Karwa Chauth Mehndi: Hindu Culture

• Cut the freezer bag into squares. The size you make the cones is up to you, but do not make it too big or it will be hard to handle.
• Generally, the cones are made of 6″ squares. Use a straight edge to make sure your corners are 90 degrees, as it will help in actual folding of cone.
• Make a funnel shape out of the square. Do it very carefully as the plastic is very slippery and you will want to wrap the square around itself in such a way that it completely overlaps (leaving no open spaces for the paste to squeeze out).
• At the same time, leave a small hole at the bottom of the funnel, just large enough to allow the paste to squeeze out without difficulty. This might take some practice.
• After you get the funnel exactly how you want it to be, tape the side edges where the plastic overlaps. Be careful not to move the plastic when you do this, or you will have to start over again. It is better to keep a few small pieces of tape ready instead of trying to get it from the dispenser at this time. Now tape all the way from the bottom to the top of the funnel.

How To Apply Karwa Chauth Mehndi

• Make a smooth henna paste so that there is no debris and has a mud-like firmness.
• Now take a plastic cone, having a fine key-hole at the end and pour the paste into the cone. Tie the broader end with a rubber band.
• Gently squeeze the paste on the palm and start making patterns or designs that you like.
• After you have applied the design, keep the palm horizontal and let the patterned-paste rest on it till dry. In fact, leave it on for as long as it takes to acquire deep color.
• Dab a piece of cotton in sugar and lemon solution and apply lightly on the designs, so it further darkens to a reddish-brown hue that can last for weeks. Do it when it is almost dry.
• After 2-4 hours, remove the mehndi and apply mustard oil to it so that it becomes dark. Don’t wash your hands with water for at least 12 hours.