How to Make Henna Circle Designs

Henna, a plant-derived dye that bonds well to protein and thus sticks well to the skin, was used for centuries in Southern Asia to create intricate patterns and designs on the body. Used primarily in ceremonies and rituals, this temporary tattoo dying process is still used today and has been embraced all over the world to create beautiful body art.

Instructions

1. Consult henna circle design patterns. A circle might be an element in a larger image of henna designs, so look for examples of henna designs that incorporate circles for inspiration.

2. Practice your design first. On a piece of paper, practice drawing your circle with the henna applicator, making sure that the applicator is not clogged or has developed any air pockets in the tip. Draw a few circles in varying sizes to practice getting an even flow from the tip of the applicator.

3. Hold the applicator slightly above the surface of the skin and apply consistent pressure on the bottle of henna so that the lines of the circle are the same width all the way around.

4. Retrace the edge of the circle you have drawn with your applicator lightly if the edges are slightly off. If you are correcting a circle, do not apply more henna, simply reshape the existing lines of the circle.

5. Shade your circle by using a cotton swab or the end of your applicator to give depth to your circle designs. Do this by pulling some of the henna away from the edges of the circle so that less henna is near the center of your circle. Use a cotton swab for larger circles for smoother shading.