There’s something sacred about creating art in community. This past weekend, surrounded by sisters in faith, I watched as simple bookmarks became vessels for prayers and connection – a perfect preparation for the holy days ahead.
Morning Coffee Moments
In the quiet moments before dawn, my mother in law Marcia, my friend Cheri, and I would trickle into the kitchen of the beautiful ranch house where the Aldersgate women were staying for our second Ladies Retreat. The hushed murmur of voices, the staccato of laughter quickly caught, and the relaxing flow of easing into the morning with caffeine and good conversation made me look forward to being up after only a brief amount of sleep.
While the busy clatter of kitchen noises and talk went on, I had the opportunity to be creative at the kitchen counter while engaging with my two friends. I brought watercolor cards and blank bookmark templates with me, as well as my archival and gel pens. As talk weaved from stories of childhood and church memories over into discussion about the devotionals shared and connections made with the women that came to this year’s retreat, I realized that the gentle tangles of pattern taking form on the bookmarks were prayers taking shape through art.
Creating in Community
Art has been a integral part of our faith community. Built upon a foundation of former educators and fine arts enthusiasts, Aldersgate has been blessed with many creatives within our church family.
The Ladies Retreat has offered a creative outlet each year, where the women can craft together and bond over design details, unique skill sets, and fun brainstorming. At the end, they have a beautiful memory to take home. This year, the craft project was a tote bag with stencils available in varying tree/family designs (reflecting our underlying theme of family connections).
As each person dipped and dabbed paint colors over their selected design templates, they reflected on the devotionals shared up to that point. Scripture from the book of Psalms, Matthew, John, Isaiah, and more were discussed, as well as the connections of family with faith. More than once, someone made the comment about Aldersgate being their church family.
Not wanting to become absorbed in a lengthy project, I was able to sit back with my lap board and allow the gentle patterns of the zentangles to evolve over the surface of my bookmark. Friends came and went sitting beside me and asking what I was doing. I helped a few people using my pens to add detail designs using tangle patterns to the painted sections of their tote bags, and we visited while I worked. Each person had something on their heart that we visited quietly about, all while interweaving bits about the design I was working on into the conversation when other subjects temporarily tapered off.
These chats were safe – a small bubble apart from the larger group – and offered a space to talk about the things sitting heavily of some of the women’s shoulders or the questions and curiosities steeping in others’ minds. The simple flow of patterns with no specific shaping, yet controlled precision, brought a similar artistic flow state where I was fully present in the conversation but also creating with my hands.
The Creative Process
Each bookmark starts with the same basic supplies: a bookmark card, pencils, pens, a bookmark tassel, and anything extra I’d like for embellishments. The cards I enjoy using most are brown or cream cardstock, giving a little extra structure. While the cream cards allow for a spectrum of color usage, the brown appeals to the antique, minimalist look I sometimes gravitate to – the white gel pens really pop on these brown bookmarks.
Choosing a pattern is mostly based on mood, but can also be based on the scripture or objects placed in the design. “He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams,” from Psalm 23:2 (NLT) evokes the imagery of water ripples, leading one to use the SEA WAVES pattern for cascading lines of water or even the FLUX pattern for water droplets.
As I decide on my design and begin adding the basic blocks for it, I consider what I’d like to visit with God about. Am I praying for a friend? Is there something I’m grateful for? Do I have something I need to let go of? These questions help narrow down what I’d like to make and which patterns I’d like to add.
Some of the bookmarks will begin with a clear border for the design and other times it’s open. Some of the bookmarks will have scripture written in or a specific prayer placed over the card and others are exclusively doodle art. Each one evolves in the moment, with the hand and heart leading more than the mind does.
As patterns are filled in, I’ll loop back over sections to thicken the lines. This adds additional depth to the piece and mimics the motion some of the patterns generate. Alternating pen sizes results in different effects based on how heavy or light the lines become. The fine tip of a 005 Micron pen lends to soft highlighting accents, while the thick tip of the 08 pen forms deeper shadows. Each pen used in different areas lends its own personal signature to the piece until it feels complete.
Taking It Forward
These quiet moments found at the retreat and during my evening creative sessions are opportunities to slow down from the pace of a hectic world. Creating tangle patterns requires patience and methodical pattern placement – you can’t just skip ahead when you’re adding waves designs, spirals, and filled-in bubble patterns. The repetitive line placement is meditative and leaves me open to the Holy Spirit to speak on my heart.
It’s when I suddenly think of a person, especially one that wasn’t on my mind, that I know he’s there. The sudden hit of an idea for a new painting, the reassuring peace that settles over me when anxiety is bubbling, the shapes that form within the intricate lines that align with a memory I’d forgotten – the Holy Spirit’s presence is evident in all this and more. Art is my way of worshiping every day.
