Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Traditional Henna Tattoo - Great Art in 20 minutes!

traditional henna tattoo design
Here is another photo of henna tattoo. This pattern was done at The Midnight Sun in about 20 minutes. This is a free hand pattern, or a "Chef's Choice" henna tattoo.

Art like this takes about 20 minute to complete. If you choose to have a spritz of the lemon sugar glaze applied to secure the henna paste to the skin, you may want to wait an additional 10 minutes for the henna paste to dry a bit before the glaze goes on.

Henna tattoo is a heat activated art form. As temperatures in Jacksonville Florida become cooler.. henna will no longer be offered on a walk-in basis at the Midnight Sun.

Henna gives the best finished color in the summer time because the weather is warmer, we tend to sweat.. thus the pores open & the henna paste can penetrate the skin.

Also, when we are sweating, our perspiration  helps the paste stay moist on the skin.. and this also helps to get a good finished color.


Henna parties are still a good way to experience henna during the cooler months. For more information about henna parties, please contact Ann George Studios, Inc. via the Spirit Vision Henna website.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Henna Tattoo for Women of Color



Here is one of many photos taken at a spa day party I was so happy to attend.

Many people see photos of henna tattoo on European skin and think that perhaps henna will not give a good result of different shades of skin.

Mehandi is not a European art form, but comes from the cultures of Africa, India and the Middle East.

Henna stains best on the palms of the hands for people of all races and skin types. The next best color of stain occurs when the henna is applied to the back of the hand.

This photo features a simple, yet elegant henna pattern applied to the back of the hand.

This is not black henna, rather a photo of the paste on the skin.

Notice how the pattern makes the hand more lovely.

Good henna designs always make the hand more attractive.




All henna tattoo is by Ann George of Spirit Vision Henna - photos are taken by Ann George & are protected by copyright.

Here are a few more images from the same spa day.

Please notice that while all are henna tattoo designs for the back of the hand, each is different, and compliments the style of each woman.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Bridal Henna Tattoo for the Back of the Hand.

Here is a photo of a traditional henna tattoo pattern for the back of the hand.  The fine lines and full pattern are typical of a traditional henna tattoo pattern from India.

Many customers also order this as a "bridal" henna pattern, although this tattoo does not go all the way to the elbow as is the custom for many brides.

I used  henna paste made with finely ground Jamila henna powder, the 2009 crop, which made the paste flow easily from the hand rolled cone.  This year's crop of Jamila henna is wondefully "gummy" and make a very workable paste.

I have learned to make a more liquid paste and to roll a more narrow henna cone to give better control over the flow of the henna.

I think this pattern took about 20 minutes from start to finish. A glaze of lemon sugar was applied to help give good color, and to keep the paste on the skin as long as possible.

Spirit Vision Henna is still offering henna tattoo on Saturday afternoons at The Midnight Sun, 1055 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204. Be sure to stop by to sell all the new products just in !! The container is cleared customs!

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Working with Henna - Aftercare Tips


As you can see, a good henna paste will stay on the skin even while working! This henna paste has been sprayed once with a lemon sugar glaze... but more importantly, the client knows that the longer she leaves the paste undisturbed on her skin, the darker the finished color will be.

As the weather turns cooler, we are coming to the end of every Saturday henna tattoo at The Midnight Sun. Please call the studio - (904) 993-7466 - to see if henna will be offered on a Saturday, or to get more information about scheduling a henna party. Hiring a henna tattoo artist for your party, event, or fundraising effort assures your guests of a unique, relaxing and artistic evening.

Namaste!

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Henna Tattoo Design for the Back of the Hand.

henna tattoo designsHere is a photo of a quick henna pattern for the back of the hand.

While the darkest color is achieved when applying henna tattoo to the palm, most customers find it very difficult to go about daily activities with a henna tattoo on the palm of the hand. As well.. it is easy show off your new design!

Surprisingly, we seldom show our palms to the public. This photo is a picture of henna paste on the skin & NOT black henna. This paste will remain on the skin for several hours and once scraped off, will leave a stain that darkens over the next 48 hours. The better care you take of your henna, the longer the tattoo will last.

For more info on henna tattoo aftercare, please see the FAQ page.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Traditional Henna - Freehand Henna Tattoo

I was so lucky to do this henna Saturday afternoon. The paste was fast & liquid.. my client, a goddess of henna!

This pattern was completed in half an hour. The freedom of Chef's Choice and a traditional order makes it so easy to create a henna design that fits the client, the budget & the esthetics of the art form!

