Monday, October 19, 2015

How To Get Started In Zentangles...Tangles...Doodles




This is an art of drawing designs.  Some can be as simple as a grouping of dots, others can be very time consuming and complex.  Many patterns though, are relatively easy to master and simply repeated over and over.

‘Zentangle’ is a registered name, and therefore I never claim to do ‘Zentangle’.  I am not a CZT = Certified Zentangle Teacher.  All said, I will share designs I have drawn in hopes you will use them as a springboard to create your own. Many of these patterns show hints of Celtic, Polynesian, Viking or American Indian art, to name a few, in design.  I also like to use the designs found in old cloth, pictures, mosaics and stained glass.  The art is YOURS to make, as you will, because YOU are the artist. 

Since this art is more free-flowing, it is soothing to the nerves and can be very relaxing… thus the ‘Zen’.  Although this is a new craze among adults and teens alike, it has been around for many generations.  Possibly the Vikings had the same Zen feeling as we do today? 

So, you may be wondering what supplies you need.  If you watch any of the tutorials on You-tube or read about how-to create these patterns, many will suggest the finest of black pens and thickest of paper.  Of course, I have a different opinion.  Personally, what I look for in a pen all manner of writing and drawing (when using a pen in drawing) is the smoothest I can find.  This smoothness allows me to move about the paper freely.  When doodling, I prefer to use a Sharpe.  They come in a variety of tips – from very thin to broad, and all can be used for your design.  They also come in some wonderful colors! Paper can be part of the art… you can use lined paper, card board, construction paper or copier paper to a Styrofoam paper plate.  Different media… different outcome… all unique and all yours!

I urge all to try first a few simple designs with a pen or pencil on regular paper, until you build up your self-confidence that it’s okay not to be as perfect in lines as Suzanne McNeill CZT! 
On this page of my blog, I am devoting to simple art.  I find art relaxing as a writer.  I would like to share your pieces as well.  Just leave a comment below or drop me a line at pjmartin2000@gmail.com.

Have fun!

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