Ready to start your own zentangle prayer journey? Here’s how:
Grab your basic supplies: cardstock, pencils, and fine-tip pens
Share your creation with our community using #SCSDesignsZentangle
As we continue in Holy Week, I invite you to join me for a few things: if you do not have a church service to connect with, consider visiting Aldersgate Abilene online. There you’ll find live stream worship services, as well as Bible studies and other resources.
You can also visit with me Friday morning (April 18) at 9 am CT (10 am ET) during a creative live session on Facebook at SCS Designs Co. – I’ll be sharing more about the bookmarks and create one live.
My prayer today is that you will be blessed through the experience of this holy season and know the love that God has for you. I ask for traveling mercies for anyone leaving on trips away from home and that you find peace and comfort no matter where you are this coming weekend.
It’s Tuesday, April 15th – and we are currently in Holy Week. As we reflect on Jesus’ journey to the cross, it’s apt to take time to slow down and be present this week. I think of Jesus with his disciples – he wasn’t rushing around and trying to fit everything into each second like we tend to do this week leading up to Easter. He was truly present in each breath of each moment.
Their meal together and Jesus washing the feet of each of his disciples – taking his time, speaking in low hushed tones… I can imagine the effect of a slower, deliberate interaction such as this. When you capture that hush within you, you don’t want it to leave too quickly. You align yourself with the space and time to fully be present: a deliberate quieting of our motions, voices, and hearts so that the atmosphere of reverence remains unbroken.
Last week, I was blessed to join a group of women for our second Ladies Retreat hosted by Aldersgate Abilene Methodist Church. In the preparation for the event both this year and last, I couldn’t have imagined that I would come away with what I have each time.
While Cheri, our Family Ministry director, and I planned different things, there was no way to know how God would take these inspirations and align them with his plans. Each year, we’ve returned from the experience in Kerrville, TX with new insights, stronger bonds with other women in our church family, and a deeper understanding of our spiritual journey. We’ve returned home each time knowing we are all an integral part of our faith community, connected as sisters in Christ.
These sisters of mine are just like me, though I wouldn’t have known it. They have the same heartaches. They share the same joy and laughter. They have a deep love for God and they in turn love deeply of others. We all have quirks and flaws and strengths – we are all unified in building one another up and being there when a sister is in need.
These women have been the guides for my spiritual walk and supporters in innumerable ways. I’ve made friendships with people I generally would not have had the opportunity to get to know.
There’s been laughter, tears, hope filled lessons, new connections forged, blessings counted, prayers whispered, and deep, deep love shared. The Holy Spirit moves in amazing ways and I’ve seen several glimmers of these sacred echoes resonating amongst our tribe over the last few days. Like family, I feel amazed each time I reflect that I’m part of this collective and have a place like this to call home. Thank you, God, for Aldersgate and my church family.
Have you ever noticed how childhood memories shape our creative journey? For me, it started in garden centers, watching my parents select new additions for our landscape. While young-me dreaded the inevitable weeding sessions, those early experiences planted seeds of creativity that would bloom in unexpected ways years later.
The Sensory Symphony of Gardens
There’s something magical about getting your hands dirty in a garden. It’s a full sensory experience: earth filtering through fingers, the rich aroma of soil mingling with floral notes, the gentle hum of bees and hummingbirds, vibrant colors dancing before your eyes, and the sweet reward of fresh-picked strawberries bursting with flavor.
My creative connection to gardens began with my mom (Heike with Handarbeit by Oma on Etsy) and a simple stepping stone kit. Those first projects – an ocean-themed square and a daisy design made with colorful marble stones – taught me how creativity could transform outdoor spaces. While I haven’t returned to concrete creations (yet!), those early lessons led me down new artistic paths.
Finding My Green Thumb’s Voice
Let’s be honest – while I deeply appreciate gardens, I’ve learned to embrace my reality: I’m a seasonal gardener at best. When time, patience, and focus align, I can grow a thriving garden. But life has seasons, doesn’t it? And right now, my season calls for something different.
Enter the humble pothos – my kind of plant! These forgiving friends thrive with minimal attention, and there’s something deeply satisfying about watching a simple cutting develop roots in water. It’s become my go-to gift for fellow plant lovers, sharing little pieces of green joy that grow into stunning displays.
The Birth of the Terra Cotta Collection
These experiences – from childhood garden memories to adult plant adventures – sparked an idea: Why not combine my love of art with these sturdy garden companions? Terra cotta pots have always represented potential to me – whether holding growing plants or corralling art supplies in my studio.
Each pot in this collection tells its own story through hand-painted designs and intricate drawn details. From 4″ selections with matching saucers to petite 3″ pots perfect for windowsills, every piece is unique – just like the plants they’ll nurture.
A Growing Vision
While my gardening days may be more modest now, these painted pots represent something special: the marriage of art and growth, protection and possibility. Each piece offers a canvas for both creative expression and new life.