As it is getting "late" in the henna season.. please call Ann to schedule a tattoo.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Learn Henna Tattoo - Sunday September 20th - Five Points


Learn Henna Tattoo at Bead Here Now
Sunday, September 20, 2009 from 1:00 until 3:00 PM

Henna artist Ann George will offer a complete introduction to Henna Tattoo. Please come prepared with a note pad, wear comfortable clothing and bring all your henna questions!

The workshop will cover:

How to select good henna powder - and why some henna pastes don't work!
How to make a simple workable paste good for all ages;
How to make a traditional paste with essentials oils for the deep, rich color;
How to tell when your paste is ready to use;
How to roll a henna cone;
How to fill a henna cone;
Answers to basic henna questions - what color? how long does it last? where can I put it?;
You will receive your own copy of a professional henna consent form that answers many FAQ.

Please pre-register as you will also receive a cone of fresh henna paste to take home with you.
The course fee is $30 for the two hour workshop located at 1051 Park Street in the Historic Five Points district of Jacksonville, Florida. For more information you can call Bead Here Now at 904-475-0004 or contact Ann George at 904-993-7466.

You will learn the basic components of henna designs, and how to draw them.
How to decode some of those complex patterns you see in booklets from India!
Jamila Henna and a unique blend of Henna Tea will be available for sale to workshop participants.

For more information about Ann George and the body art of Henna Tattoo, please be sure to visit her site - Spirit Vision Henna
Please contact Bead Here Now with any questions you have about workshop registration.

Monday, September 14, 2009

Quick Henna Tattoo - Henna Patterns

hennaThis graceful design is a perfect compliment to the jewelry & mala my henna clients was wearing.

The pattern is simple, but elegant.. easy to keep an eye on, and easy to work with throughout the day.

This is a sample of the $15 chef's choice henna tattoo available in Five Points at The Midnight Sun. Henna tattoo will be available through the fall on Saturday afternoons.

Please contact Spirit Vision Henna for more information.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Henna Tattoo Today - Enjoy Body Art in Air Conditioned Comfort!

Stop by the shop! Great music.. wonderful people.. and of course, fresh henna paste for your henna tattoo.

Lots of pattern books!

Henna from Noonish 'til 5PM.

Designs start at $15 and go up from there.

FMI see the FAQ

Friday, September 11, 2009

Henna Tattoo in Jacksonville, Florida - Henna this Saturday afternoon

traditional henna pattern henna tattoo for back of handHere is another henna pattern for the back of the hand. This design was easy to do using jamila henna powder, which makes a fine, smooth henna paste with very little fuss... no extra sifting or grinding involved at all.

This pattern was modified a bit to show off a lovely ring, and as always to flatter and to fit the young woman's hand. Applying henna to the back of the hand is often an excellent choice for a busy day of shopping, as one can keep an eye on the pattern quite easily.

Of course, henna always gives the darkest color on the palm of the hand. People are often surprised to hear this, however, henna is a heat activated body dye, and the palm of the hand is often one of the warmest parts of the body. As well, we have more pores in the palm, making it that much easier for the henna to penetrate the skin. If one is careful, and applies a light coat of olive oil before getting the finished henna tattoo in water, the design will last much longer.

If you would like to see more henna patters, or to purchase a little book of traditional henna designs - $4.50 a booklet with FREE shipping by mail in the USA, please visit my site.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Traditional Henna Pattern for Sonya

henna pattern henna design traditionalMany thanks to Sonya for ordering a traditional henna pattern. This design is one of many from the little henna pattern books imported from India.

Mixing a very fluid paste helps make this kind of fine line henna tattoo possible. I used a henna cone made of florist wrap, not quite mylar... but a shear & flexible cellophane type material. I cut just a bit off the tip of the cone, and the began the pattern at the wrist.

I used the 2009 Jamila henna powder, so it was easy to make a very fine paste. As well, this year's crop is extra wonderful in that it is very gummy all on it's own. The addition of henna tea made with fenugreek seeds also helps to create a cohesive paste that flows smoothly onto the skin.

If you would like a henna tattoo like this one, please feel welcome to stop by The Midnight Sun on Saturday, 9.12.09 sometime after Noon. Simple henna tattoo designs are $15. A full back hand henna like this one can cost $25 to $30. For more information about henna tattoo.. visit the FAQ page on my site.

*Please note: This is a photo of henna paste ON the skin. I do not offer black henna. Once this paste has remained on the skin long enough ( 3 -6 hours) to give a good stain, you scrape the black paste off to reveal the henna color ( light orange to dark reddish brown) which will develop over the next 48 hours.

The quality of your finished henna tattoo depends in part on how well you take care of your design.

