Henna by Holly - Natural Henna Artistry
This is the official website of internationally certified natural henna artist, Holly Monster (nee Pagnacco).
Henna by Holly is a home-based hobby/business located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Hennaed hand, inspired by a piece of tapestry, shown with the paste still on the skin (because henna is never black!)
Learn more about the dangers of "black henna" >
Latest News:
Updated September 9, 2009
Autumn Availability
Holly is unavailable to take on new work until further notice...
Looking for a natural henna artist? Contact Tarquin of Henna Planet, Tamara of Leuty Designs, or visit the Monster Mehndi and Hennapage websites.
Looking for henna powder and supplies? Larissa at AtlanticHenna.com will be more than happy to assist!
Holly is an Internationally Certified Natural Henna Artist:
Natural henna info for artists & enthusiasts
Short introduction to henna
Henna is a several-thousand year old art with diversified traditions throughout Southwest Asia, the Middle East and Northern Africa. Originally from Persia, the natural dye within the leaves of the henna plant (lawsonia inermis) was used by various cultures for traditions including birth, coming of age, marriage and death.
The henna plant itself is a hardy little shrub that thrives in hot, arid climates. The leaves are harvested once or twice a year, after the heavy rains, and left to dry completely. The leaves are then ground into a fine powder to preserve the dye within. Henna powder is mixed with a few ingredients, including lemon juice, to encourage the dye to release. Henna paste is then applied to the skin (staining it from 3 days to 5 weeks), hair, fingernails, natural fabrics (eg. cotton, silk) and leather.
Learn more >
Foot hennaed in a Mumbai-style pattern — note the orange stain. This will fully darken in 1-2 days. The stain will then last 1-3 weeks. Learn more about henna stains >