How to Create a Henna Design

Published July 2014
How to Create a Henna Design

I loved the Branches Recycled Maxi Skirt. The leafy design was gorgeous and reminded me of intricate mehndi henna patterns. Its flowing maxi length had me dreaming of barefoot summer days spent running through the grass and sand.

Woman wearing the Branches maxi skirt that inspired a leafy henna design
The Branches Maxi Skirt that inspired my henna design!

My sister loves henna and introduced me to it years ago. For this post, I asked her to share some of her knowledge and experience with henna design. Here are a few beginner-friendly tips she shared, along with photos showing how my skirt-inspired design came together. You may even notice a little Soul Flower logo worked into the pattern!

Planning a leafy henna design on paper before applying it to skin
Beginning a detailed henna design inspired by leaves and nature
Applying an intricate henna pattern to a hand

1. Begin with a design in mind

It can be easier for beginners to start with a sketch or reference image. Draw your own design, print one out, or look to books, artwork, clothing, and nature for inspiration. The leaves and flowing lines in Soul Flower artwork can be especially fun to reinterpret as henna patterns.

Carefully adding small details to a hand-drawn henna pattern

2. Choose a practical location

Henna paste needs time to sit and dry, so place your design somewhere that can remain relatively undisturbed. Applying it to the hand you use most may make everyday tasks a little challenging!

3. Allow the paste to dry naturally

Give the design plenty of time to dry without touching or smudging it. Follow the directions included with your henna product for application time and removal.

Fresh henna paste drying on a detailed hand design

4. Protect the finished design

Once the paste is ready to come off, gently remove it according to the product instructions. Avoid scrubbing the area right away so the design has time to deepen.

Finished leafy henna design inspired by Soul Flower artwork

That’s basically it! Thanks to my sister for sharing her tips and helping me create this nature-inspired design. I’d love to see what kinds of patterns everyone else comes up with!


Heather reviewed the discontinued Branches Recycled Maxi Skirt. Explore more flowing styles in our women’s hippie pants and bohemian skirts collection.


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