How do I apply henna tattoos? Caution: As with all cosmetics and body care products, test on an inconspicuous area of skin for allergic reaction. Allergies can develop at anytime, so re-test before every application.
Follow these steps for quick and easy henna tattoo application:
Gather henna, paper towels, a damp wash cloth & toothpicks (to remove mistakes), a straight pin (to remove any clogs in your cone or nozzle), and mehndi oil (optional).
Wash area well. Do not use a lotion based soap. Dish soap works great and a swipe of rubbing alcohol can help.
If your henna is not fresh mixed, mix henna thoroughly. Carefully knead cone or tube for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then make a VERY small cut at the tip of the cone or remove cap from henna tube. You can also squeeze the paste into a plastic baggie, knead it, and then squeeze it into an applicator bottle.
For cones, squeeze out about 1/4 inch of paste (this will get rid of any watery henna from the tip). For tubes, apply desired applicator tip.
Hold tip close to skin (or touch skin lightly) and slowly squeeze henna applicator, creating designs. Experiment with techniques. The thicker your lines, the darker the color. If you make a mistake, quickly wipe off henna with a damp cloth or paper towel or use a straight pin or toothpick to remove the mistake.
Allow henna to dry for at least 1 hour. One hour is bare minimum and will NOT give you good color. Ideally you should leave your henna on for 4 hours or more. The longer you leave the henna on your skin the darker and longer lasting your henna stain will be. You can also apply a henna sealer after the henna is set, but before it is dry. This will allow you to keep your henna on for hours (even overnight) to produce a much darker color.
Gently scrape off dried henna with your fingernail or a butter knife.
Optional-To deepen color and help design last longer, apply a thin layer of mehndi oil over design.
If you used easy pre-mixed henna, your design will last about 5-12 days, depending on how long you keep the moist henna in contact with your skin. With care, it can last 2-3 weeks.
If you used fresh mixed henna from henna powder, your design will last about 10-20 days without henna oil, depending on your henna recipe and how long you keep the moist henna in contact with your skin. With care, it can last 2-4 weeks.
Your henna tattoo stain will continue to darken over the next 24-48 hours.
How do I mix powdered henna? Henna is a very personal thing and what works great for one person may not work well for someone else. There is no right or wrong, and there are no exact measurements. Henna is like cooking. There are many ways to tweak a recipe to get better results and it takes time to find what you like best. Experiment with your henna recipe to find what works best for you.
Here are a couple of henna mixing recipes to get you started...
Beachcombers! Super Easy Basic Mix This mix leaves a good color and is super easy.
Mix powdered henna with lemon juice (bottled juice is fine) a little at a time until your paste is the consistency of baking soda toothpaste. Mix thoroughly to remove any lumps. It should be thin enough be able to be pushed through the opening of your applicator, but not so thin that it is runny.
Allow the mixed henna to sit in a warm place away from sunlight for a minimum of 4 hours or as long as overnight. This allows for the henna to release its dye. If you use the henna right away the henna dye will not be released and it will not leave a stain. Once the henna is ready, add more lemon juice or mehndi oil, if needed, for desired consistency and transfer henna to your chosen applicator. Your henna is now ready for use.
Beachcombers! Favorite Henna Recipe Easy Mix for Darker Color This mix leaves a nice dark color and has a wonderful texture making it easy to work with.
Mix, approximately, one part table sugar to about 4 parts henna powder. As an option you can warm the lemon juice on the stove. As an alternative, you can add the sugar into your lemon juice instead of directly to your henna powder if you are familiar enough with henna to know how much sugar you will need. This way you can also make a lemon sugar mixture to use as a sealant later. If you are new to henna, I suggest adding sugar directly to your henna so you you see the effects and control how much sugar is going into your henna mix.
Add the lemon juice (or lemon sugar mixture) to your powdered henna a little at a time. Mix thoroughly to remove any lumps. Your paste should be a bit thicker than you need to actually use, like thick mashed potatoes. Cover with plastic wrap, pushing the plastic wrap down so that it comes into direct contact with the henna paste, and allow the henna to sit in a warm place away from sunlight for 3-12 hours (I often just let it sit overnight). If you use the henna right away the henna dye will not be released and it will not leave a stain.