🌿 Collection Launch Details:
• Early May: Available on Etsy
• June: In-person debut at WCC Market Days (Abilene, TX)
• Sizes: 3″ and 4″ pots with unique designs
• Perfect for: Plant lovers, home decorators, and anyone seeking a touch of artistic garden charm
Join me in celebrating this new collection where art meets nature, and every pot holds the promise of growth.
Hidden treasures aren’t always buried in the ground. Sometimes they’re stashed in studio corners, waiting patiently on half-finished canvases. This weekend’s spring cleaning revealed not just forgotten art pieces, but precious memories and valuable lessons about growth, patience, and God’s perfect timing.
As I sorted through my studio this weekend, each unfinished canvas told a story. These weren’t just incomplete projects – they were chapters of my artistic journey, waiting to be continued. From that first sunset photo my husband captured in Abilene that sparked this creative path back in 2016, to the mixed media experiments of today, each piece holds moments of inspiration, challenge, and growth.
Like archaeological layers, these pieces span nearly a decade of my creative walk with God. Some canvases whisper of busy seasons when art had to wait, while others show bold experiments with new techniques and materials. Each one teaches me something about patience, progress, and the beauty of allowing God to work in His perfect timing.
Join me as I share three special pieces that are teaching me valuable lessons about faith, creativity, and the art of embracing the unfinished…
WyomingWhispers: A Lesson in Seasons
Landscape piece started 2017
This landscape emerged from a family adventure through Yellowstone National Park – a journey that showed me God’s creativity in the most unexpected ways. Within just ten minutes along one stretch of road, we witnessed His artistic mastery as the landscape transformed from snow-covered grounds to sun-warmed rocky shores. Add to that the thrill of seeing elk and grizzly bears up close, and you can understand why this scene demanded to be captured on canvas.
The metallic guardrail, my proud early experiment with blending techniques, stands ready to guide viewers into the scene. Behind it waits the challenge that paused my brush – the vast expanse of water and rock. But you know what? Sometimes God’s timing includes seasons of waiting, teaching us patience through the process.
🎨 Technical Journey:
Early experiments with acrylic paint blending
Perspective challenges with water and rock formations
Learning to trust the creative process
Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear about your own memorable travel moments that sparked creativity!
Mixed Media Sea Turtle: A Journey in Layers
Underwater Sea Turtle – mixed media started April 2024
Have you ever had an idea that wouldn’t let go? This piece started with a morning revelation and a box of forgotten costume jewelry. Those vintage bangle bracelets sparked something unexpected – a vision of bubbles dancing through underwater scenes that perfectly aligned with God’s reminder that beauty often emerges from the most surprising places.
The Creative Journey:
Foundation: Layers of paper scraps creating natural depth
Texture: Bangle bracelets and gel medium forming organic bubble effects
Spirit: Bible pages transformed into flowing water, reminding us that God’s Word flows through every creation
Shell Details: Hole-punched scrapbook paper building dimensional texture
“He makes everything beautiful in its time.” – Ecclesiastes 3:11
This piece continues to evolve, teaching me about patience and trust in the creative process. When uncertainty creeps in (yes, there were moments when it looked like “a very blue mess”!), I’m reminded that growth often happens in those uncertain spaces between layers.
✨ Want to see this piece transform? Follow me on Instagram! We’ll explore texture techniques while discussing how art can become a form of prayer and meditation, plus you’ll have a peek into the process of creating this sea turtle and other artwork.
Check out the April 2024 post for a peek into the many layers that went into creating this selection up to this point
Belgian Memories: Where Past Meets Present
Pub recreation from picture (Belgium) – started in late 2022
Some pieces carry more than paint – they hold chapters of our story. This Belgian pub scene, requested by my brother, bridges my childhood years in Europe with my present calling as an artist. As a military family kid who spent twelve years overseas, this piece represents more than just a location – it’s a connection to those formative years that shaped who I am today.
The perfectionist in me (you know that voice, don’t you?) often hesitates, fearing to misrepresent these precious memories. But God gently reminds me that growth happens when we step beyond our comfort zone. Just as He guided our family through multiple countries and cultures, He guides each brush stroke now.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
🎨 Current Status:
Working through architectural details
Balancing memory with artistic interpretation
Learning to trust the process over perfectionism
Join me in this journey of memory and creation during our upcoming Thursday evening sessions this May. Together, we’ll explore how art can help us process and celebrate our past while embracing God’s present calling.
#MilitaryBratLife #ArtisticJourney #FaithOverFear
Beauty in the Waiting
You know, sometimes we get so caught up in wanting everything to be “finished” and “perfect” that we miss the beauty of the process. These incomplete pieces of art remind me of what Paul wrote in Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Just like these pieces on my easel, we’re all works in progress. Some days the colors flow easily, and other days we need to step back and let the layers dry. And that’s okay. That’s where the growth happens – in those quiet moments between layers, in the pauses between brush strokes, in the waiting.
✨ Join Our Creative Community:
Share below: Which piece resonates most with your journey?
What unfinished project is teaching you patience right now?
