How to Go About Learning Henna Designs?

Hi Girls!

In my previous post, I shared how I developed interest in mehndi designs. I was fortunate enough to have a friend that was highly skilled and dedicated to teaching me over several months. If you have someone in your family or social circle, then ask them if they can become your mentor. Otherwise, find an institute near your home that provides basic mehndi and bridal mehndi classes. 

Classes are usually affordable. All-female institutes in Pakistan teach anywhere from Rs.300 p/m to Rs.1000 p/m. If you have a higher budget, you can enroll in classes at an up-scale parlor. Classes will then cost you a whopping Rs.3000 - Rs. 10,000 or more! 

What should you bring to a mehndi design class? 

I suggest bringing a notebook, pencil and a scale. Become aware of basic henna patterns before you move onto complex designs. You'll need to practice a lot as henna patterns become complicated as you continue to learn. Once you are able to recognize and draw out different designs, purchase mehndi design books. They are available at book stores and even the Sunday market! They cost about Rs.30 and come in all varieties. Purchase simple mehndi designs and bridal design books.

I suggest creating a card-board hand pattern. Find a spare cardboard and trace your hand as neatly as you can. You can also use thicker paper. Then, cut out the pattern. The hand-pattern is useful as you'll need it when you need to draw henna designs. You can always draw your hand every time you need to draw out designs but this is time-consuming. You can also create a foot pattern in a similar manner.

I personally believe drawing out henna designs is very useful. You feel more comfortable applying mehndi patterns on hands as you've put enough practice hours in drawing them out on paper! Another benefit is you'll learn about spacing. You don't want a henna pattern to be too big or too small. By practicing them on paper, you'll learn which pattern size is appropriate. 

If you're ready to apply mehndi, then grab a friend or a family member on whose hand you can practice on. You should bring a small bowl with you. Mehndi cones come with a pin inserted into its opening. Once you remove the pin, you will need to empty some of its content into the bowl. By removing excess material, you'll be able to use the cone a lot easier. At first, it will be difficult to hold the cone properly. Either too much henna will come out or not enough. You should hold the cone near the bottom and start applying slowly. Bring a rag with you as well. You can use the rag whenever you make a mistake. 

That's my take on learning henna designs, what are your tips?