After the henna dye has been released, mix in *aromatherapy grade tea tree oil, lavender oil, or mehndi oil a few drops at a time until henna is the desired consistency. You may need to add a bit more lemon juice to get to the consistency you like. Let the mixed henna sit for at least an hour before transferring to your applicator for use.
Substitution Ideas
Lemon juice can be substituted for any slightly acidic liquid such as... Pomegranate Juice Grapefruit Juice Red Wine Vinegar Ginger Ale Tea or Coffee
Table sugar can be substituted with... Dextrose Fructose Corn syrup Honey
Mehndi oil & lavender oil can be substituted with other aromatherapy grade* oils or mixtures of oils, such as... Tea Tree Cajuput (great substitute for Eucalyptus oil which is not my favorite) Frankincense Geranium Rose Orange Walnut (rather harsh, be careful)
Tea tree oil helps bring out the best color, but doesn't smell as nice. If you want to use tea tree oil, I suggest mixing it with geranium or lavender oil.
*Aromatherapy grade oil is the highest quality in oils. Do not use cheap substitutes that may be mixed with chemicals. Poor quality oils can result in a poor henna stain and can be dangerous.
Keep any unused henna refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage put it in an airtight container and freeze it. Tips to make your design last longer.
For henna powder that you mixed: Put henna paste into one corner of a carrot bag or sandwich baggie and cut the tip. Squeeze henna into applicator bottle.
For instant henna paste from a tube: Apply longest applicator tip and squeeze henna into bottle.
Tap bottle often on a hard surface to settle henna and work out air bubbles as you fill. Be sure to fill the applicator bottle completely. If it is only partially filled it is more difficult to squeeze.
After-application sealer recipe for darkest color and extra long lasting design:
Mix together equal parts sugar and lemon juice. Your mixture should be rather thick. If it is too runny it will make your henna design run.
Before henna is completely dry, CAREFULLY apply mixture over top of the design (be sure you apply a thin layer, you don't want it to run). A gauze pad, cotton ball or Q-Tip will do.
Apply heat every so often with a hair drier or a candle to help release the henna dye for better color. Be VERY careful, do not burn yourself.
Leave henna and sealer on for at least 4 hours (best to leave on overnight). Gently scrape dried henna off. Do NOT wash off with soap and water or it will lighten your design.
After all henna has been removed, you can gently remove the lemon/sugar mixture by gently rubbing henna oil over the design.
Avoid washing your henna tattoo with soap for a day.
These henna designs used a lemon sugar mixture that was too thin. Notice how the henna has run and the design is not crisp.
Super Easy Spray Bandage Sealer Spray bandage makes a terrific henna sealer. It doesn't make a mess and best of all there is no running of your henna, so you get a nice crisp henna tattoo.
After your henna design has set, but before it is completely dry apply spray bandage.
Hold spray bandage 4-6" away from your henna design and spray a light layer.
Wait a few minutes and spray another layer. Repeat if needed.
This henna design used one coat of spray bandage sealer. Notice the henna tattoo is nice and crisp.
Chlorinated water (pools, spas) will fade henna very quickly (this includes tap water which often has high levels of chlorine) so stay away from these to avoid fading your henna design.
Wear gloves when your hands come in contact with chemicals (when cleaning especially).
Use gentle soap when washing hands (stay away from any type of exfoliating soaps).
Wear rubber gloves when washing your hair.
Apply henna oil over your design before showering.
Henna Paste Safety & Ingredients Beachcombers! only offers safe natural henna without harmful chemical additives. Allergies to natural henna are rare, but can occur so always test on an inconspicuous area of skin for allergic reaction. Allergies can develop at anytime, so re-test before every application.
We do not recommend henna be applied to any child under 8 years old. Never apply henna to an infant.
Never use henna with chemicals or henna that does not contain a list of ingredients. If a henna tattoo is jet black and lasts more than 2 days, it is UNSAFE and contains PPD or other dangerous chemicals. If you have used henna with chemicals before, it is even more important to not come into contact with PPD or chemical based henna again. Reactions can happen years after your first exposure. Protect yourself! Always know what is in your henna!
What kind of henna is best for me? New to henna? Overwhelmed with the choices? Don't know the differences between different kinds of henna? This guide will answer your questions!