Tag @SCSDesignsCo in your own WIP (Work In Progress) photos
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This Friday (April 4) at 6:30 PM CT on Facebook @SCSDesignsCo – join me to see new listings arriving soon in the Etsy shop (scsdesignsco.etsy.com) and revisit the sea turtle painting again for some Q&A over mixed media elements.
Remember, every masterpiece starts as a work in progress. What matters isn’t just the destination, but the beauty we find along the way.
Grace + Peace, Samantha
About the Author: Samantha is a faith-inspired artist and founder of SCS Designs Co., where she combines her love for art, faith, and community through creative expression.
God has quite a sense of humor, but I think he had good intentions when he created me with OCD. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is like its own superpower, especially on the good days when the hyper-focus, attention to detail has me flying through tasks, checking off all the list item boxes (love my lists!), and feeling confident.
But then there are low days where the anxiety and depression find footholds to cling to: beeping the car lock three times to be absolutely sure it’s secure, having a spreadsheet for practically everything to ensure nothing has been forgotten, obsessing over the placement of things until it feels “just right”… These are the days where the compulsions do little to quiet the obsessive focus on needing to be perfect and to never mess anything up, because no one is better at beating me up than my own mind during these lows.
OCD has made me a constant worrier and a professional over-thinker, like multiple radios all playing different channels at the exact same time. As tasks and stressors are cleared, a radio turns off.
Keeping it to only a few radios is manageable, but too many morphs the mellow sound into a loud roar in my head – all the thoughts jangling to be heard and vying to be the main focus. The radios only turn off when a task is fully completed. For me, that means working through things in my mind constantly until they can be accepted as ‘done’.
The Symphony of Thoughts
It was one of those seasons where the radios seemed to multiply daily. Each commitment, each responsibility added another station to the mix: full-time church admin work, home life, being mom to Aspen, and trying to nurture my creative business. The constant background noise of ‘not doing enough’ and ‘falling behind’ kept getting louder, drowning out the quieter stations that usually brought peace.
Every completed task would silence one radio, but three more seemed to switch on in its place. The harmony I usually found between faith, family, and creativity was becoming lost in the static of too many stations playing at once. Even my evening creative sessions, usually a sanctuary of calm, became another frequency competing to be heard.
In one of those moments where the noise felt overwhelming, I realized too many radios were on and blaring. More were turning on day by day, and I needed to dial them back. For me, it was about seeking the quiet moments to be open to the Holy Spirit for guidance on where my true focus and intentions should be. Though I knew what I needed to do, too many radios were on already.
“Cut Through the Noise” – 2018 original paint pour
The demand of a world that shouts out about hustling and pushing yourself further every day was overtaking the things I knew to be a deeper truth. Matthew 11:28 says ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’
My soul cried out for this rest that Jesus spoke of, but the tangle of a secular world urging for more was smothering the plea.
When I think back to that time now, I see clearly places where I compromised and gave in to outside influences rather than holding to what I knew was best for me. I allowed my boundaries to become misshapen, which gave way for things to creep into my day and steal the peace I wanted and needed so much.
So here comes a Sunday morning – I remember with crisp clarity hearing our organist play through his morning service prelude and the cloud of obsessive thoughts were cycling through my head, the same questions I’d been praying over and over: “What am I doing wrong?” “What do I need to do?” “Why do I feel so stuck?” “Why can’t I do better?” And this simple, firm voice said, “You’re trying too hard.”
The beautiful thing about this moment is that right before I heard the words spoken to me, all the radios went silent.
Watercolor and Ink Bookmark – March 2025
The Divine Whisper
Do you feel like you’ve heard God speak to you? Have you felt the Holy Spirit press something so hard on your heart that you’re sure it’ll leave a bruise? But those words were like a balm and filled me with a warm acceptance — something I didn’t question, because I suddenly knew exactly what to do, like a full upload confirming that I needed to place God at the very center of my life. Everything I’d been taught pressed with reassurance on me and I felt a deep peace.
This was my anchor point, and little did I know I would especially need it over the next few weeks. On August 21, 2024, I took Aspen to get some things checked out with our family doctor because the gut feeling wouldn’t go away. Moms… always listen to your gut.
No sooner had we arrived in Fort Worth, Aspen received a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes. While we’ve had a lot of time to adapt since then, it felt huge and scary in the moment – especially the 2+ hour drive to the hospital without any direction or answers other than “Go now, as quickly and safely as you can.”
This anchor point – this voice touching my heart and bringing me back to the core of what I knew to be the deepest truth – kept me firmly planted in my faith where I could seek comfort and rest. Looking back, I see how God was preparing me through that moment of stillness, that divine whisper of ‘You’re trying too hard.’ He knew what lay ahead with Aspen’s diagnosis and was already teaching me to quiet those racing thoughts, to find harmony even when the radios played at full volume.
The radios all played a piece of the greater song – so even though stations turned on and off as needed and wove in and out of each other, they all played in beautiful harmony without stealing my sense of overall peace.
