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Greetings!
The development of the Zentangle Method has been an exciting, fulfilling, and wild ride from the very beginning. Much like creating a tile, it unfolded one stroke at a time. Each day, event, product, friendship, and milestone emerged naturally, without rushing ahead. Rick and Maria were cautious not to plan too far ahead and were careful to evaluate their current stroke to help dictate the next. This open-ended, open-minded, and open-hearted approach created space to discover, explore, and pivot when needed. Along the way, we gathered priceless memories... many that we still love revisiting. This year, we’re revving up the engine in the Zentangle Time Machine and traveling back in time to reflect on some of our favorite moments. Join us as we remember, rediscover, and perhaps experience for the first time remarkable tangles, techniques, events, materials, and more from years past.
| | This month, we invite you to journey back with us to June, 2011, and the introduction of the Zentangle Black Tiles. | | |
Maria writes...
Not sure when (or where?) the subject of a black tile came to be. . . Rick and I were so over the moon about Zentangle, that dating and time stamping did not seem to be a priority. As a calligrapher, I loved the technique of writing in white ink on black paper and used it often. So, translating that into the Zentangle Method seemed like a natural progression.
We gathered up all the black papers and white pens we could find and decided to produce this next iteration of the Zentangle tile.
Like diving into a cold lake, it was exciting and refreshing to take our drawings to another level.
(Rick notes that I have never dived into a cold lake. Ever. But if I ever do... I imagine it to feel like this. I am a creative, after all.)
You can see the first introduction of Zentangle Black tiles in this newsletter.
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So, what have Zentangle Black Tiles been up to since 2011?
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June 2011: Also introduced at the same time as black tiles were ATC (Artist Trading Card) tiles.
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May 2013: Introduction of Black Zendala tiles.
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August 2013: Introduction of the zenStone! These soapstone "pencils" left the softest and luscious mark on black tiles. These have since been retired but if you can find some soap stone, give it a try on your black tiles.
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January 2016: Introduction of black Bijou tiles.
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October 2017: We introduced the Zentangle Project Pack series, featuring Zentangle Black tiles.
| | New in the Zentangle Store | | |
We are thrilled to announce the newest member of the black tile family, the 5xPhive! This larger than usual surface, now available in our 100% cotton black paper, is a new canvas for creativity.
Available in packs of 21 (bulk options available to CZTs).
| | | Zentangle Time Machine Treasures | | |
Zentangle Black Tile Bundle
Join us all month as we dig into tangling on dark surfaces. Explore fun ways to make your tangles pop off inky dark tiles. For a limited time, we will be offering a special bundle of black tiles featuring five different shapes and sizes all made from our custom made, black, 100% cotton paper.
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Black Tile Tool Bundles
To complement our special Black Tile Bundle, we have assembled some of our favorite tools for working on dark surfaces. Choose from two fun assortments or collect them all because can you ever really have too many gel pens?
| | When black tiles were introduced, the tangle tripoli also made its debut! This month, grab your tangling supplies and tangle along with Molly as she explores tripoli on our new black 5xPhive tiles. | | Looking for more tangle inspiration? | | Zentangle Project Pack No. 29 | | |
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step"
-Tao Te Ching
And a masterpiece of a thousand tangles begins with a single stroke. We often hear how creating a larger piece of artwork can be daunting. Our minds become filled with the intricate details of the result, and we become overwhelmed with the how. We think too much about why we can't do something that we lose sight of the fact that we most likely can.
In this Project Pack, we will create on a larger tangled piece together, supporting one another every step of the way. Using a new custom Scroll-Z template, we will work from tangle to tangle, focusing on inventive ways to blend and connect tangles to create a seamless composition. It is also an opportunity to embrace the "No Mistakes" and "Anything is Possible One Stroke At A Time" philosophies.
Videos will be released via our website and newsletter every day beginning April 3, 2026.
Remember, part of the fun of the Zentangle Project Pack Series is the element of surprise. Please refrain from sharing or posting photos of the contents prior to the release of the videos. Thank you!
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| Become a Certified Zentangle Teacher | |
Register by July 1, 2026 for Early Bird Pricing!
Attend In Person: $2325.00 (shared room) - $2695.00 (private room)
Attend Online: $1500.00 (returning CZT) - $1995.00 (new student)
We recommend registering as early as possible, as we expect in-person spots to fill quickly. Our next in-person CZT Training will not be until spring 2028.
For more details about our CZT Training program, please visit our website.
| | | | One thing we love about Lady Aura is that she loves to repeat herself. In 2026, Lady Aura will be sharing blogs, newsletters, and products that you may have missed. Be sure to check them out! | | |
With Gratitude and Appreciation,
Rick, Maria, Martha, Molly, and everyone at Zentangle HQ
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