Friday, August 21, 2009

2009 Jamila Henna - Henna Tattoo This Saturday

Thanks to all who came for the Henna Tattoo Workshop at Bead Here Now. We had a wonderful time, and new artists discovered hidden talents! We also discovered that the 2009 summer crop of Jamila Henna gives a great deep stain very, very quickly.

This summer's crop is one of the best for a deep rich stain. Ann George will be at the Midnight Sun this Saturday, August 21. 2009, offering henna tattoo in the afternoon. Some clients have already reserved appointments from 3:00 PM until 3:30 PM so you might want to call ahead to schedule a time to get your henna tattoo this Saturday.

If this is your first henna tattoo experience, please visit the FAQ section on line at Spirit Vision Henna. If you are an artist and want a good price on super fresh Jamila Henna in the 100 gram box.. with FREE SHIPPING in the USA.. visit the Henna Powder page.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Learn Henna Tattoo - Class August 16th at Bead Here Now


Learn Henna Tattoo at Bead Here Now
Sunday August 16, 2009 from 1:00 until 3:00 PM

Henna artist Ann George will offer a complete introduction to the temporary body art of Mehandi, known in the West as Henna Tattoo. Please come prepared with a note pad, wear comfortable clothing and bring all your henna questions!

The workshop will cover:

How to select good henna powder - and why some henna pastes don't work!
How to make a simple workable paste good for all ages;
How to make a traditional paste with essentials oils for the deep, rich color;
How to tell when your paste is ready to use;
How to roll a henna cone;
How to fill a henna cone;
Answers to basic henna questions - what color? how long does it last? where can I put it?;
You will receive your own copy of a professional henna consent form that answers many FAQ.

Please pre-register as you will also receive a cone of fresh henna paste to take home with you.
The course fee is $30 for the two hour workshop located at 1051 Park Street in the Historic Five Points district of Jacksonville, Florida. For more information you can call Bead Here Now at 904-475-0004 or contact Ann George at 904-993-7466.

You will learn the basic components of henna designs, and how to draw them.
How to decode some of those complex patterns you see in booklets from India!
Jamila Henna and a unique blend of Henna Tea will be available for sale to workshop participants.

For more information about Ann George and the body art of Henna Tattoo, please be sure to visit her site - Spirit Vision Henna
Please contact Bead Here Now with any questions you have about workshop registration.

Saturday, August 08, 2009

Ooops... no henna tattoo this Saturday - August 8, 2009

Due to a fabulous move in process, Ann George will not be offering henna tattoo today!
However, personal henna tattoo returns on August 15th.. and.. the Learn To Henna Tattoo Workhop will be offered on Sunday, August 16th at Bead Here Now!

So.. if you have always wanted to learn the lovely body art of Mehandi ( henna tattoo ) visit Bead Here Now
to register... seating is limited.. and check back here for a full course description soon.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Henna Pattern for Back of Hand - $15 Henna

henna tattoo jacksonville floridaHere are three little henna tattoos for the back of the hand. Each girl chose a pattern style from one of the many pattern books on hand.. and then said "something like this"... the best way to ensure that you get a henna tattoo that fits your budget & your style.

Henna tattoos start at $15 each and go up in price from there. So.. it is important to give a bit of thought to where to put your tattoo, as well, what to wear to show it off, particularly if you are getting henna on the foot, belly or lower back! There are lots of tips in the blog to help you pick a good pattern!

Spirit Vision Henna is open most Saturdays at 1055 Park Street ( The Midnight Sun ) in Jacksonville, Florida. We are also available for parties, bridal showers, birthdays and corporate events in the greater Jacksonville area. Please feel welcome to give us a call. We have plenty of the 2009 crop of Jamila henna powder, so you are sure to get fine lines & great color.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Simple Henna Tattoo for the Feet

foot tattoo henna toesWhen coming for a henna tattoo on the foot, please be sure to wear sandals that leave enough room to fit the kind of tattoo you want.

This photo is a good example of a sandal that leaves enough room to place a small henna tattoo that flatters the foot as well as the toes.

Luckily, the little peacock design also is flattering to the golden sandal my client chose to wear. When getting a tattoo on the foot, it is important to leave the sandal on, so that I am sure not to draw your design too close to the shoe.. that way the henna will not rub off with wear.

If you want a tattoo that covers more of the top of the foot, then a little slide on shoe, or mule might be a better choice. This henna tattoo cost $15 dollars and took about 15 minutes from start to dry time. Stop by The Midnight Sun this Saturday between 11:00 Am & 5:00 PM for your henna tattoo. We will be leaving early this Saturday!

