How to apply Two Tone Henna Patterns |
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After seven years working with henna,
I grew dissatisfied with the single dimension of traditional henna application.
I wanted to expand the tone and color available in my patterns to create a greater
variety and elegance for my clients. I developed a simple method of applying
two-toned henna to fulfill my desire for a richer and more painterly henna technique.
This method requires only a little
extra time and forethought but no extra materials. Two-Toned henna patterns
are applied in 2 or 3 steps. The major design elements should be planned out
before you begin to apply the henna. When considering the pattern to be used,
designs with many 'closed' elements lend themselves particularly well to two-toned
henna. Look for patterns which have variation in width of line for added depth
and elegance. The variation in line width will break the image up and can be
used to draw attention to one element or another. |
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We prefer
letting the henna set on the skin overnight, however 6-8 hours is sufficient.
For continuity, we will only suggest overnight.
1. Apply
the outline of the entire pattern.Wrap the paste in medical tape or seal
with lemonade and let sit on skin overnight. |
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2. In
the morning remove the wraps and the first application of paste. |
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3. Apply henna to
the elements you wish to give added depth, interest, variety, and color. Consider the balance
of the entire design carefully. You want to create a balance of light
and dark areas. Be conscious of the weight of each line and do not allow
the fine details to be overwhelmed or disguised by the medium tone of
henna you are now adding. Allow the second application
of henna to remain on the skin for 3-10 minutes, depending on the quality
of henna and the tone you desire. |
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4. Remove the second
application of henna. A little lemon juice
will remove all traces of paste leaving clean and crisp lines. Do not
use water to remove the paste, as it will interfere with the dye quality. |
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5. 24 hours after
all henna paste has been removed. The stain will continue
to deepen and darken over the next 48 hours. |
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6. 48 hours after
the paste has been removed. The stain will have
gradually deepened to a richer red-brown tone. The stains fade away naturally
within 1-3 weeks. Enjoy your elegant
new henna.
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