Henna is a bush (lawsonia inermis) that when ground into a very fine powder and made into a paste, stains your skin leaving a temporary tattoo. Henna used in this artistic form is called mehndi (in India), though most people still refer to the art of mehndi as simply henna. Henna is also used to color the hair, but this article is about henna as a skin stain, not henna as hair color.
Henna was originally used as a way to cool the body in the desert. People would cover the palms of their hands and the soles of their feet with henna and found that as long as there was a stain, their body temperature stayed lower. This practiced migrated from covering the entire palms and soles to one large dot in the center and, eventually, to artistic designs.
A seldom realized henna fact: Henna is a permanent stain. The henna does not fade away, the skin exfoliates off and thus "fades" the henna design. Skin typically exfoliates completely in a cycle of every 20-30 days.
You should NEVER use henna without listed ingredients or henna that contains any type of chemicals. All Beachcombers! henna is chemical-free and has all natural ingredients listed in the book or flyer. Learn more about the dangers of PPD and chemical laced henna here.
A natural henna tattoo will start out an orangish or brownish color once the henna paste is removed. The tattoo will continue to cure over the following day or two darkening to a brownish or reddish hue. The stain will last 1-3 weeks depending on a number of factors.
Anything called henna that leaves a deep black stain and lasts more than a day or two contains PPD and is dangerous. Read about the dangers of "black henna" here.
Henna is available in pre-mixed paste or powder that you mix into your own paste. Pre-mixed henna paste is super easy and ready to use, giving good results. Powder henna needs to be mixed and takes a bit of time, but can yield exceptional results.
Standard Natural Henna Pre-mixed Henna Paste vs. Henna Powder Is premixed henna paste or henna powder right for you? Well, that depends on what you are looking for from your henna tattoo and how much work you want to do to achieve those results.
Pre-mixed paste (picture coming soon) is easy and fun leaving a lighter color. Powder henna is what you need for long lasting dark henna tattoos.
Looking for fun, easy, short term results from your henna tattoo? Pre-mixed paste henna is for you. If you don't want to be stuck with a henna design that will last for 3 weeks or more (especially if you are new and want to practice often or to change your henna design often), pre-mixed henna paste does not stain the skin as deeply as freshly mixed powder. Pre-mixed henna designs typically last 5-15 days and are not as dark as freshly mixed henna powder. This gives you a bit more flexibility and is more forgiving when you are a henna beginner. Pre-mixed henna paste is super easy to use. Just knead the cone or tube and apply your design.
As you grow as a henna artist or if you want darker longer lasting results, you can help your pre-mixed paste by mixing in some natural ingredients and/or using a sealer to keep the moist henna in contact with your skin longer. This is a great way to create a bridge between using pre-mixed henna paste and mixing your own henna straight from henna powder.
Tips for helping pre-mixed paste (applicator required: empty cones, applicator bottles...) Squeeze your pre-mixed henna paste into a small bowl. Add sugar in a ratio of approximately 4 parts henna to 1 part table sugar. Add some lemon juice, but not enough to make the paste too thin. Mix WELL. Mix REALLY WELL. Allow the henna sit for a minimum of 1 hour in a warm location away from sunlight.
After letting your henna paste sit, add a few drops of henna oil, lavender oil, or tea tree oil and mix it well. Cover with plastic wrap letting the wrap come into contact with the henna and removing as many air pockets as possible. Let your henna sit for approximately an hour or as long as overnight. Transfer the henna paste to your chosen applicator and you are ready to go.
Serious about henna? Looking for extra-dark long-lasting henna tattoos? Beachcombers! fresh henna powder is the henna for you. Mixing your own henna paste from powder is more time consuming but can yield astonishingly good results. Be ready to commit to your henna design, as results typically last 2-3 weeks with some designs lasting up to 5 weeks with exceptionally good care. One of the best things about mixing your own henna is you get to create your own personal henna recipe. The Beachcombers! Favorite Henna Recipe is a very easy henna mix to start with and gives fantastic results.
