How To Apply Two-Toned Henna Designs

Having worked with henna for many years, I have always enjoyed experimenting and trying out different tecniques to expand my artistic creativity. Expanding the tone and patterns of the henna has enabled me to create a greater variety and elegance for my clients. Through research I have found a variety of simple methods of applying two-toned henna, which gives the henna a richer, painted effect.

Two-Toned henna patterns are applied in 2 or 3 stages. The main design needs to be planned out before applying the henna. i.e decide which parts of the design will be lighter and which will be darker.

The two methods are the Algerian technique and the Left Overture technique

Algerian/Double application technique :

1. The henna is first painted in large areas, left for 10 to 15 min to dry, then washed off. A little lemon juice will remove all traces of paste leaving clean and crisp lines. Do not rinse with water as this affects the oxidation process. A light to medium, pale orange stain is created because the henna is removed quickly.
2. The second application of henna is then applied to areas requiring detail and ideally left on overnight.
3. When removing the second layer of henna the pattern is barely visible, however during the day the second henna application oxidises to a deep red and the pattern emerges.
4. On the third day the pattern is clearly visible

Left Overture technique:

1. This involves using stale or used henna to achieve a shaded effect. If you save your leftover paste, the paste will gradually begin to demise during the next few days.
2. When applied together with a fresh henna paste, the slightly demised paste will leave a brilliant orange stain contrasting the dark brown stain from the fresh paste.
3. Applying the henna in this way, can enable the design to be created in one stage.