Henna is a coloring plant used since ancient times. When applied to the skin, usually as a temporary art form, as is done in India, Pakistan, Arab countries, and the expatriate communities of these areas, it is called Mehndi. Mehndi patterns became popular in North America and Europe in the mid-1990s, where they are associated with tattoos. This is misleading because mehndi does not involve the permanent insertion of pigment under the epidermis.
Unlike the Indian subcontinent, when mehndi designs are done in the West, there is no ritual involved. Also, guidelines and rules about what can and cannot be done are often absent. The goal is decoration or just having fun.
Before applying henna mehndi, it is useful to know about a design.
An easy way to apply henna is through pre-made stencils that you can use a brush on. It is for beginners or for those who do not want to make mistakes. However, the final result will not be as refined as one done by hand in freestyle. There are many websites that offer free mehndi designs to download.
A popular way to draw henna designs is through henna cones that you can roll yourself. Henna cones are to henna what pens are to ink and are preferred when very delicate bridal mehndi patterns are desired. Keep in mind that they can be messy and for this reason many prefer to use toothpicks, compensating for the loss of detail.
One does not need artistic skills to create mehndi patterns. All it takes is a little imagination and patience. In fact, traditional mehndi patterns are made up of combinations of simple geometric shapes like curves, triangles, or hearts.
Start by choosing a simple shape as your dominant theme, such as a circle. Expand it from there. The design can be done on the hand or on another part of the body. If you’re new, it’s best to get it right on paper first. Keep in mind that henna dye dries quickly and forms hard-to-remove stains. The task is as serious as giving a haircut.
Once you’re happy with the design on paper, you can do one of two things. Draw the design and use the sketch as a guide. Or use a charcoal sheet to transfer the mehndi design onto the skin. The first method is preferred because it allows you to get the correct size more easily.
Before drawing your first design, it is recommended that you watch some videos on bridal mehndi design. You will notice the incredible diversity of styles from one designer to another. Over time, and with practice, you will discover the mehndi designs that flow naturally through you, maybe you even decide to become a professional bridal mehndi designer.