Things You'll Need:
- Powdered henna
- Application tool
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Step 1
Choose a symbol. Select the conji character for any concept you can imagine, such as "love" or "peace."
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Step 2
Look in a book to discover a picture of your character. Ensure that the character is correct in context, and that you understand how to apply it in the correct position. Find a native Japanese speaker to help you with this, if possible.
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Step 3
Get some henna. Purchase henna online or at Indian or Middle Eastern specialty stores.
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Step 4
Mix the henna by sifting the powdered henna. Then add sugar (in a 1:5 ratio of sugar to henna) and enough lemon juice to make a thick paste. The sugar and the lemon juice help the henna stick to the skin longer, resulting in a darker stain. Use a ceramic bowl and plastic spoon to mix it, as the henna can tarnish metal.
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Step 5
Select and fill your application tool. Use an oil painting brush to replicate traditional Asian calligraphy. Choose a carrot bag, jag bottle, syringe or cellophane cone to create a more delicate design.
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Step 6
Draw the conji character in henna, copying the picture you found in Step 2. Add some flowers or other embellishment around the character, if desired.
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Step 7
Let the henna dry and stay on your skin as long as possible to get the darkest and longest-lasting stain. Pick or wash the henna off your skin and enjoy your temporary body art.
