The design of DNA‐binding proteins for the specific control of the gene expression is one of the big challenges for several research laboratories in the post‐genomic era. An artificial transcription factor with the desired DNA binding specificity could work as a powerful tool and drug to regulate the target gene. The zinc‐finger proteins, which typically contain many fingers linked in a tandem fashion, are some of the most intensively studied DNA‐binding proteins. In particular, the Cys₂His₂‐type zinc finger is one of the most common DNA‐binding motifs in eukaryotes. A simple mode of DNA recognition by the Cys₂His₂‐type zinc‐finger domain provides an ideal framework for designing proteins with new functions. Our laboratory has utilized several design strategies to create new zinc‐finger peptides/proteins by redesigning the Cys₂His₂‐type zinc‐finger motif. This review focuses on the aspects of design strategies, mainly from our recent results, for the creation of artificial zinc‐finger proteins, and discusses the possible application of zinc‐finger technology for gene regulation and gene therapy.