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

2009 Jamila Henna Powder - shopping cart fixed

The shopping cart button on my site is now repaired to show that you are purchasing the 2009 Harvest of Jamila henna when you click the button. The correct price of $8.75 per 100 gram box also shows correctly now. The shipping is still free by First Class Mail in the USA.

Also, the Henna Tea packet shopping cart button is repaired and there is a fresh supply on hand should you choose to order a packet. The tea comes with a recipe for both tea & paste.

Thanks so much to my new customer for pointing this out!

Namaste

Monday, July 13, 2009

Henna Tattoo Design for the Back of the Hand.

henna tattoo pattern hand designThis is an example of the kinds of henna tattoo you can order at The Midnight Sun, 1055 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida, 32204. Artists are almost always available on Saturdays, and appointments are helpful.

The is a "chef's choice" style, which means the customer decides how much she want to spend, and the style of henna she likes. The henna artist then creates a unique pattern, base on traditional designs, to fit your taste & your budget.

This particular henna cost $20 and was drawn to include the clients jewelry in the pattern. You can see that there is a good bit of negative space in the design, which I think makes it visually very attractive.

This pattern was also drawn with the wetter paste, so the henna did take a bit longer to dry on the skin. We used 2009 Jamila Henna, fresh off the plane for this tattoo. We'll see if we get a photo of the finished color.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Henna Pattern for Back of Hand

henna tattoo back hand patternHere is a photo of a traditional henna tattoo design taken from a book of patterns I bought about 5 years ago. My client really like the stupa decoration at the wrist, as well as the full hand pattern and intricate design.

This pattern took about 35 minutes to apply. The henna paste I am using this year is a bit wetter than pastes I have used in the past, so the henna flows freely from the cone and takes a bit longer to dry. This slower dry time results in a better finished color, although it does require that you are careful with your tattoo about 15 minutes longer than last year's paste.

Thursday, July 09, 2009

2009 Harvest of Jamila Henna Powder is Here

2009 Jamila Henna PowderThe 2009 Harvest of Jamila Henna powder arrived yesterday! Just click the link to purchase your fresh off the plane box of super sift henna.

I have 100 gram boxes for sale, $8.75 each with free shipping by Mail in the USA. If you live outside the US, please send a note to get an updated shipping total.

Some artists buy several boxes when the henna is fresh, leave one out for daily use & freeze the rest for later. The henna comes in a sealed foil pouch in a lovely box, film wrapped, so every measure is taken to be sure you get the freshest henna possible.

If you are new to henna tattoo, a free recipe is posted on my site, and of course there are lots of henna tips & tricks on the blog.
Wishing you joy!!

Ann George

Wednesday, July 08, 2009

Full Palm Henna Tattoo - paste on & paste off

henna tattoo full palm paste onThis is a photo on an original henna tattoo design for the full palm. The pattern started and the wrist and was worked down onto the palm and finally the fingers.

This henna tattoo was done with a fairly wet paste, so there was plenty of time for the henna to be absorbed into the skin. This wet paste yielded a good finished color as you will see below.


Here is a photo of the henna tattoo with the paste off the skin. As you can see (click the photo for a larger view) the henna stains different parts of the hand different shades of red to reddish brown.
24 hours later henna tattoo colorThis henna paste has only been off the skin for 24 hours, so it will take another 24 hours for the final color to show up.

Many people want to know how long a henna tattoo will last. Spirit Vision Henna uses fine, natural ingredients with no chemical additives. The paste is made to give the darkest color possible, but aftercare is really important to getting a long lasting stain.

If you will leave the paste on the skin (first photo) for at least 6 hours, and if you will keep olive oil on the design (apply at least twice a day) and you are able to stay out of water for at least 12 hours after the paste is off the skin, then you will get the best color.

The FAQ page will address many common questions about henna tattoo. Of course, you are also welcome to call or email for more information.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Simple Henna Jewel - Intricate Pattern

henna peacock tattooHere is a tiny little peacock tattoo for the back of the hand.

Although the photo may be a bit fuzzy, it is an excellent image to illustrate the fine lines possible with Jamila Henna Powder and a hand rolled henna cone.

It took about five minutes to complete this little peacock tattoo. The pattern is from the Sangeet pattern book already mentioned in previous posts.

For a good selection of Henna Pattern Booklets, please visit my little import store to see all the kinds of authentic henna booklets from India I have for sale.

Henna Tattoo Design for the Back of the Hand.

henna pattern for back of handThis photo is an example of a custom, or "chef's choice" henna tattoo.

