How To : Do Mehendi (henna tattoo)

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July 16th, 2010

How To : Do Mehendi (henna tattoo)

general info

DIFFICULTY:

Okay

TIME:

24 hours

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

Henna Powder or Mehendi cones (go to your local South asian speciality store or try amazon.com)
lemon juice
stencils or other artistic inspiration
plastic bags

Average:

Your rating: None

By Veda K.
Mehendi is a type of body art popular in South Asia and the Middle East. It’s usually used to decorate the palms and feet of a bride and acts as a bonding experience for the women in the wedding party. “The darker the henna - the happier the marriage” is a common superstition in India. Mehendi is similar to a temporary tattoo and it’s a great way to change your look during the summer (even if you’re not getting married)! Henna uses natural ingredients to stain your skin and lasts about two weeks.

Decide where you want your henna tattoo!

Traditionally mehendi is worn on the palms, arms, or feet! But, you can wear it anywhere you want. However, remember the henna will stain your clothes when wet, so it’s best to start your tattoo at night in your pjs. Also - remember to ask your parents’ permission!!!!

Lay out plastic bags and start tattoo-ing!

If your henna came in a cone you can use the cone itself as an applicator - like a pastry bag. If your henna came in a tub make yourself a a cone using card stock and place the henna inside. For more detailed designs use toothpicks! Next, wash the area you plan to tattoo. Mehendi is usually free styled and most artists draw flower and paisley themes. However, it will be hard to free style your first time applying henna. Instead you can copy a picture you find online, use a stencil, or draw out a pattern before tattooing. Be very careful and keep a wet wash cloth handy to erase mistakes!

Waiting!

Once you are happy with your art - let it dry. The henna will look greenish black on your skin at first, but once it’s dry it will stain red. Stay still and let the henna paste harden. To achieve a dark red color, spray lemon juice on the tattooed area. You’ll get the best results if you let the paste dry over night. Once your henna is dry wash it off!