If you are still unsure of what kind of henna is right for you or if you want to try it all, try the Beachcombers! Ultimate Starter Kit or the Beachcombers Sampler Started Kit. They conation both pre-mixed henna paste and henna powder along with the basic henna tools and supplies you will need to start your henna adventure. The Ultimate kit even contains glitter paste! After you have had some fun with the different types of henna you can re-order just what henna products you like from Beachcombers! Henna Products, because you already have all the accessories you need.
Henna Trouble Shooting Guide Henna made easy! Find your henna problem and a list of possible reasons/solutions for you to fix it.
Pre-mixed henna paste is not staining well.
The number one reason henna does not stain well is that the area of the body that the henna is on was not clean. Lotions, sweat, hair products, and anything else on the skin will give you a poor henna stain. Make sure the skin is completely clean before applying henna. Washing with dish soap or wiping the area with rubbing alcohol or which hazel can help.
The henna paste needs to be mixed. Henna can sometimes separate a bit from shipping or sitting for awhile. Be sure to knead your henna cone or tube thoroughly before using.
The moist henna was not left on the skin long enough to develop a good stain. One hour is bare minimum. You should shoot for at least three hours for a good stain, overnight is best. Try sealing the henna design after the henna is set but before it is completely dry. You can also mix in some sugar into the henna to help it stay moist longer and adhere to the skin better. Also, make sure the henna is directly on the skin and not "floating" above the skin on hair.
Powder henna is not staining well.
The number one reason henna does not stain well is that the area of the body that the henna is on was not clean. Lotions, sweat, hair products, and anything else on the skin will give you a poor henna stain. Make sure the skin is completely clean before applying henna. Washing with dish soap or wiping the area with rubbing alcohol or which hazel can help.
The henna did not sit long enough for the dye to develop before being used. After mixing the henna it must sit in a warm area away from sunlight for anywhere between 2-12 hours. The warmer it is the sooner the dye develops.
The moist henna was not left on the skin long enough to develop a good stain. Try sealing the henna design after the henna design has set but before the henna is completely dry to help it stay moist longer. Also, make sure the henna is directly on the skin and not "floating" above the skin on hair.
Henna is drying too quickly or cracking too much while drying.
Your henna mixture needs to be stickier. Add sugar or honey to your henna. This will keep the henna moist longer and will help the henna adhere to your skin.
Try steaming your henna design as it starts to dry to keep it moist longer.
Add a sealer over your henna design after the henna has set but before it is completely dry.
Henna tattoo design is fading quickly.
The moist henna was not left on the skin long enough to develop a good deep stain. Try sealing the henna design after the henna design has set but before the henna is completely dry to help it stay moist longer. Also, make sure the henna is directly on the skin and not "floating" above the skin on hair.
The henna design is coming in contact with water or chemicals too often. Chlorinated water (pools, spas) will fade henna very quickly (this includes tap water which often has high levels of chlorine). Wear rubber gloves when cleaning the house (especially dishes) and when washing your hair. Apply a light layer of Mehndi oil over your henna design before coming into contact with water.
You may be using an exfoliating soap and/or lotion. Most facial soaps are highly exfoliating.
The skin is dry. Where as dry skin helps henna to take and get a nice deep dark stain, it also fades the henna quicker as dry skin sheds it s cells faster than moist skin. Apply henna oil or non-exfoliating lotion over your henna design daily.
I've read the trouble shooting tips but I'm still having trouble.
Try a different part of your body. Henna takes the best on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. Thinner skin like your back or upper arm are more difficult to stain.
Try a different kind of henna. The same henna works differently on different people. If you've been using pre-mixed henna, try mixing fresh henna from henna powder.
Your henna may have lost it's color due to age or improper storage. Keep your henna in a cool dry place or in the refrigerator. When mixing henna, only mix as much as you need at a time. If you mix extra wrap it very tightly and freeze it. If doing henna outside in the heat, keep your henna in a cooler when not in use.
In some very rare cases, henna just doesn't take well to certain people. Never use henna with chemicals to compensate. If henna doesn't take well to you, then you will need to work extra hard. Mix your own henna from henna powder using the Beachcombers! Favorite Henna Recipe. Seal your henna design completely and use additional heat to help activate the henna. Wrap your henna design overnight.
What size khussa shoes do I wear? Beachcombers! khussa shoes have been completely streamlined for true consistent Beachcombers! sizing. If you are a US size 8, you should be a Beachcombers! size 8. If you are US size 8.5 you are likely a size 9 (though in some instances you would be an 8). If you are in between sizes or like a bit of extra room in the toe, size up and add a pair of khussa insoles.