As you can see, Margaret is wearing a beautiful ring, which is quite large. As henna tattoo is an adornment, and used to make a woman's hand look even more beautiful, a free hand henna tattoo was created to compliment this turquoise stone.

This tattoo took about 10 minutes to complete. I used Jamila henna powder, which is always shipped fresh & finely sifted, and hand rolled cone to give the fine lines you see in this tattoo.

You might also notice the shading used on the flower at the wrist. Two coats of lemon/sugar glaze were applied to help the paste stick to the skin as long as possible, thus providing a deep, rich color.

This kind of quick tattoo costs $20 to apply. You will receive a consent form and aftercare instructions with every tattoo, every time. The henna paste is made fresh, contains only natural ingredients & gentle essential oils. Many people report that the experience of henna is just as lovely as the tattoo they receive.

Stop by The Midnight Sun on a Saturday for your henna moment. Subscribe to this blog for updates, new images, tips and tricks for beautiful mehandi every time.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Tank Tops & Henna Tattoos - Good Summer Fun

floral henna tattoo from Sangeet pattern bookHere is a lovely henna tattoo for the back. This henna design is adapted from the Sangeet Pattern Book by Neeta Sharma.

This is far and away the most popular book of henna designs I have on hand. Her designs are eye catching, traditional, and many are little henna jewels that go anywhere.

This henna tattoo is one example of her art. I like the design because it adapts so easily to the shoulder. Please know that henna does not stain the skin on the shoulder, neck or back the same deep rich color that you see on the palms of the hands. Some clients leave the henna paste on long enough, and stay warm enough to get a rich color on the back,

For more information about henna tattoo and henna parties please visit: Spirit Vision Henna.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Henna for Summer Sandals!

henna tattoo on the toesStop by this Saturday, relax and enjoy the cool, air conditioned ambience of The Midnight Sun after a day of shopping for just a touch of henna tattoo! This photo shows how a bit of mehandi can really create a dramatic look when properly applied.

This client wore a lovely golden sandal to The Midnight Sun, and had only a few moments to spend getting henna. Her pattern took no more than 10 minutes from start to finish.. including the lemon sugar glaze I use to ensure that your henna tattoo stays in place.

Most henna tattoos start at $15 and go up from there. Spirit Vision Henna uses fresh henna paste, carefully prepared to be safe for all ages, and of course to give a deep, lasting stain. For more information on when, where and how to get a good henna outcome, please visit the FAQ page.

Tuesday, June 09, 2009

Simple Henna Pattern - Design for the Back of the Hand.

henna design for the back of the handHere is a photo of Shannon's henna from the First Friday party.

The pattern was built to accommodate her rings & bracelets, and the busy night ahead. The design was done in little sections as she was busy waiting on shoppers - answering questions & of course selling lots of wonderful beads!!

We are hoping to see you First Friday in July for a bit of body art... or most any Saturday at 1055 Park Street, The MIdnight Sun.

Call (904) 993-7466 for more information about henna tattoo in Jacksonville, Florida. Or visit Spirit Vision Henna.

Wednesday, June 03, 2009

Henna Tattoo at Bead Here Now - First Friday in Five Points

Spirit Vision Henna is offering a special on palm patterns for the First Friday party at Bead Here Now. Take the plunge, and put henna where henna loves to be, on the palm of the hand.

Henna gives the deepest, darkest, finished color on the palm of the hand. Why? Because henna is a heat activated body dye that works by penetrating the skin.
The palm is fleshy, has lots of tiny pores to absorb the henna stain, and palms are usually warm.

The First Friday Special is a custom henna pattern - a "Chef's Choice" - to give you the full palm henna experience using bold strokes, lots of negative space, and the elements you prefer. If you are feeling floral, tribal, traditional or even whimsical, henna artist Ann George will design a pattern just for you, $25 for a simple full palm henna.

Here is a photo of the great red color you can get from good paste and a quick design on the palm. Stop by Bead Here Now after 6:00 PM to get your special.

Monday, June 01, 2009

Saris & Salwar Kameez from Exotic India

I love this shop! I hope you do as well. Namaste!

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Henna Tattoo - Back & Shoulder Henna Pattern

The goddess of henna muses came by for a back piece yesterday. In the spirit of all great patrons of artists everywhere, Miss Nancy gave me a general description of what she wanted in general and the complete freedom to henna as I pleased.

We talked about styles & energy.. paisley and peacocks, and the wonderful ideas of someday doing full body henna. I hope to create a unique design/ pattern/ moment of art in the near future.

