I am going to embark on my very first mamma belly in a few weeks and want to practice on me first. Have only used henna on hair thus far but am intrigued with the body art. Searched Michaels store and online, Did find cellophane which I have read works fine, true? Could not find mylar but did find a product that comes in sheets called Dura-lar. Has anybody used this product? Or would you not/recommmend trying for first attempts?I like to buy things in person and see what I am purchasing. So, I don't do much on- line shopping. Where might I find mylar if Dura-lar is not recommended?Also, Does anyone run a biz strictly doing mommies? I am thinking far into the future. I will even be using friend's hennaed belly pics for my first portfolio references. Wish me luck!
I haven't heard of Dura-lar, but in my opinion, cellophane is easier to roll than mylar, so no sweat if all you can get is cellophane... you're good to go.
If you are looking to start a henna business, you may want to begin with areas and designs a little smaller than bellies (unless you are already an artist in other mediums, which makes the transition to working with henna much easier). By using the word "strictly", you may be talking yourself out of a lot of satisfying and possibly lucrative business, if after practicing you find you have a talent for henna as a body art. Henna yourself, your family and your friends and see where it takes you.
I haven't heard of dura lar either. I prefer 1 mil polypropelene/cello wrap (it comes in a couple of different thicknesses). I also like mylar tissue paper which you can buy at micheals in the gift wrap area.
I do work in my birth/pregnancy community, but also do festivals, bridal and other private appointments like henna for Eid or Diwali. For me, it's been better to diversify and be available to as many prospective clients as possible.
I consider henna body art done on a belly to be intermediate to advanced work. You may want to try something smaller, like the back of a hand or foot to start with.
Thank you! all response are so positive and inspiring and appreciated! I know, huh? Why would I set limitations if I have not evenstarted yet. HAHA! I would consider my self an artist and my sketches and ideas look good ,so far, on paper-
Just saw this now... and I bought some Dura-lar when burning some of my own stencils for airbrushing... it was sort of good for that purpose in a pinch, but I feared the fumes from using the stencil burner with it were probably carcinogenic or something...
It's much too stiff for rolling cones, though! That much I can say with confidence.
Since the thread is a bit old, I imagine by now you've probably rolled your first cone and have perhaps already given it a go? Share some photos if you get a chance :)
I agree that when brand-spankin' new to henna, you should be able to practice on which ever body part strikes your fancy... every body part, as often as you can. However, this doesn't necessarily apply if you plan on charging for your 'practice'. That doesn't make very good business sense.
I believe in starting small and charging small if you are serious about henna as a business. Getting the basics down pat and working up to medium/advanced work not only ensures confidence in the artist, but makes for much happier customers. You don't have to wait until your work is flawless to start charging for it, but people are much more forgiving in $5 increments. They are even more forgiving of 'less than perfect' henna if it was free or for tips. Beginner henna at beginner pricing is fair for all involved.
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