Getting back to the very basics of doodle art and zentangle in this post. If you haven't already, be sure to check out all of our beginner zentangle patterns and our intro to zentangle as meditative art. What I've been wanting to make for a long time now are my own printable zentangle squares for folks to draw inside.
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Okay, what is a zentangle? Originally I thought that a zentangle was just doodling…I was wrong. The zentangle method is a trademarked process based on a theory developed by founders Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas. You have undoubtedly seen this patterning art form before, it has become incredibly popular. “ZEN” means calm and “TANGLE” means a collection of overlapping patterns. ZENTANGLE is the bringing together of the calm and the pattern. It was originally based on using a 3 ½ inch square of heavy stock paper and a black fine marker and various patterns that turn into a creative piece of art. We didn’t follow the exact Zentangle method, but we had a lot of fun experimenting.
So, this is why I wanted to make my own tiles or squares. Because, while I know that we can totally doodle inside of any shape, if you want to keep things consistent or are just learning and playing around with patterns then proper squares are the place to start.
Printable Zentangle Squares
our printable 3.5" x 3.5" zentangle squares
our printable 4" x 4" blank zentangle squares
our printable 6" x 6" zentangle squares
white cardstock
black, ultra-fine tipped marker
I've designed three different sizes for the printable squares. So, you can try out each size if you like. Find the size that works best for you and your doodle expressions. The most important thing is the paper you choose to print on and the pen you use.
It is best to print these on white cardstock. This paper will give you a lovely smooth surface to draw on. Standard printer paper is usually very thin and has an inconsistent surface. It can even have little bumps. As you glide your pen along the page, bringing your zentangle patterns to life, the last thing you want is a bump to throw everything off.
Then there is the pen you use. I like to use the Micron ultra-fine-tipped markers/pens. I actually move between the different sizes of tips, depending on the intricacies of the pattern I'm drawing. It's also great to have a pencil on hand, in case you want to shade in a portion of the pattern or if you want to experiment and be able to erase your work.
While I have included 3 different sizes of squares you also could print our smaller blank square practice worksheet. This is the worksheet that I use to work through new patterns. I can move along and add more details as I go from square to square.
How to use printable blank zentangle squares
There are so many awesome ways to use our blank zentangle squares. Print a whole pile of them and clip them into a clipboard. Take them along on your next road trip with the kids or walk to the park. Grab a seat on a bench (or under a tree) and spend time doodling outdoors with your clipboard and pen. Doesn't that sound lovely?!
Pick your favorite size square and then set about making a series of doodle designs that you can hang on your wall - framed or unframed. Your own personal artwork.
Turn your zentangle doodles into cards to share with friends. It is always lovely to share your artwork with friends and family.
However you choose to use our zentangle square tiles, I hope you have fun doodling away!
Check out all of our easy zentangle patterns and designs
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