Each shoe listing will let you know the approximate sizes the shoes should fit. For example, some shoe styles may say fits size 7.5 - 8 and other styles may say fits size 8 - 8.5 depending on the measurements of that specific shoe.
Shoes are sized to be worn with your toe all the way to the end of the shoe (as they are worn in India & Pakistan). If you like a bit of extra room in the toe, size up.
Beachcombers! PDF Printable Sizing Template
FOR CORRECT SCALE WHEN PRINTING:
Click on Beachcombers! My-Khussa-Sizer Template link below. Click print in Adobe Reader. When the print box "pops" up, under the "Print Handling" section near the bottom of the box:
Turn the "auto rotate & center" OFF
Under "Page Scaling" choose NONE
Note: These instructions must be followed for the template to be the proper size.
If this link does not load, download the latest version of Adobe Reader.
Download Adobe Reader
Email Jody for Help Shoot me an email answering the below questions. Just copy and paste the questions into the body of your email and add your answers. Please answer all questions.
What size shoes do you normally wear?
Do you ever size up a half a size?
Do you ever size up more than a half a size?
Are your feet wide, average, or narrow width?
Do you like to wear your shoes tight or do you like extra room in the toes?
Is there anything else about your feet to consider when sizing for shoes (previous surgery or other issues that can make sizing difficult)?
What is the item number of the shoes you are interested in? Certain styles run a little differently, so it is important to know the specific shoes you are interested in.
You can expect a response 2- 4 hours during normal business hours and within 24 hours outside of normal business hours. You are also welcome to call during normal business hours.
Email Jody for Khussa Sizing Help - or - Call Toll FREE Tues-Fri, 10-6 EST 1-866-4KHUSSA (1-866-454-8772) Orlando Area: 407-236-7878
Measure Your Foot Take a measurement of your largest foot and compare to the chart below and the individual Khussa shoe listing you are interested in. Take the measurement three times to ensure an accurate reading. Add 1/4 to 1/2 inch to the measurement and get the next size up.
The key measurement is the length. The shoe width measurement may be smaller than the measured width of your foot.
Measurement Tips: Be sure to take your measurement on a hard surface, as carpet will give you an inaccurate reading. Take the measurement three times to ensure an accurate reading.
Trace your foot on a piece of paper and then use a ruler or tape measure to find your actual measurement.
Lay out a tape measure and line your heel up exactly with the zero mark. Put all your weight on your foot and use that measurement.
NOTE: Use common sense. If you normally wear a size 10, but your measurement is showing a size 8, then something is not right. If in doubt, size up. Each shoe listing will let you know the approximate sizes the shoes should fit. For example some shoe styles may say fits size 7.5 - 8 and other styles may say fits size 8 - 8.5 depending on the measurements of that specific shoe.
If you are having any problems finding your size, call our toll-free number, 1-866-454-8772. We are always happy to help!
How do I break in my khussa shoes? These ethnic shoes can become your most comfortable shoes! They mold themselves to your feet and the more your wear them the more comfortable they become.
If they are quality leather khussa: Wet your feet and wear your khussa around the house for an afternoon. Occasionally rewet your feet. If they pinch or rub anywhere, you can put on a band-aide with a cotton ball under it, to help stretch the leather in that spot (i.e. on the back of the heel or on your big toe). Every time you wear your khussa they will become more comfortable as they mold to your feet.
If your khussa have quality man-made uppers or inserts: Putting wet feet into synthetic shoes is not a pleasant experience! If your khussa are not leather, put on a pair of thick socks and wear them around the house for an afternoon. Just like with leather khussa if there are any spots that rub, you can put on a band-aide with a cotton ball under it (though this will not stretch the area as much as it does with leather khussa).
If your khussa shoes are tight, take care to properly break them in. You would be surprised at how much they can stretch. If you need extra stretching, wear damp socks when breaking them in.
If your khussa shoes are too big, simply add foam insoles. You can add full inserts or just toe or heel inserts. You still want to follow the break in instructions above to make your khussa comfortable and form to your feet.