However, as we were in a shop window, we opted for a henna pattern for her upper back. The first photos is of her henna design seen from the back. I was very happy to be able to use negative space in this design, as well as the "drops" effect to enhance the natural beauty of her neck & shoulders.

henna pattern, henna tattoo designThe pattern began on her right shoulder, moving across the upper back and then down the left arm. At some point, we thought to try for the half sleeve tattoo effect that is so popular for ink...
but this pattern flowed so well, and "dripped" into a graceful modern tribal sort of style that she likes & wears so well, that we opted to let the henna end as you see it here.

If you are interested in this type of henna tattoo, it is critical that you wear an outfit that will accommodate the paste. For those new to henna, please visit the FAQ page of my site for answers to most of the frequently asked questions.

It can take anywhere from ten minutes to apply a simple henna tattoo, and up to 45 minutes for a more complex henna pattern. If you are in a hurry, please add about five or six minutes of drying time to your schedule, as it is best to sit and allow the paste to dry a bit on the skin before you return to shopping at The Midnight Sun.

Henna paste is applied to the skin to stain the skin... and the longer the henna stays on the skin, the longer the natural vegetable dye can interact with the skin, creating a darker stain when the final color is revealed. Therefore, wearing clothing that will allow the paste to rest undisturbed on the skin is necessary for an successful finished pattern.

Now that it is indeed henna season, it is best to call ahead and make an appointment for a complex henna design!

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Full Palm Henna Tattoo

henna pattern quick palm henna patternHere is a quick pattern for a full palm henna tattoo with a floral feel.

My customer wanted a traditional henna look without bridal pricing... which is when the use of negative space makes a henna tattoo come alive, seem very full & traditional, without requiring more than 15 minutes or so.

This pattern starts at the wrist & then uses two double paisley patterns to contain the bulk of the design. Henna rings were used on the fingers, with little ring jewels on the tips.

Henna will naturally flake off over time, and of course with movement, so the rings were placed between the finger joints. Placing the henna paste away from the joints of the fingers made this an easy to wear henna pattern for a busy shopping day. The henna tattoo was sprayed several times with a a lemon sugar glaze to help it stay in place.

full palm henna tattoo with peacock As it is now henna season, it's best to call ahead to schedule your henna tattoo at The Midnight Sun. Visit Spirit Vision Henna for more information. This month's special is one full palm tattoo, similar to the one you see here, for $25.00. If you want both palms done, then it is best to have a driver.. or to choose a pattern similar to this second pattern.

This client had to drive for the little party that stopped by the shop. As you can see the henna design makes use of "negative space" to enhance the peacock pattern and to leave plenty of room to handle the steering wheel while driving a stick shift car.

If you have another style of henna tattoo in mind, no worries. There are lots of pattern books to look through, however the special pricing is for "Chef's Choice" henna. This means that your artist will create a custom design based on your preference for tribal, floral, Arabic or Indian styles.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Jamila Henna - finished color after 18 hours

finished color - red henna tattooHere is a photo of the almost finished color of the henna tattoo pattern from 5/21/09. To get this deep red color on the palm Cat let the henna paste wear off naturally. As several coatings of lemon sugar glaze were applied, this took awhile. Also, she did not wash the tattoo for at least 12 hours after the henna paste was applied.

You will notice that the darkest color is on the palm of the hand, and that the henna becomes lighter as the pattern moves up the arm. This change in color is due to the change in the skin. The skin on the palm is usually more fleshy, and of course more porous than the thinner skin of the inner arm.

This pattern took about 45 minutes to complete. The paste was made using the 2008 crop of Jamila Henna Powder. I have about a dozen boxes left for sale, and then it's time to wait for the next harvest! Please visit my site if you would like to have a 100 gram box of this excellent henna powder on the way to you while supplies left.

Need a bit of inspiration? I have a good selection of henna pattern booklets from India. You might add one to your henna powder order? The shipping is free.

With best wishes,

Ann George

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Bridal Henna - Free Hand Design

One of the great joys of the web is that it enables me to see the great skills of other mehndi artists.

This photo is inspired by the work of the fine artist at Hasina Mehnd. AFter seeing one of her more recent henna designs, I knew I had to work a bit harder to be able to offer my customers the best of traditional henna.

I was lucky to have a willing volunteer, and about an hour of to do this design. The design went along rather quickly until I got to the middle of the palm of the hand. This is traditional henna, and I hope to be able to offer more photos, more often.

If you would like to have a henna like this, it is best to make an appointment. This kind of henna takes a plenty of paste, space & free time.

I hope you will be inspired to enjoy this lovely body art.

