Zentangle Method drawing course - beginners essentials - six week course

Zentangle® Drawing Workshops

Calm focus, one stroke at a time

All materials provided for you to take home. No drawing experience needed.

Zentangle is a simple, structured method of drawing that anyone can do, even if they believe they cannot draw. It was created to make creativity accessible and enjoyable, offering a way to make beautiful images through the repetition of simple lines and patterns called “tangles.” These patterns are drawn with intention and focus, and they grow one stroke at a time, allowing you to relax into the process rather than worry about the result.

At the heart of Zentangle is a square tile of paper, typically about 9cm across. On this small space, a few pencil lines are drawn as a loose framework, then inked patterns are added, one after another. There's no pressure to plan or get it perfect. Instead, it encourages you to be present in the moment and explore how lines connect, curve and shape the space. You may be surprised by what emerges when you let go of the outcome.

Although it might appear abstract or decorative at first glance, Zentangle is more than just drawing. It is a meditative practice that gently shifts your focus from thinking to observing. The method follows a few guiding principles, such as using deliberate strokes, embracing “no mistakes,” and working in a quiet and mindful way. It welcomes all, regardless of skill or background, and invites you to create without judgment.

This course is built around those foundations. Over six calm and creative sessions, you will learn how to draw a variety of tangles and discover how they can be used to create your own unique pieces and how to continue at home, as an everyday practice. All materials are provided, including quality tools for you to take home and keep, so you can continue drawing between sessions or whenever you need a moment of stillness. Whether you are coming from a busy workday or seeking space to unwind, this is a chance to step away from the rush and enjoy something gentle, satisfying and creative. Its a great start to a busy week.

Getting Started with the Zentangle® Method

Discover how simple drawing can support focus and calm

In this session, you’ll learn the basics of the Zentangle approach, including the tools, how to start a drawing with a “string”, and why there’s no such thing as a mistake. We’ll go step by step through a few key patterns, and by the end, you’ll have created your first tile and be ready to keep going at home. If you have already completed an introduction session, this will introduce you to new tangles, and you will use a different 'string'.

Nature-Inspired Tangles and Border Work

Drawing from the world around you

Leaves, vines, petal, this session takes its inspiration from natural forms. You’ll explore patterns based on organic shapes and learn how to frame your work with a simple patterned border. Calm, gentle and quietly creative.

Zentangle® on the Circular Tile (Zendala®

Explore rhythm and flow inside a mandala like circle

Working on a round tile, or Zendala®, changes the way you draw. You’ll try new and familiar tangles in a format that encourages movement, balance and quiet focus. This session is about working with the shape, not against it.

You’ll leave with a completed Zendala® and some fresh ideas for using patterns and space.

Zentangle® Grids, Cubes and Drama

Bringing structure and contrast to your work

This workshop introduces grid-based tangles that add depth and impact to your drawings. Using light pencil lines, you’ll build patterns that create optical illusions, Ideal if you enjoy precision.

Zendala® Composition with the Markus Operandus

Finding balance in the round

If you’ve worked with Zendalas before, this session offers a way to go deeper. You’ll learn how to use the Markus Operandus, a simple guide for layout and balance created by Zentangle HQ, to plan your piece. This is slow, thoughtful work that results in something uniquely yours.

White on Black and the Golden Ratio

Tangles in white using a Gelly Roll pen, and the Phi Tile shape

White ink on black paper has a striking, meditative quality. In this session, explore tangles in a new format, exploring how light and dark can shape a drawing. We’ll also look at the golden ratio as a tool for composition. You’ll leave with a finished tile.

You can find out more about the Telegraph Hill Centre here.