How to Create Mehndi Designs

People around the world have practiced the art of mehndi -- or henna tattoos -- for centuries. The intricate designs are often worn in conjunction with religious rituals to cultivate good luck and blessings. They're also a popular form of self-expression, offering a beautiful and temporary form of body art.

These illustrated step-by-step instructions feature easy-to-follow exercises showing how to combine dots, swirls, ripples, and other patterns into original versions of the traditional patterns. Guidelines include suggestions for combining the simple shapes that form the basic elements of mehndi, a selection of motifs, practice pages with unfinished patterns, many helpful tips, and plenty of samples for coloring.