How to Draw a Zig-Zag Zebra + Fun Classroom Art Project

Day 3: Zig-Zag Zebra – September Silly Sketches Challenge

It’s Day 3 of the September Silly Sketches Doodle Challenge, and today we’re welcoming one of the most iconic patterned animals — the zebra! 🦓

Each day this month, we’re doodling one animal + one pattern, keeping it light, quick, and a little silly. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s about sparking creativity, playing with ideas, and showing up for just a few minutes each day with your pen and paper.

The Prompt: Zig-Zag Zebra

Today’s suggested pattern is zig zags, but how you use them is entirely up to you. You can follow the prompt literally or use it as a springboard to find your own inspiration.

Here’s what I tried:

• I started with one big zig zag and used it as the base shape for my zebra’s entire body.
• I added playful wavy zig zags in the background for a sense of movement and fun - and turned them into birds.
• I added a striped zig zag mane!
• And just for silliness, I doodled a zebra tail shaped like a triangle! ⚡

Quick Tips for Your Zebra Doodle

Feeling a bit unsure about how to start? Here are some ideas to help:

• Keep it simple: Feeling the midweek slump? Just doodle a patch of zig zags — no zebra required! You’ll still keep the habit going.
• Fill the page: Alternate between smooth, even zig zags and wild, wobbly ones that loop and dance across the paper.
• Shape play: Try sketching your zebra’s body as one giant zig zag or layering several zig zags together to build its form.
• Go realistic (or not!): You can aim for a more traditional zebra — or let the silliness run free with unusual shapes and details.

Fun fact: No two zebras have the same stripes! Your doodle doesn’t need to match anyone else’s either. Let it be uniquely yours.

For the Classroom: Zebra Directed Drawing

If you’d like to bring this prompt into your classroom, I’ve created a Zig-Zag Zebra Directed Drawing and Writing Pack that’s perfect for young artists.

It includes step-by-step instructions for drawing a zebra, plus fun writing activities to extend the creativity.

Keep It Fun and Flexible

Remember, the suggested pattern is just that — a suggestion. You can always swap in a different pattern you’ve noticed in your day, or even combine several into one drawing.

This challenge is about creative play, not rules. Whether you spend two minutes doodling a quick zig zag or twenty minutes crafting a full zebra scene, it’s all part of the process.

Your Turn!

Grab your pen or pencil, draw a few bold zig zags, and see where they take you.

Will your zebra be realistic, abstract, or completely silly?

Share your doodle with me on Instagram — I’d love to see how you bring today’s prompt to life! 🖤🤍