Friends, we are not built to carry so many things with us.
We were not intended to stretch ourselves to the max, cramming more and more into every moment until we can’t hear the whisper of God through the noise of the radios. It’s ok to slow down – we do not need to run at the same pace of the world around us. It’s ok to savor our time with God, and truly be open to hearing him through his Word and through our prayers.
In the end, I’m glad I caught on and listened to what he was trying to tell me – I can’t imagine being anywhere else in my relationship with God, my family, my church home, and my work.
Finding Peace in Creation
‘For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.’ – Psalm 139:13-14
I appreciate that God made me exactly the way he planned, OCD included. What others might see as overwhelming attention to detail becomes a gift in my artistic practice.
Those same ‘radios’ that can overwhelm in daily life transform into channels of creativity. When I’m in the right headspace, these multiple streams of thought converge into a single, powerful flow of creative energy.
The world seems to fade away, and every part of my focus narrows down to the new piece I’m creating – each detail, each pattern, each stroke becoming a prayer of its own.
“Aurora Rising” – 2018 original paint pour
An Invitation to Rest
At the end of the day, I think he has led me down a winding path in my art journey but with clear intention. Through the breaking, we discover the beauty in each moment – in the gentle sweep of a watercolor brush, in the meditative flow of pattern designs, in the quiet whispers of creativity that speak of His presence. We are better able to appreciate the intricate details of his creation when we create from a place of rest rather than striving.
This is what Jesus meant when He called the weary to come – not to stop all activity, but to find rest in the midst of it. In my studio, as evening settles and the day’s demands quiet down, I’ve found that art becomes a form of prayer, each stroke a conversation with the Divine. Whether it’s the precise patterns of Zentangle, the flow of paint across canvas, or the gentle dabbing of watercolors, every creative act becomes an opportunity to rest in His presence.
I’d love for you to experience this journey of finding rest through prayerful art with me. Whether you’re new to art or a seasoned creator, there’s a sacred space for you here in our creative community. Join me Thursday evenings at 7 pm CST for our live creative sessions on Facebook at SCS Designs Co., where we’ll explore this beautiful intersection of faith and creativity together. No experience necessary – just bring your open heart and willingness to create in community.
Grace, Peace, + Mercy,
Samantha
About the Author: Samantha is a faith-inspired artist and founder of SCS Designs Co., where she combines her love for art, faith, and community through creative expression.
Did you ever doodle in the margins of your notebooks and suddenly feel like a creative genius? Well, Zentangle art is basically that—except way cooler, more intentional, and (bonus points!) you can actually call it art. Zentangle is a structured yet relaxing method of creating intricate patterns, one line at a time. It’s meditative, fun, and, let’s be honest, incredibly satisfying.
Zentangle design – March 2024
In this blog, we’re diving deep into the world of Zentangle designs: what they are, how to get started, and why they’re the ultimate creativity booster. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone who barely draws stick figures, Zentangle is for everyone. Trust us; this is the creative adventure you didn’t know you needed!
What Is Zentangle, Exactly?
Let’s start with the basics: Zentangle is an art method that uses repetitive patterns (called “tangles”) to create beautiful, structured designs. Sounds fancy, right? But really, it’s just a mindfulness exercise disguised as art.
Developed by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas in 2003, Zentangle is designed to help anyone—yes, even you, self-proclaimed “non-artist”—tap into their creative potential. You don’t need any special skills, just a pen, some paper, and a willingness to let your mind wander into an artistic trance.
The best part? There’s no such thing as a mistake in Zentangle. Every “oops” can be turned into “oops-I-meant-to-do-that.” It’s art with zero judgment and 100% joy.
Why Zentangle Is the Ultimate Stress Buster
Let’s face it: life is BUSY. Between work, family, and trying to figure out what’s for dinner, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where Zentangle swoops in like a superhero with a pen.
Mindfulness on Paper: Zentangle helps you focus on the present moment. As you draw each line, your brain slows down, and suddenly, the chaos of the day feels a little more manageable. It’s like meditation, but with doodles.
Screen-Free Creativity: In a world full of notifications and never-ending scrolling, Zentangle gives you permission to unplug. Grab your pen, put on some relaxing music, and just draw. Your eyes (and your brain) will thank you.
Feel-Good Vibes: There’s something magical about watching a design come to life. You start with a blank page, and by the end, you’ve created something beautiful. It’s an instant confidence booster.
Tools of the Trade: What You’ll Need to Start Zentangling
Evening creative session (March 2025) – these designs look easy but require patience
Before you dive into your first Zentangle masterpiece, let’s talk supplies. The good news? You don’t need much to get started.
Paper: Any paper will do, but for a true Zentangle experience, try 3.5×3.5-inch tiles (small squares). Watercolor cards or heavy paper are also fabulous if you’re feeling fancy.
Pen: A fine-tip pen is your best friend. Archival ink pens like Micron are great because they don’t smudge and last forever.