Ann George
Spirit Vision Henna Tattoo

Monday, May 18, 2009

Wedding Henna - Full Palms Bridal Henna Tattoo

wedding henna tattoo full palms
It is always an honor to be included in wedding day celebrations. I am pleased to publish a photo of the brides henna tattoo.
She choose to include several spiritual symbols in her henna, and from those images, the henna pattern unfolded in that energy. Here you see the photo of both palms, with the henna paste on the skin.

Please feel welcome to contact the artists of Spirit Vision Henna for your wedding, celebration, gathering.. or just for a "girls night out". We have a large collection of pattern books, as well, Ann George is an accomplished free hand artist.

Friday, May 15, 2009

Full Palm Henna Tattoo

full palm henna tattoo © ann george studios, incGreetings & best wishes to all!

This is a quick post to let you know that this Satuday, May 16, 2009, the artists of Spirit Vision Henna will be out of town for a wedding party. We will not be at The Midnight Sun.

We will however be back again on Saturday, May 23, 2009. Please feel welcome to call to schedule a henna appointment for next Saturday, or if you prefer, stop by the shop between 11:30 AM and 5:15 PM for your mehandi.

We use only freshly prepared henna paste - our own recipe! - to ensure deep lasting color. For more information about getting your first henna tattoo, please visit the FAQ page.

Tuesday, May 05, 2009

Before & After Henna Tattoo Photos

custom henna tattoo for the feet paste oneThis first photo show the first part of the henna tattoo process after the paste has been applied to the skin.

This tattoo was done rather late at night, so the modl left the henna paste on her skin, wearing white cotton socks to bed so that she could get the darkest stain possible.

For good color, that being deep rich color, the longer the paste can interact with the skin, the darker the finished color should be.


henna tattoo after past is removed 8 hours laterIn this photo you are able to see the beginning color of a henna tattoo after the paste is removed. As you can see, the henna paste left on the skin for a period of hours leave a bright orange stain on the tops of the feet.

This bright color will darken over the next 48 hours to a deeper color, providing that some aftercare is taken. In general, it is best to apply olive oil over the finished henna twice a day or more. It is very important to do this before bathing.

Other tips to help your color develop are to keep the tattoo warm ( some clients use a blow dryer to heat up the skin after the paste is removed to deepen the color, ) avoid chlorinated water & especially avoid skin products that contain petroleum ( this includes most all American skin lotions & creams.)

The text & photos on this blog are copyrighted by Ann George Studios, Inc and the artists of Spirit Vision Henna. They may not be used without permission.

Namaste

Sunday, May 03, 2009

Arm Jewelry - a henna tattoo pattern for the inner arm

henna tattoo pattern for the inner armHere is a henna tattoo pattern for the inner arm. It is a free hand design which took about ten minutes from start to finish. The pattern flows with the muscle structure of the client, as well ... the energy flow of this particular goddess who was just open to what ever art seemed right for the day.

One of the blessings of doing henna in Five Points is that more & more clients are choosing henna as living art - thus art for art's sake, or as a means of self-expression. Sometimes just as a treat, a bit of pampering that takes one on the evolutionary journey of Mehandi, or henna tattoo.

If you have never had henna before, then you see in this photo what appears to be a black tattoo. What you are really seeing is a photo of henna paste still on the skin. Under the paste, the henna mixture is interacting with the skin. Henna is a heat activated body dye that penetrates the skin.

The hotter the skin is, the more the pores open, and the deeper the final color. Also, in warm weather, we may sweat a bit, and this helps to keep the paste moist on the skin. When the paste is moist, it can easily stain the skin. This is why lemon sugar is applied after the paste is a bit dry... to keep it moist & active. Also, the sugar in the glaze helps keep the henna from falling off the skin.

At present, henna tattoo is offer only on Saturdays on a walk-in basis at 1055 Park Street, The Midnight Sun, in Five Points, Riverside, Jacksonville, Florida. Please feel welcome to call (904) 993-7466 for more information.

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Gilding - temporary body art for children and adults.

gilding - temporary body artHere is a photo of gilding using turquoise, white and green glitter gel to match a little girls dress. Tubes of glitter gel are usually available at the henna table at The Midnight Sun so that children can enjoy the henna experience for a day... without any worries about smudging the pattern or staining their clothes.

In this example, the design is a traditional flower pattern. The colors used in this temporary body paint make the simple pattern shine. For those new to henna tattoo, please note this is not a photo of a henna tattoo. Henna tattoo is not available in colors... however, it can also be gilded.

To see samples of gilded henna tattoo, visit The Gilded Henna Tattoo page on my website.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Henna Tattoo Design for the Back of the Hand.

henna pattern henna design for the back of the handIt is always lovely to be able to create a henna design that compliments the natural beauty of each client.

