The Zen Behind a Zentangle

Have you ever wondered how the artist actually creates a Zentangle? 

​You know those coloring pages that are way more than just a coloring page. Today we are going to have a look at how a zentangle is created...the process, the steps, the inspiration.....

As you could see in the video...Jen doesn't immediately draw the lines in ink. The tip here would be to use a pencil low in graphite, like an H1 or H2 normally used by architects, so you won't smudge the paper too much. Also, try to not press down too hard on the paper otherwise you will still see the pencil lines once you draw over it with ink.

The next photo will show in more detail that Jen actually changed her mind a few times while sketching. This is perfectly fine if you have to do that. (Do try to do it when using pencil though) When I create a piece it usually really comes together once ink meets paper. I sometimes feel like my hand knows she can messes pencil lines up but when it's the real nitty in the gritty it's time to get it absolutely right. And otherwise, you can always start again and use the window to trace the lines that were good the first time round.

Have a look at all the details that went into this piece. Can you tell which parts have been repeated and why? Do you think that's important in a work like this? Or that Jen didn't have a set idea and went with the flow? Please let us know your take on it and later this week Jen will give her answer in the comments.

And the finished product. It's now time to gather your coloring pencils and color this puppy silly or glam or in grey tones...whatever tickles your fancy. We just like to say...go nuts)