Pencil: Use this for light shading to give your designs depth.
That’s it! No need to break the bank. Zentangle is all about simplicity, so start with what you have and upgrade as you go.
Zentangle vs. Doodling: What’s the Difference?
If you’re thinking, “Isn’t Zentangle just doodling with a fancy name?” Well, yes and no.
Doodling: Random, aimless, and often done while zoning out in meetings (we see you).
Zentangle: Intentional, structured, and designed to promote relaxation.
Think of it this way: doodling is like freestyle dancing at a party, while Zentangle is more like choreographed ballet. Both are fun, but Zentangle gives you a sense of purpose and a finished product you can be proud of.
How to Create Your First Zentangle Design
Ready to give Zentangle a try? Follow these simple steps to create your first design:
Start with a Border: Use your pencil to draw a square or rectangle on your paper. This is your “tile.”
Divide the Space: Draw light pencil lines to create sections. These will guide where your patterns go.
Pick Your Patterns: Choose a few tangles (patterns) to practice. Start simple, like dots, lines, and curves.
Draw in Ink: Use your pen to fill each section with a different pattern.
Add Shading: Use your pencil to add depth to your design.
Voilà! You’ve just created your first Zentangle. Cue the applause.
Outline of the overall design is complete. Ready for detailing!Using various sizes of Micron Ink pens, the design now has more depth and shading.
Top 5 Zentangle Patterns for Beginners
If you’re staring at your blank tile and wondering where to start, here are five beginner-friendly tangles to try:
Crescent Moon: A series of curved lines that overlap like little rainbows.
Hollibaugh: Crisscrossing straight lines that look like planks of wood.
Flux: Leaf-shaped patterns that flow together beautifully.
Bales: A grid of floral or star-like shapes.
Zander: A pattern of flowing waves with shading for texture.
These are just the tip of the Zentangle iceberg. Once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are endless.
Zentangle and the Art of Imperfection
One of the coolest things about Zentangle is its embrace of imperfection. Unlike traditional art, there’s no erasing or starting over. If you make a “mistake,” you simply incorporate it into the design.
This mindset is incredibly freeing. It teaches you to let go of perfectionism and just enjoy the process. After all, life isn’t perfect, so why should your art be?
Incorporating Zentangle into Your Art
If you’re already an artist, Zentangle can add a whole new dimension to your work. Try incorporating tangles into:
Watercolor Backgrounds: Draw Zentangle patterns over a colorful wash.
Mixed Media Projects: Combine Zentangle with paint, collage, or even fabric.
Functional Art: Create Zentangle designs on journals, cards, or home décor items.
The fusion of Zentangle with other art forms is endlessly exciting. Go wild!
Summer 2022 – ink feather design with Zentangle and floral patterns on paper
Join the Zentangle Community
One of the best parts of Zentangle is the community. From online forums to local workshops, there are tons of ways to connect with fellow tanglers.
Instagram: Share your designs and get inspired. Follow hashtags like #zentangleart and #tanglingcommunity.
YouTube: Watch tutorials to learn new patterns and techniques.
Local Groups: Check for Zentangle meetups or classes in your area.
Sharing your work not only boosts your confidence but also inspires others to give Zentangle a try.
Final Thoughts: Zentangle Your Way to Happiness
Zentangle isn’t just an art form; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about slowing down, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in the little things—one line at a time. Whether you’re looking to de-stress, spark your creativity, or just try something new, Zentangle has something for everyone.
So grab your pen, let your imagination run wild, and get ready to tangle your way to happiness. You’ve got this!
Slug: unlock-your-inner-artist-with-zentangle Meta Description: Discover the art of Zentangle: a relaxing, meditative drawing technique that sparks creativity. Learn step-by-step tips, benefits, and how Zentangle can transform your artistic journey.
“Texas Longhorn” – painted in 2018 as a custom request. My first longhorn painting in a series of commissioned pieces.
The Journey Begins
The year was 2016, and like many stories of creative awakening, mine began during a period of intense stress. Working full-time in grocery retail management, raising a four-year-old daughter, and navigating the complex waters of depression and anxiety, I found myself desperately seeking something – though I wasn’t quite sure what.
One evening, while looking at a sunset photograph my husband Jay had taken here in Abilene, TX, something clicked. The vibrant colors, the peaceful scene – suddenly, I heard myself think, “I can paint that.” It wasn’t just a thought; it was an invitation to retreat into something that could be just mine, a quiet space where stress couldn’t follow.
I found myself at the local art store, gathering supplies and small canvases – 5×7 and 9×12 sizes that felt manageable. In those early painting sessions, something extraordinary happened. As brush met canvas, I discovered a form of meditation I hadn’t known I needed. There was no pressure, no expectations – just the gentle guidance of the Holy Spirit as colors flowed and shapes emerged.
