ZENTANGLE: A SIMPLE DRAWING METHOD TO INCREASE WELL-BEING

What if all it took was a few pen strokes to make life slow down? The Zentangle method of drawing, which was developed in the US in the noughties, is an opportunity to enjoy a moment of calm creativity and mindfulness which is accessible to all, including people who can’t draw. A relaxing, intuitive and inspiring practice that Caran d’Ache complements with high-quality writing and drawing instruments.

 

Zentangle is an intuitive method of drawing that is based on the repetition of simple patterns called “tangles”. Each tangle is made up of basic strokes (lines, dots, curves…) that are hand-drawn on small 9x9 cm squares of paper called “tiles”. Zentangle art takes shape gradually, without any preconceived ideas or preliminary sketching and with mindful focus.

This approach was developed in the noughties by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas, a monk and a calligrapher, who were both looking to develop a time for active meditation through the medium of drawing. Since then, Zentangle has become a relaxation technique and a creative outlet, even a form of therapy, that’s recognised the world over.

 

Behind its gentle appearance, Zentangle is an activity that has profound effects. It brings together body, mind and focus. Many art therapy practitioners, teachers and caregivers use the Zentangle method as a way to relax and as a personal development tool. Here are some of the observed benefits:
 

The repetitive gestures and patterns, the focus on each stroke, the lack of pressure for the end result: all of these contribute to a sense of relaxation and promote mindfulness. Zentangle can help to slow down your stream of thoughts, a form of graphic meditation.
 

Drawing following the Zentangle method encourages relaxation by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps with relaxation and regeneration. This makes Zentangle a precious tool when it comes to stress management or daily anxiety.
 

By valuing the process rather than the result, the Zentangle method is an invitation to reconnect with your creativity without fear of judgment. Every creation becomes proof that you can create beautiful art, simply and with no sophisticated technique.
 

Every pattern requires concentration and focus. With every new line traced, your perception is heightened, and you learn to observe each line, slow down, and breathe. This gentle concentration is particularly beneficial for children, the elderly or people who feel they need grounding.
 

The more you experiment with shapes and combine patterns, the more unsuspected creative impulses you’ll discover. Zentangle then becomes a gateway to other forms of artistic expression.

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• A square of white paper (9x9 cm)

• A fine felt-tipped black pen such as a Fibralo™ from Caran d’Ache for fluid and clean lines

• A graphite pencil to add shadows

• A blending stump to soften the contrasts

At Caran d’Ache we’ve always believed in the virtues of creativity. The precision of the instruments, the comfort of use, the softness of the strokes and the quality of the paper: everything is conceived to provide an unhindered space for expression. Since the beginning, Caran d’Ache has put excellence to the service of creativity.

Our ranges of felt-tipped pens, graphite pencils, papers and blending stumps will accompany all lovers of drawing and Zentangle - from the first stroke to the most accomplished works. Each stroke becomes a sensorial experience - fluid, dependable and comfortable.

Here is a step-by-step guide to creating your first Zentangle drawing:

1. Draw a frame: trace a faint frame a few millimetres from the edge of the paper square.

2. Draw a “string”: trace an abstract line that goes through the square and defines the different areas.

3. Choose some patterns: start with a simple one and repeat it within an area. Use different patterns in the others.

4. Add shadowing: with a pencil, add some shadows in certain areas to give depth to the drawing.

5. Observe the result, without striving for perfection: each Zentangle is unique. It reflects a moment in time, a state of mind and a gesture.

Daily Zentangle drawing gives you time to breathe and go back to basics: the strokes, the gestures and the pleasure of creating. You can easily incorporate this gentle method into your daily routine to find a sense of calm, stimulate your imagination and reconnect with your own creativity.

And how about you? All you need is a square of paper, a black felt-tipped pen and a few minutes of your time. The rest will follow, one pen stroke at a time!
 

Did you enjoy learning about the Zentangle method? Why not take things further with online art classes?
Caran d’Ache offers Creative Class, a platform dedicated to lovers of all things creative, whether beginners or advanced artists. Drawing, watercolour, illustration… Every class is facilitated by passionate artists and has been designed to help you acquire new skills at your own pace in a relaxed manner.

• Short and inspirational formats
• Accessible and varied techniques
• The pleasure of creating, wherever you are

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