Zentangle practice - sketchbook

“There are no mistakes in Zentangle, so there is no need for an eraser. If you do not like the look of a stroke you have made, it then becomes only an opportunity to create a new tangle, or transform it using an old trusty pattern. A Zentangle tile is meant to be a surprise that unfolds before the creator's eyes, one stroke at a time.”
― Beckah Krahula, One Zentangle A Day

“Keep creating, it will change your life.” Not only does creating add beauty to your life, but also it improves our attitude and personal outlook.”
― Beckah Krahula, One Zentangle A Day

Zentangle is an art form that combines drawing and meditation, often referred to as a method of "structured doodling." It was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas in the early 2000s.

Origins and Founders

Rick Roberts: A former monk, Rick brought his understanding of meditation and mindfulness to the Zentangle method.

Maria Thomas: An accomplished calligrapher and artist, Maria's expertise in intricate designs and patterns provided the artistic foundation for Zentangle.

Key Principles of Zentangle

Deliberate Focus: The method encourages deliberate and mindful drawing, helping individuals to focus and relax.

No Mistakes: In Zentangle, there are no mistakes, only opportunities. This principle helps alleviate the fear of failure and encourages creativity.

Structured Patterns: Tangling involves creating structured patterns with repetitive strokes, which can lead to a state of flow and relaxation.

Accessibility: The method is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of artistic experience or ability.

"Each tangle is a step in a meditative dance, where creativity and mindfulness intertwine." – Unknown

"Zentangle is more than art; it’s a mindful practice

 that nurtures the soul." – Unknown

"In the patterns of Zentangle, we find a mirror of our

inner peace and creativity." – Unknown

"Zentangle is a reminder that even the simplest lines

can create something extraordinary." – Unknown

 When you tangle, you give yourself the gift of time and space to create something beautiful, one stroke at a time." – Unknown

Enjoy your new day

❤❤❤

Some slow slow stitched projects

Slow stitching can be a meditative practice, offering a peaceful and contemplative way to engage with needlework and fabric.

Set the Intention: Begin by setting an intention for your slow stitching meditation. This could be to cultivate a sense of calm, to focus on gratitude, or to simply be present in the moment.

Create a Quiet Space: Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. Settle into a relaxed position, whether sitting or lying down, and take a few deep breaths to center yourself.

Choose Your Materials: Select your fabric, thread, and needle for stitching. Choose colors and textures that resonate with you and evoke a sense of peace and tranquility

Focus on the Process: As you begin stitching, bring your full attention to the task at hand. Notice the feel of the fabric, the movement of the needle, and the rhythm of your stitches. Allow yourself to become fully immersed in the process of stitching.

Practice Mindfulness: Use your stitching as an anchor for mindfulness, bringing your awareness to the present moment. Notice any thoughts or distractions that arise, and gently guide your attention back to your stitching whenever you find your mind wandering.

Embrace Imperfection: Slow stitching is not about perfectionism; it's about embracing imperfection and allowing yourself to enjoy the process without judgment. If you make a mistake or your stitches aren't perfectly even, simply acknowledge it and keep stitching.

Cultivate Gratitude: As you stitch, take moments to reflect on what you're grateful for in your life. Express gratitude for the simple joys, the beauty of nature, or the gift of creativity.

Savor the Silence: Allow yourself to savor the silence and stillness of the moment as you stitch. Let go of any need for external stimulation and relish the quietude of your stitching meditation.

End with Reflection: When you feel ready to conclude your stitching meditation, take a few moments to reflect on your experience. Notice how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally after engaging in this practice.

Express Appreciation: Finally, express appreciation for yourself for taking the time to nourish your spirit through slow stitching meditation. Carry the sense of peace and mindfulness you've cultivated with you as you go about the rest of your day.

By incorporating slow stitching into your meditation practice, you can cultivate a sense of calm, presence, and gratitude while engaging in a creative and soothing activity. Enjoy the journey of stitching and the mindful awareness it brings to each stitch.

Wish you a happy

creActive day!

❤

 

Slow stitching can be time-consuming, but it's also deeply rewarding.

 

Slow stitching can be time-consuming, but it's also deeply rewarding.

The slow, deliberate pace allows you to fully immerse yourself in the process, savoring each stitch and moment of creation.

While it may take longer to complete a piece, the journey itself becomes a form of meditation—a chance to slow down, be present, and find joy in the act of creating.

Remember, the value of slow stitching lies not just in the finished product, but in the mindful and meaningful experience of crafting something by hand.

Some of my past projects. Its pouches, journals, and journal pages, stitches on paper, bohemian style and my style. Sometimes i wonder how many hours i have spent stitching, but i have never counted. To much fun, to much joy in each piece of work.

"In the pages of a diary lies the untold stories of a life." - This evokes the idea that a diary holds the narrative of our journey through life, preserving memories, experiences, and moments that may otherwise be forgotten.

"Through a diary, we immortalize our thoughts and emotions." - This beautifully captures how a diary serves as a timeless repository of our innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences, preserving them for posterity and allowing us to reflect on our journey through life.

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever.”
― John Keats, Endymion: A Poetic Romance

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile,

 but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.”
― Thich Nhat Hanh

Half an hour's meditation each day is essential, except when you are busy. Then a full hour is needed. - Saint Francis de Sale

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