One quick note: I mix my own Henna paste, but you can easily buy premade ones. I just find that I really like to make sure I know what is in it and it typically has a longer lasting effect.
Do not forget to get parent/guardian consent forms for this one and the bonus is that you will also have a headcount so you know how much to make. This is just always a good idea before you plan on applying things to bodies. (Also, if you are doing it doing the school year it might be good to check in on any school policies regarding body art.)
Sample Permission Form
For this program you need:
Henna Powder (I use Henna Caravan for mine. Good prices and quick shipping.)
Lavender Oil (Essential Oils, Therapeutic Grade-you can use other oils, but I recall that this is the safest for children)
Sugar
Lemon Juice
Small Bowl
Measuring Cups/Spoons
Spoon
Plastic Wrap
Applicator Cones or Bottles (I buy sheets off Henna Caravan too and just hand roll my own)
You must start the mixing process at least 24 hours before you plan on hosting your program.
In your bowl, pour 20 grams of henna into your bowl, 1/4 c. lemon juice and 1.5 tsp lavender oil.
Mix until smooth (and make sure your powder is fully mixed).
Cover with plastic wrap (or a plastic baggie) and press down (gently) so it is touching the top of the henna paste. You don't want any air.
Stick it some place toasty warm for a full day. Around 75 degrees works good-don't go too hot!
After 24 hours, stir.
Thin it out-add 1/4 tsp of lemon juice
Thicken-add a smidgen of powder
Now fill your bottles or cones. I only do a partial fill of my cones so everyone can have one. A little bit goes a very long way and very few will use up the amount you give them. [There are however those that will get a little doodle happy.]
Can stay frozen for up to a year if it has been done properly. Just defrost at room temp.
Now for the program itself.
Always do a small test dot for about 5 minutes before you start to test for allergies. [That being said, I did learn that allergies and irritations are not the same thing. If someone has just shaved their legs and applies it they can end up quite rosy. Be sure to forewarn your participants.]
During the wait time this would be a great time for an educational opportunity to talk about the history and cultural significance of henna. There are many, many resources to pull this information from and it is so insightful and fascinating.
At the program it is a good idea to have the following on hand:
Tracing Paper
Sample Designs
Charcoal
Clear Gel Deodorant
We use a variety of patterns that we have already cut apart. Check out Pixabay and search Henna for options:
From here they can take the design and use charcoal to trace it onto their tracing paper. Then apply a thin layer of deodorant to their skin and gently press the traced design onto it. The charcoal will stick to the skin, but not act as a barrier with the henna paste.
This is a good system for those of us you are really only good for making awesome stick figures.
Overall the program is fun and simple and not terribly expensive.
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