The beauty of being self-taught lies in the freedom to explore without boundaries. Without formal training telling me what I “should” do, I found myself experimenting with different techniques, learning through trial and error, and developing my own unique style. Nature became my greatest teacher – the way light filters through leaves, how colors blend in a sunset, the delicate patterns in a flower petal. These observations began shaping my artistic voice, but more importantly, they became touchstones in my spiritual journey.
Looking back at those early days, I realize that art became more than just a hobby – it evolved into a form of spiritual practice and emotional healing. Each stroke of the brush became a prayer, a way to connect with something larger than myself while finding peace in the process. Every piece, whether it turned out as planned or took an unexpected turn, became part of not just my artistic growth, but my journey toward emotional well-being. Even the temporary pause in my journey from 2020 to early 2023 taught me valuable lessons about patience, resilience, and the importance of returning to what brings healing and joy.
My first attempt at oil painting from 2010 (left) and my second from 2017 (right)
Finding My Voice: The Evolution of Medium and Message
My artistic journey has been one of constant exploration and evolution, each medium teaching me something new about both art and myself. While those first sunset canvases sparked my passion, it was acrylic painting that truly captured my heart and became my primary focus in the early years.
The discovery of paint pouring opened up an entirely new world of possibilities. This technique became an obsession that I returned to time and again, watching with wonder as colors merged and danced across the canvas in ways I could influence but never fully control. There was something freeing about the process, a reminder that sometimes we need to let go and allow beauty to emerge on its own terms.
15” diameter wooden round board – Fall 2021My favorite paint pour as of October 2021
My experimental spirit led me into the world of resin art, where I found myself creating unique pieces using silicone molds. I would carefully embed faux leaves and swirls of alcohol ink, creating desk weights and coasters that seemed to capture moments frozen in time. This led to holiday-themed creations, incorporating buttons and wooden details into Christmas ornaments – a project I hope to revisit someday. While the possibilities seemed endless, the process was time-consuming and often challenging. As a self-taught artist, each mistake became a lesson, though sometimes these lessons came at the cost of materials and time.
Christmas buttons nestled in epoxy resin with glitter foil backgrounds – October 2018One of many experiments with embedded items in epoxy resin and alcohol ink
This period of experimentation taught me an important lesson about focus. While I loved exploring different techniques, I found myself drawn back to paint pouring and traditional acrylic artwork. It was during this time that people began requesting commissioned pieces, asking me to recreate photos in my distinctive style. One of my pivotal moments came with my first commissioned longhorn piece, which helped me realize that my unique perspective could resonate with others.
The arrival of COVID brought unexpected changes to my artistic journey. When the energy and passion for larger pieces waned, I found solace in watercolors. What began as simple doodles with light color washes evolved into something unexpected. A request from a high school friend for a feather design for her soap business, though ultimately not what she needed, opened my eyes to the beauty of hand-drawn designs. This led me down the path of zentangle art, where I found myself immersed in the Instagram galleries of doodle designers and ink artists, drawing inspiration from their work while developing my own approach.
Throughout this journey of artistic exploration, I’ve learned that each medium has its own voice, its own way of expressing beauty. While some experiments became dead ends, others opened new pathways I never expected to explore. As a self-taught artist, every attempt, whether successful or not, has contributed to my growth and understanding of what I can create.
The Art of Family: Growing Together Through Creativity
They say creativity runs in families, and in our case, it flows through more than three generations like a vibrant stream of inspiration. My journey as an artist hasn’t been a solitary one – it’s been enriched by the creative spirit of both my mother, Heike, and my daughter, Aspen, each of us contributing our unique colors to this beautiful family canvas.
I still remember those early days when Aspen, just four years old, would pull her little chair up to my workspace, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched colors dance across canvas. Paint pouring sessions became our special mother-daughter moments, her tiny hands helping to choose colors and watching in amazement as we tilted the canvas together, creating mesmerizing patterns that neither of us could fully predict. These shared creative moments weren’t just about making art – they were about building bonds and nurturing a shared passion that would grow alongside her.
Aspen nestled in the chaos (Sept. 2018) – amazing how her art skills have evolved!
As Aspen grew, so did her artistic voice. While I found my inspiration in nature and abstract expressions, she developed a remarkable talent for hyper-realistic art and anime-style creations. Where I see beauty in the flow of abstract colors, she sees it in the precise details of human features and expressions. Our styles are different, yet complementary – like two distinct melodies that create a beautiful harmony when played together. Working with acrylics, watercolors, and hand-drawn pieces, she’s developed a distinctive style that never fails to amaze me.
The creative thread in our family extends back to my mother, whose skilled hands bring warmth and beauty through her knitting. Her craftsmanship has always been an inspiration, showing me how dedication to one’s art, regardless of the medium, can create something truly special. When we collaborate, bringing together my painted pieces with her knitted creations, we create unique combinations that speak to the power of family creativity.
