I have been experimenting with doodling and zentangle as part of my Year of Creative Habits challenge.  It’s been so addictive for me, and I couldn’t wait to share it with my kids.

What is zentangle?

Supplies

We started by drawing several overlapping circles in our art journals, using a ceramic jar as a guide. We used regular sharpies for these drawings in order to simplify the process.  I wanted to eliminate bickering over pens and the need to make decisions about colors, pen sizes, etc. But if I were doing this on my own, I would definitely have used my nicer pens in a variety of sizes.

Each section of the circles was filled with a different pattern.  Arches, swirls, dots and lines in different directions.  Detailed work like this is a almost a meditative experience for me, and I found that to be true for my kids also.

I began my drawing first so they could understand the project.  Then they began their own designs and we worked quietly alongside each other as we filled in the sections.

We talked about what we liked about each of our drawings for a few minutes .  Both kids wanted to do something like this again, so we will definitely be experimenting more with zentangle.

additional zentangle resources:

Follow my Doodle Inspiration board on Pinterest.
www.zentangle.com has incredible designs
www.tanglepatterns.com walks you through countless patterns, step by step