Can't take a live Zentangle basics class with a CZT? This lesson is the next best thing. Learn the basics of the Zentangle® Method and understand the reasons behind this successful art method and how to reach Zen flow.


1 hour Beginner Video recording, plus TWO extra Intermediate Back-to-basics sessions!


Includes video captions!

Your Instructor: Eni Oken

I'm Eni Oken, artist since the age of 8, art instructor and teacher for over 30 years, author of hundreds of articles, tutorials, video lessons and ebooks online and books in print on various different subjects such as fantasy design, jewelry making and in recent years, Zentangle method. My true passion is exploring methods and tools on how a person can create something remarkable in art, and teaching it to others so they can grow artistically.

CZT® since 2016

Contact Eni • See Eni Oken's Art



What people said about this lesson...


"Holy Cow! I thought I was going to be completely bored with this video. I almost did not download it. I myself have been Tangling for over two years and got my CZT 18 months ago. Other than the founders this lesson was the best instruction, clear definitions, more information than any other time I have heard a basics class. I am going to recommend this to every person I meet that wants a basic lesson, who can't attend my own. And I'm going to use it as a model as to how I should teach my basics class. You describe everything that is important to the story, the focus, the relaxation, the Zen or magic moments... I love that you demonstrated the difference between light source shading and the Zentangle method. I love that you explained why you use an F pencil, I love the whole darn video. Now when I go back to my ebooks I will hear your voice when I am reading the instructions. This was amazing and I almost skipped it. Are you planning to convert any of the other ebook lessons into videos? I hope so. Absolutely awesome video."

-Terri D., via email


"This reminder of the basic method was helpful and restorative after days of online challenges. I enjoyed the suggestions for going beyond the basic for each tangle. I will revisit this video to re-center my creative process. Thank you."

-Sandra McClellan, via email


"Eni, even though I have been tangling for years I still learned several things from your video on my tangling basics. Some of the wording that you used to explain things gave me more choices to explain when I am teaching. I loved your second tile when you showed tangleations that can be done. I’ve never heard of Printemps being created with multiple C shapes nor have I seen crescent moon made with C shapes. I like the fact that you continually made reference to the five elemental strokes. I think that’s important for students to be able to have some kind of reference and anchor to the technique of Zentangle. I loved your shading ideas especially with the light source. That’s a new concept for me that I haven’t tried . Thank you for all your hard work that you do in producing and putting together these Wonderful videos."

-Terry Hall, via email


"I really appreciated the opportunity to revisit methodology, this time from a perspective new to me! Oh, and the shading tips! Wow! Like manna from heaven. Thank you, lovely, for including this for new clubbers ❤"

-Susan Valentino, via email


"This was a great class. I have been experimenting with tangling for a couple of years now but i learned so much from this class about variations and shading. I can't wait to learn more! "

-Julie Gray, via email


"A very nice "back to basics" video. I had forgotten some of your shading techniques. I know what I'll be putting into practice now. I especially enjoyed the shading of bales and printemps. I don't remember seeing the shading the inner top corners of bales. I can't wait to put these into action! Thank you, Eni."

-Theresa Caillouette, via teachable


"I am new to your Art classes and did my first Tangling Basics video this morning. I thoroughly enjoyed learning from you and I am very happy with the quality of my shading following your guidelines. Thank you so much and I look forward to joining you in your live online classes when I can. Kind Regards."
-Sue Ingram, via email


"What a delightful and wonderful session! I have just started with Zentangle and have drawn some tiles after reading "Joy of Zentangle." This class really helped me to understand the basic concepts and practice. Your instruction is clear and concise and you describe the process quite beautifully. So glad I found you and this class! For me - I had a little trouble with the shading only because I don't understand the why of it in Zentangle. I have taken a few drawing classes and understand the why of the shading there - say if I am drawing a cup or an apple and how and where the light would hit that object. I liked the tile better before the shading. I did like your instruction so much that I am looking at taking another class. An excellent experience! Thank you."

-Gigi, via Teachable


"I really enjoyed this beginning class. I didn't find it to be too difficult. Per your suggestion, pausing and drawing works well with the video. It's interesting how the shading makes a big difference in the final appearance of the tile."

-Kelly Pothier , via Teachable


"Beautifully paced and explained as the examples are being drawn and embellished.
Love the two-pronged approach: separate examples of basic and a bit more advanced technique, to fit wherever you are in your tangling process. Thoughtful and very through as to the "whys" and the "hows" at each step in the process. Could not be improved upon in any way I could see. Absolutely wonderful presentation and step out!"

-Laurel Summers, via email


"I’ve taken both an introductory course with a CZT as well as following along with the Zentangle Primer and neither experience included the more advanced shading techniques which, I found interesting and enlightening. Thank you Eni for your thorough explanation from both points of view!"
-Christine Kreeger, via email