smaller sections, each of which you’ll fill with a different pattern. Every string is unique, which makes each Zentangle different and interesting.
To create your string, lightly draw a few random lines or loops with a pencil, letting them flow naturally. The string gives structure to your Zentangle but doesn’t need to follow any specific rules or look “perfect.”
4. Choose your tangles
Zentangle patterns, known as “tangles,” are the foundation of Zentangle art. These tangles are made up of simple lines, dots, curves, and other basic shapes.
Crescent Moon: A series of small, curved lines that resemble crescents, layered to create a moon-like effect.
Hollibaugh: A pattern of straight lines that overlap, creating a weave effect.
Printemps: Spirals that repeat to form a swirling, textured look.
If you’re just starting out, try choosing one or two patterns and focus on learning them well. As you become more comfortable, you can start mixing and matching more tangles to create a look that feels unique to you.
5. Fill each section with tangles
Using your pen, begin filling in each section of your tile with one of the tangles you chose. You could fill one section with the Crescent Moon pattern, then switch to Hollibaugh in the next.
Take your time, and don’t rush — Zentangle is all about the process, so it’s okay to work slowly. Focus on each stroke, letting yourself relax with the repetition of lines and shapes.
If what you envisioned doesn’t go to plan, let it be part of your design. Zentangle encourages you to embrace imperfections and see them as part of your art. You may find that these unplanned elements add more character to your piece.
6. Add shading and finishing touches
Once you’ve filled each section with patterns, you can add shading to give your Zentangle more depth and dimension. Use your pencil to lightly shade areas where the patterns overlap or near the edges of each shape. Even just a little bit of shading can make your design look more dynamic, adding a soft, finished look.
7. Take a moment to appreciate your work
When you’ve finished your Zentangle, take a step back and appreciate what you’ve created. Each line and shape represents a moment of focus and relaxation, so give yourself credit for dedicating this time to yourself.
Reflecting on your work can bring a sense of accomplishment, calm, and gratitude for the creative journey you’ve taken.
💙 Learn how to Harness Creativity with guidance from iconic street artist Shepard Fairey.
Zentangle art FAQs
What materials are needed to start Zentangle art?
Starting Zentangle art doesn’t require much, which makes it great for beginners! There are three basic materials you’ll need to get started.
Small square of paper: Often called a tile, the standard size is 3.5 x 3.5 inches, but any size square of paper you have to hand is fine.
Pencil: This is used to lightly sketch the “string,” which is a guideline for your patterns, and for adding shading to bring depth to your designs.
Fine-tip pen: Many Zentangle artists like to use special pens, like Micron pens, because they create smooth lines without smudging, but any pen will work.
If you’d like to add some extra touches, a blending stump or cotton swab can be handy for creating soft shading effects. Some people also enjoy adding color with colored pencils or markers after they’ve practiced with black-and-white designs.
How is Zentangle art different from doodling?
While Zentangle and doodling might look similar at first glance, they have different purposes and methods. Doodles are spontaneous drawings — the kind of thing you might do on the edge of a notebook while talking on the phone or thinking about something else. They’re usually done without any specific plan and can include random shapes, figures, or words.
Zentangle, in comparison, is all about intention. Each Zentangle design starts with a “string,” which divides the paper into sections. Each section is then filled with repeating patterns called tangles. Zentangle art encourages slow, deliberate drawing with focused attention on each line and pattern — which brings a sense of calm and mindfulness.
Can Zentangle be done on materials other than paper?
Yes, absolutely! While Zentangle traditionally starts with pen and paper, many artists enjoy moving on to explore different materials. Fabric is a popular choice, as you can use fabric markers to create Zentangle designs on tote bags, pillowcases, or clothing. Some people also create Zentangle designs on rocks, glass jars, or tiles, creating unique, handmade decorations or gifts.
If you’re just starting out, it’s usually best to start with paper to get used to the Zentangle technique. But as you build confidence, feel free to experiment with different materials and see where your creativity takes you.
What are Zentangle patterns for beginners?
Beginners often find it helpful to start with some of the simpler, foundational Zentangle patterns, also known as “tangles.” Starting with a few easy ones helps you get comfortable with the basics and build your confidence. These three easy-to-learn tangles make a great starting point. You can also repeat and combine them in different ways when you’re ready for something more intricate.
Crescent Moon: This pattern uses small curved lines in rows to create a moon-like effect, adding a gentle, flowing look to your design.
Hollibaugh: Another popular beginner tangle, where lines are layered in a way that makes them appear to weave over and under each other, creating depth.
Printemps: A simple spiral shape that can be repeated in different sizes and densities, giving a swirling, textured look to your tile.
How long should a typical Zentangle session last for relaxation?
One of the great things about Zentangle is that you can enjoy it in as little as 10–15 minutes, or you can spend a full hour — or more, if you have the time and want to! However long you have, the goal is to let the process be enjoyable and relaxing.
10–15 minutes: Perfect for a quick relaxation break during a busy day, helping to clear your mind and calm your thoughts.
30–60 minutes: Helpful to unwind after a long day, or if you want a deeper, more immersive experience.
A short session can be easier to fit into a packed schedule, but still helps clear your mind and calm your thoughts. During a longer session, you can take your time filling each section, experimenting with different patterns, and adding details or shading.
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