As you can see, LuAnn is wearing a very lovely ring, and her henna pattern was created to both compliment her hand and to draw attention to her jewelry.

Using a hand rolled henna cone, a very find\e henna powder ( Jamila Henna ) and a smooth, rich henna paste made with essential oils, a bit of lemon juice and my own blend of "henna tea" it was easy to quickly create this traditional henna pattern.

If you are just learning to henna, please be sure to experiment with your paste. When I first started to make henna paste, I made a much thicker paste than I do now. Adding a bit of fenugreek to the henna tea really helps to make a cohesive paste. As well, fresh henna makes a lovely "gummy" paste.

The 2008 Jamila henna harvest is a super fine henna powder that gives a great color.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Quick Henna Jewel for Everyday Wear

henna jewel for the wristHere is a lovely example of a traditional henna pattern that works well for everyday wear in Western culture. The pattern is from the "Sangeet" pattern book.

This quick henna took about 10 minutes from start to finish, and fit perfectly on the wrist. It is a "tiny" tattoo, but a lovely example of the traditional art.

I am using a "wetter" paste this year, which means that the henna flows very quickly from the cone and is easier to work with. The wetter paste does take a bit longer to dry on the skin, so you may need to wait a bit longer for the henna to dry.

However, this extended drying time helps you get darker color in your finished henna tattoo. Stop by the Midnight Sun, 1055 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida on Saturdays to get your henna art. Remember if you want to have henna on the lower back or belly, wear hip huggers & a crop top.

For tattoo on the feet, wear the tiniest sandals possible! More skin = more color.

Friday, April 03, 2009

Henna Tattoo at The Midnight Sun

henna tattoo design for the armThis Saturday, April 4th from Noon 'till Five you can get a henna tattoo from the artists of Spirit Vision Henna. We hope you will stop by to see us at the Midnight Sun at 1055 Park Street.
You are welcome to browse the many pattern books of traditional, tribal and original henna tattoo patterns to find the one you want. Prices start at $15 and go up from there. (Of course tiny designs & art for children start at $10 each.) Please be sure to take a moment to visit the Henna FAQ page to get answers to the most frequently asked questions.
If you are feeling adventurous, just you may choose the "Chef's Choice" style which is featured on this post. Chef's Choice henna means you let us know the style you like & the price you want to pay... and.. see what happens.

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Oops - no henna this Saturday - 3/27/09

modern henna tattoo for back of the handhenna palm tattoo
Greetings & best wishes,

I will not be offering henna at the Midnight Sun today. However, I will post a few tempting fotos from last weekends henna time.
Maybe you will give me a call to schedule something for Saturday 4/4/09?

Namaste,

Ann George

Sunday, March 08, 2009

Full Palm Henna Tattoo - First of the Season

henna tattoo full palm jamila henna tattooJamila henna makes such a fine, smooth paste that it only takes a few moments to create a lovely complex design like the one in this photo.

I am always happy to start the season with customers who really want the full henna experience, the intricate pattern, cooling paste, relaxing atmosphere and ambient music.

I enjoyed meeting a new friend - a charming Pisces man - who ordered this pattern. (yes - men get henna!).
I thank Phillip so much for sharing time & space with me. As henna season is off to a very good start, you might want to call to schedule your appointment on Saturday.

For more information, just click the title of this post.

Saturday, March 07, 2009

Henna Season At The Midnight Sun - Appointments Welcome

henna tattoo  on back of hand henna patternHenna Season starts today at The Midnight Sun. Spirit Vision Henna will offer henna tattoo from Noon 'til 5:00m today.. Saturday 3/7/09.

There are lots of pattern books to look through, or you may order a chef's choice henna like the one pictured on the left. Chef's choice makes it easy to get a design you like at price you can afford.

Simple patterns start at $15.00 this year. If you just want some tiny little jewel tattoo, also fine. Those are $10 and take under 5 minutes.

Please visit the FAQ page for quick answer to all those first henna questions such as l where can I put a henna tattoo, how long does it last, what colors does it come in.

You will receive aftercare instructions as well so that you get the best color possible. Walk-in clients are welcome!

Friday, March 06, 2009

First Henna at First Friday in Five Points

Henna Tattoo this afternoon & evening in Five Points!

Stop by Bead Here Now and get your first henna tattoo of the season.
Spirit Vision Henna will set up as early as 4:00 PM.... so you don't have to wait for the big party to start. Our little one will be in process.


The freehand tattoo at the left was a 30 minute chef's choice special. Want one??
Henna is on sale tonight.

Stop by for to see Ann George's portfolio.. and order your henna!