You’ll find rolls of cellophane and Mylar at most arts and crafts shops, as well as some office supply stores. Pre-cut sheets are also available from online retailers who specialize in henna accessories. The thicker the material you use, the better, as it will help the bag keep its shape once it’s been filled. [2] X Research source To make a larger cone, simply cut your initial square a bit bigger. You can also begin with a smaller square if you prefer a more compact cone with an ultra-fine stream of ink.
1 triangle will make 1 cone. You can either discard the second triangle or hold onto it and use it for your next henna cone. Some henna artists recommend leaving your material as a square or rectangle, claiming that the extra material provides additional support and helps prevent leaks. You’re welcome to try any of these methods to see which one works best for you. [5] X Research source
You can use whichever hand you prefer to pin down the soon-to-be tip of the cone while you shape the surrounding material. However, you may find it easier to do the actual rolling with your dominant hand. The basic rolling technique will be the same whether you’re working with a triangular, square, or rectangular sheet.
If you’re right-handed, start with the corner to the right of your finger. If you’re left-handed, start with the corner on the left side.
It may help to pick up your anchor finger after each twist just long enough to allow the material to roll without resistance. If your cone starts to lose its shape, calmly smooth out the square and start over. It’s more important to do it right than to do it quickly.
It’s better to end up with a tip that’s a little too narrow than one that’s a little too wide. One strategy that may be helpful is to roll the tip of the cone as tightly as possible, then snip off the excess material little by little until it’s exactly the size you need. [10] X Research source
Any variety of tape could work, but clear tape tends to be the most forgiving to work with, since it tears and smooths easily and can be peeled off and reapplied if you happen to make a mistake. If you like, you can also cover the seam on the inside of the cone with a second strip of tape to be doubly certain that it will hold.
Taping the tip separately will help ensure that it doesn’t split or come apart once you start squeezing the bag.
Henna stains very easily, so be sure to pull on a pair of rubber gloves before you begin handling your homemade henna paste. It may also be a good idea to cover your work surface with a layer of paper towels or newsprint. Always use natural henna powder to make your paste, which you can find online or at an ethnic store. Be careful, as there are lots of artificial varieties out there. [14] X Expert Source Moushami IyerHenna Artist Expert Interview. 12 July 2021. Mix your henna powder with water and essential oils to form a paste. [15] X Expert Source Moushami IyerHenna Artist Expert Interview. 12 July 2021. Let your henna paste rest for 4-6 hours before you start using it. [16] X Expert Source Moushami IyerHenna Artist Expert Interview. 12 July 2021.
If you don’t have a rubber band, wrap a 2–3 in (5. 1–7. 6 cm) strip of tape around the top of the open end. Use additional tape as needed to cover any visible gaps or cracks. [19] X Research source
