We love zentangle art projects and I absolutely love how this zentangle initial project turned out. I was looking for a new way to use all of the creative zentangle patterns we've learned and creating a piece of art for my tween's wall seemed like a fun idea! This is a fantastic summer art project for kids of all ages and adults too!
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.
A few years ago my kids made painted canvas initials for their bedrooms. But I was looking to create a more challenging art project for older kids and adults to make. So, I decided to incorporate our love of zentangle art and doodling.
Tween Wall Art - Zentangle Initial
wooden initial
black permanent marker - thick and thin
removable picture hanging strips
To make this initial wall art project you will need a wooden initial, with a smooth surface. I've shared a link to the style of initial I am talking about. Sometimes the initials are unpainted. In that case, you will want to paint the surface white - with simple white acrylic paint. Paint a couple of coats of white paint, so the surface is a solid white. Of course, you could always paint your letter to coordinate with your bedroom. However, the white or light background shows off the patterns the best - so if you do opt for something other than white make sure it's light - like yellow or a light pink. You also need to decide if you want the initial to be your name. First, middle, and last. The "F" is our family's last name. Or, would you like to buy enough letters to spell a word?
Once you have your initial sorted it's time to add a narrow border all the way around the letter. Use a thicker permanent marker for this. I freehanded the line, but you could use a ruler if you prefer something more precise. This line will give you the space to draw your zentangle art inside.
Now that the border has been created, use your thinner permanent marker to draw your tangle line. Start anywhere in the initial and tangle a line all around the space. Remember to keep your marker on the surface and create one long looping, tangled line. The voids that your line creates will be where your doodles, or zentangle patterns are drawn.
Now it's time to add your zentangle patterns. We share all kinds of cool zentangle patterns and designs - how to draw basket weaves, fun seasonal inspired zentangle patterns, and more. And, of course, you can always use your own imagination and do whatever you like. My "f" is filled with hearts, flowers, music notes, fish scales, basket weave, and more.
My favorite thing to do is set aside some time to complete my zentangle art project. I put on a fun playlist and pop in my headphones. Then I sit and doodle away. I find zentangle to be a wonderfully relaxing and meditative experience.
When the zentangling is complete it is time to hang your art. The wooden letter is relatively light and thin, and it can be hung with a set of repositionable, tape wall hangers. If your letter is heavier you could add a more substantial wall hanger to the back of the letter. Choose a spot to hang your initial, or word. My kids have letters hanging on their bedroom doors.
I love how this turned out. Isn't it awesome?! This zentangle art project is a fun summer art project for tweens and teens and adults too. You could take your doodling supplies to the park or on a camping trip. It also makes a great gift - either gift a completed initial to a friend or gift the zentangle supplies.
Check out all of our zentangle patterns and designs
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