23 July 2013

MEHNDI- Introduction, Lesson 1

MEHNDI....


Have you wanted to apply your own mehndi or to someone else but was at a loss as to where to begin??? Does looking at all the intricacies on the design give you a dizzy spell??? Well if you look closely at any design, it is broken up into little elements....similar to the letters of the alphabets. If you are able to learn the formations of these elements, you could be well on your way to becoming an aspiring mehndi designer/artist. The first step is....do not be intimidated by the complex designs. Follow these simple step by step, how to tutorials and find out just how easy it is to create your very own patterns.




What is mehndi??



Mehndi is the ancient art of body painting using a paste made from the finely ground leaves of the Henna plant. Ornate designs are made on the hands, palms and arms more often for a celebration. It is also used to dye the fingernails, hair, wool and even leather. More recently, tattoo artists are using it to apply tattoos for those that just want a temporary thrill.


How to Apply Mehndi....


Just as when we are little, we are taught to form and practice shaping the individual letters of the alphabets which when put together form words and which is further built up to create sentences, Henna designs too have simple elements which when applied together form exclusive and breathtaking designs.


Practice these elements over transparent paper and then on blank paper until drawing them freehand becomes second nature just like your writing does.


Once you are comfortable drawing the singular patterns, you are ready to start practicing with mehndi using a mehndi cone to create more complex patterns.


Remember, your henna powder should be well sifted and strained before mixing into a paste.


The following elements and sequences are extracted off Catherine Cartwright-Jones(TapDancing Lizard)




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