How to make mehendi (henna drawings)

Mehendi is the application of drawings on the body, which, in comparison with tattoos, are short-lived and last only a couple of weeks. This feature allows you to apply different types of designs an infinite number of times. In addition, unlike the same tattoos, mehendi is absolutely harmless to the skin..

It is very difficult to trace the origin of this art. Many argue that mehendi originated in India, but this is far from the case. Even in ancient Egypt, you can see its origins, where henna drawings were applied to women of the upper strata of society. Now, many associate this art with Indian culture and traditions..

Indian mehendi is something unimaginable. Countless drawings that use a variety of symbols. An example is the images of different animals, trees, flowers, etc. Also in India, mehendi is used not only as a means to decorate the body, but also for various kinds of rituals and traditional holidays..

Each drawing has a special meaning. For example, the image of an elephant, according to legend, brings good luck and success to its owner..

How to make mehendi (henna drawings) – how to make and how to save?

To create the pattern, henna is used, which is extracted from the cinchona tree. First, leaves are plucked from the trees, which are subsequently dried and broken until a powder is formed. This powder can be stored for about six months if the package is tight. It is he who is used to create a paste, which is ultimately used for painting on the body..

Various ingredients can be added to the paste. This is necessary for her to form a special color. As ingredients can be ash, coffee, lemon juice, etc..

A wooden or metal stick, a brush, or a special tube with ready-made henna can serve as a tool for drawing patterns. The application process can take place both by hand and with the help of a stencil, which is prepared in advance..

After applying henna, it is necessary to wait for 6 to 8 hours. This time is necessary for the drawing to dry. It is undesirable to wet the painting, the resulting crust should come off by itself. The finally dried paste can be sprinkled with lemon juice, or the drawing can be wet with special oil. This way the mehendi will last longer..

It is also worth considering that the color of henna darkens in a day or two after application. Therefore, do not be surprised that the patterns will eventually acquire a pale red color..

How long can mehendi last

The time that mehendi can last on the skin depends on various factors: the color of the paste, the place on which the drawing was applied, how often water got on it. It is also believed that white and black mixtures wash off faster. In general, depending on these factors, the drawing can last from a week to a month..

For many, mehendi is a tradition, for others it is a way of self-expression and a kind of tribute to fashion. But one thing for sure does not raise any doubts, mehendi is a real art that undoubtedly deserves admiration..

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Prepared by: serjfl (Zagidullin Sergey Vladlenovich)