Heike (or Oma to family) has knitted items for over 40 years – check out her creations at Handarbeit by Oma on Etsy ❤️
These artistic connections within our family have become more than just shared hobbies – they’re expressions of love, understanding, and mutual support. Watching Aspen develop her own artistic voice while experimenting with alcohol inks and various mediums alongside me has been one of the greatest joys of my creative journey. Every shared project, whether it’s a paint pour or an acrylic piece, strengthens our bond and reminds me that art has the power to connect generations.
This generational flow of creativity naturally extends into our broader community, where we’ve found that sharing our art becomes a way of sharing ourselves. It’s a reminder that creativity, like faith, grows stronger when nurtured within a supportive community. Whether we’re working on individual pieces or collaborating on projects, our family’s artistic journey has shown us that the most beautiful creations often come from hearts connected by love, faith, and a shared passion for bringing beauty into the world.
Faith, Family, and Community: The Heart of Creation
Art, at its most meaningful, reflects the deepest parts of who we are. For me, that means my faith, my family, and my church community are woven into the very fabric of what I create. These elements aren’t just influences on my work – they’re the foundation that gives my art its purpose and meaning.
My creative process has become a form of prayer and meditation, a sacred time where I can connect with God through the act of creation. Some of my most peaceful moments come in the early morning or late evening, after my duties at the church office are complete and the house is asleep. In these quiet hours, I find myself in conversation with the Holy Spirit, letting inspiration flow naturally onto whatever canvas I’m working with. These moments of creative communion have become essential to managing life’s challenges, reminding me that beauty can emerge from our struggles.
Beautiful stained glass greets worshippers each Sunday – Aldersgate has been a spiritual home since 1950 here in Abilene, TX
The rhythm of my creative life is intentionally structured around family and faith commitments. Sundays are strictly reserved for rest and worship, a boundary that helps maintain the sacred balance between art and life. Saturdays are dedicated family time, where I step away from the easel to focus on what matters. These intentional pauses don’t hinder creativity – they enhance it, providing the restoration needed to return to art with renewed energy and inspiration.
My role as a church administrator has unexpectedly enriched my artistic journey. Working in an environment where faith and community intersect has deepened my understanding of how art can serve as a ministry. Whether it’s creating pieces that incorporate scripture verses or designing elements for church events, my art has become a way to share God’s love and beauty with others.
Recently, I’ve begun exploring ways to share this journey with others through planned live creative sessions. Starting in May, I’ll be hosting Thursday evening sessions from 7:00-7:45 PM, where I’ll combine creative demonstration with prayer and casual conversation. These sessions aren’t just about teaching art techniques – they’re about creating a space where creativity and faith can flourish together, where others might find the same healing and joy that I’ve discovered through artistic expression.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about developing zentangle workshops that will allow me to share these gifts with our community in a more structured way. There’s something powerful about sitting together, creating patterns and finding peace in the process. It’s another way that art becomes more than just a personal practice – it becomes a bridge, connecting people through shared creative experiences.
Through all of this – the quiet morning painting sessions, the evening zentangle designs, the upcoming terra cotta pot projects – I’m continually reminded that art is a gift meant to be shared. Whether it’s creating commissioned pieces that capture special moments for families or developing workshops that help others discover their own creative voice, each piece and project is an opportunity to reflect God’s creativity and love.
The Journey Continues: An Invitation to Create Together
As I sit here in my studio space, looking at the array of pieces that mark different chapters of my artistic journey – from that first sunset canvas to my latest terra cotta pot designs – I’m reminded that every creative path is uniquely beautiful. My journey from stressed retail manager to faith-inspired artist hasn’t been a straight line, but rather a colorful path of discovery, healing, and growth.
This blog marks the beginning of a new chapter in that journey. Here, I’ll be sharing not just finished pieces, but the heart behind them – the struggles, the victories, the moments of divine inspiration, and yes, even the beautiful imperfections that make each piece uniquely meaningful. You can expect:
Behind-the-scenes looks at my creative process
Stories of how specific pieces come to life
Tips and insights from my self-taught journey
Updates on new projects and mediums I’m exploring
Reflections on how faith and art intersect
Previews of upcoming live creative sessions
Family collaborations and creative adventures
Starting in May, I’ll be hosting live creative sessions every Thursday evening from 7:00-7:45 PM, where we can connect, create, and pray together. These sessions will be a chance to see the creative process in real-time, ask questions, and perhaps find inspiration for your own artistic journey.
Whether you’re a fellow artist, someone curious about starting their own creative journey, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of handcrafted art, I invite you to join me on this adventure. Together, we’ll explore how art can be more than just creating beautiful things – it can be a path to healing, a form of prayer, and a way to connect with both God and community.
I’ll be sharing new posts once or twice a week, offering glimpses into both the technical and spiritual aspects of creating art. My hope is that this space becomes more than just a blog – I want it to be a gathering place for those who believe in the power of creativity to transform, heal, and inspire.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Here’s to embracing the beauty of imperfection, the joy of creation, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead when we open ourselves to divine inspiration.
