The Zentangle® method is a relaxing and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. It’s beginner-friendly and perfect for a quick creative escape. Here’s a simple guide to get started with your 15 minutes of Zen:

Materials Needed:

• Paper (a small square, typically 3.5 x 3.5 inches)
• Pencil (for light lines)
• Black Pen or marker (like a fine-tip Micron pen)
• Eraser (optional)

Steps:

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Find a quiet spot where you won’t be disturbed. Take a deep breath to relax and set an intention for your drawing.

2. Draw the Border

Using your pencil, lightly draw a square border on your paper. This creates a frame for your Zentangle.

3. Create a String

Inside the border, draw a free-form line or a couple of shapes with your pencil. These will divide your paper into sections. Be random—there’s no right or wrong way!

4. Choose Tangles (Patterns)

Here are a few beginner-friendly patterns:

• Crescent Moon: Semi-circles that grow in layers.
• Hollibaugh: Overlapping straight lines that look like wooden planks.
• Printemps: Spirals repeated in different sizes.
• Tipple: Circles grouped together like bubbles.

5. Fill the Sections

Using your black pen, pick one pattern for each section and fill it in. Work slowly and enjoy the process.

6. Add Shading

With your pencil, lightly add shading to parts of the patterns to create depth. Blend the shading gently with your finger or a blending tool.

7. Admire Your Work

Take a moment to appreciate what you’ve created. There’s no “wrong” Zentangle—it’s all about mindfulness and creativity.