I have been creating and sharing easy zentangle patterns, designs, templates and art projects for a few years now. It truly has become a passion of mine. And, I realized that I hadn't put together a post featuring all the zentangle art supplies that I love to use. So, that's exactly what I am going to do today. Let's go.
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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.
It is important to understand that you don't really need any special equipment to zentangle or doodle. This is what makes it so accessible. Yes, you could use any paper and any pen, but for the best results check out all these supplies.
Zentangle Art Supplies for Beginners
- Paper - Let's start with the paper. Because I create printable templates I skip the traditional 3 ½ inch squares of heavy stock paper. Instead, I print all of my templates and practice squares on white cardstock paper. I love how smooth the cardstock is, the marker glides so easily over the page. And, the markers do not bleed through the cardstock. My choice: Astrobrights White Cardstock
- Pens - I know it might seem crazy to use a pen for art, but many people prefer pencils so they can erase their "mistakes". But, I like to think there aren't any mistakes in zentangling art - it is all about going with the flow. So, what markers to use to zentangle? I love Micron's ultra-fine-tipped black markers. I purchase the sets of 01,03 and 05 tips. I will often use a combination of these pens in my designs. Play around with the thickness and see which size you like best. My choice: Micron Fineliner Pen Set.
- Pencils - I know I just said I like using a pen to zentangle, but sometimes it is fun to add shading to the patterns. Especially when you are creating a basket weave or an overlapping design. While I typically use a mechanical pencil in life, for zentangle I prefer using a good old reliable HB pencil. Nothing fancy. Have a pencil sharpener on hand and an eraser on the end and you are good to go. My choice: Stabilo HB pencil set.
- Colored Pens - While it is typical to use a black pen to draw zentangle, it is also fun to do things a little differently and use colored pens. I found this set of ultra-fine tipped pens from Staedler and it is a great selection of colors. I love how the designs turned out when I used the different colors. Especially fun when you are making Christmas cards, Valentine's Day art or bookmarks. Why not add a little color?! My choice: Staedtler Fine Tip Colored Pen Set
- Music - I had to include my favorite thing to have on hand when I start to zentangle - music. Yes, I've written all about how zentangle is a wonderful meditative art for kids and adults and part of that is the role music plays. Press play on a playlist of your choice before you start doodling and it will help you focus on the paper and pen. My headphone choices: Apple AirPods Max (over the ear) or Beats FitPro (in ear).
- Cup of Tea - When I sit down to doodle I like to have a cup of tea beside me. Something warm and comforting. Of course, if tea isn't your...cup of tea...choose a drink that you like. Maybe a simple glass of water would do? Whatever you choose to drink, be sure you don't spill!
That's everything you need to get started creating zentangle art. If you are looking for step-by-step instructions for making dozens of patterns and designs then head to my epic post that is filled with easy zentangle patterns and printable templates to draw your patterns inside of.
Explore all of our easy zentangle designs and patterns and templates
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