Welcome to July!

It's been a busy time so far, with lots of fun design work going on, and lots more to come before the month is out. Here's a few samples of my most recent work. The first one took about half an hour, and turned out really nicely! It was a warm day, so we just let it dry and come off with no wrap or seal. It came out a nice deep brown, even on the upper arm! I absolutely love the Celebration henna from HennaPage.

A full arm floral design, Persian based.

 This one was a challenge because of narrow lines, but came out really well. Thanks to dextrose-heavy paste, the henna stayed on for a long time without a seal. About 24 hours after paste-removal, it was almost black! Sadly, due to every day gardening duties, it only lasted about a week. This is the perpetual struggle with palm designs - they darken so nicely, but then come off so quickly if you're active!

A simple palm and finger tips design, with Indian elements.

 Next is an almost Greek design, with hanging grape bunches, vines, and leaves. This was done for someone who wasn't really into traditional African or Indian motifs, but really likes the "viney" ones.

Full hand grapes and vines motif (sorry it's not close-up).

 Much like palms, I have a love-hate relationship with working on the soles of feet. One reason is the same as that for palms. The henna always darkens really beautifully, but then rubs off far too fast because of use, especially at the ball and heel of the foot. In addition just the application process can be difficult with feet. Ticklish clients often have trouble holding still, and who can blame them. Once the paste is on, it again problematic to keep it there - no one wants to hop on one foot for hours. The best solution I've found, which still isn't perfect, is to have them sit while the paste dries, then seal it with spray hair gel. Let that dry too, add a second coat, dry, and put on a clean sock. It's also just a good idea to avoid really tiny detailed designs, because if they squish at all, it's noticeable.

A stars and sun sole of the foot design. Careful, application may tickle!

 Not much to say on this one. It's simple and can be incorporated into a larger design. Made bigger, it can be nice for the back, belly, or chest. It can easily be made into a bracelet, armlet, or anklet, too.

A small ankle design. This one is also nice on the inner wrist or bicep.

This one is much like the previous one, pretty on its own, and easy to make larger or integrate into a more complex design.

A simple "anywhere" design, here on the calf.

 And lastly, the very simple floral pattern. This one seems to be a favorite for preteen and teen girls, especially when made into a bracelet or anklet, or done across the lower back.

A very simple floral and vine design. It can easily be made into a band by repeating two or more times.

I hope you've enjoyed these! More next week after the family vacation.