If your shoes have any metal work (dabka or thread), you can store them in an airtight container (i.e. Ziploc bag) to avoid tarnish and keep them looking their best.
More About KhussaShoes... Commonly known as Indian shoes and also known as jootie, mojori, embellished flats, and Indian slippers, khussa have been around for thousands of years. Perfect with any look, boho chic, casual jeans, ethnic, or western.
Brides and Weddings A favorite of brides looking for flats for their wedding or shoes for the reception and honeymoon. Perfect for bridesmaids. What is the first things bridesmaids do after the pictures at the reception? Take off those uncomfortable shoes, of course! For your bridesmaid's gifts, give them gorgeous comfortable Indian shoes to slip into during the reception. Extremely popular for medieval, renaissance, and SCA themed weddings.
Be sure to see our Gift Registry to select Indian shoes, glass bangles, henna, and/or bangle stands for the bridal shower or wedding.
Expecting Mothers Perfect for pregnant women. Flat comfortable shoes, that are supremely stylish. Khussa stretch and mold to your feet, so swollen feet are no problem. Look great after the baby is born, when you just don't have the energy to deal with heels. A wonderfully unique baby shower gift for the mother-to-be!
Be sure to see our Gift Registry to select Indian shoes, glass bangles, henna, and/or bangle stands for the baby shower.
Costumes Khussa are great for costumes of all kinds! Popular as SCA garb and costumes for Renaissance Fairs. Practical and stylish for belly dancers that need to dance on cement or other rough surfaces and before and after the show. The finishing touch to Halloween costumes such as, genie, harem girl, Renaissance Princess, belly dancer, Dorothy of the Wizard of Oz, Danielle (Drew Barrymore's character in Ever After), Cinderella, and more!
Recognizing Quality Khussa Indian Shoes BoHo styles and ethnic looks of the East are hot right now, and embellished khussashoes fit the bill perfectly. However, did you know that not all khussashoes are created equal? Khussa Indian shoes are so pretty with their bright colors and intricate handcrafted beading that it can be easy to overlook quality in your shopping. Low quality shoes will not break in correctly, deform quickly, and can be bad for sensitive skin.
Look for khussa made from high quality leather. The key when shopping for khussashoes, is to look for khussashoes made from high quality leather. Many manufacturers will use inferior leather for the uppers of the khussa and some use poor quality leather for the entire shoe. To avoid this, the uppers should not be a different color leather than the soles. The shoe should look stiff not floppy (good quality khussa leather starts off very stiff, and then breaks in to conform to your foot). The leather should appear thick, not thin. Poor quality leather can be bad for sensitive skin and can take on an offensive odor over time.
These are poor quality ethnic shoes. Notice the floppy worn look and the different shades of leather. They have a used dirty appearance and the leather looks thin. Also, notice the middle picture has a poor quality flesh-tone liner.
Check where the khussa are made. Khussa are referred to as Indian shoes, but they are made in India, Pakistan, and China. Pakistan is widely recognized to provide the best quality handmade khussashoes. Leather is cleaned with a process using salt and Pakistan has huge supplies of salt and uses it liberally. Salt is very expensive in India and is used sparingly to clean leather. Pakistan is also world renown for quality hand stitching (many high end shoes are made in Pakistan, as are sports balls, including the world's best soccer balls). Stitching techniques are passed down through families for many generations. Chinese beaded flats are normally very low quality, cheaply made, and will not last long.
Look for shoes that look like they have good workmanship. If the shoe looks slapped together, it is slapped together. The khussa should look stiff and solid, not floppy or worn. The stitching should be nice and tight. Pen lines and stencil marks on handmade khussa are normal and expected, and often cannot be seen when worn. Take a look at all available pictures when shopping for ethnic khussashoes. Are there plenty of close-up pictures? Do the shoes look to be of high quality?
Notice the general look of quality in the workmanship and the tight stitching.
Make sure the retailer stands behind their product. Will they be there for you after the sale to answer questions? Do they have a return policy (does it allow returns if you get the wrong size)? Does the return policy cover shipping? If not, how much is their shipping? Is there a restocking fee? Are they easy to contact?
More Tips:
Often manufacturers cover poor quality leather with flesh-tone vinyl or "cushion" inserts.
Khussa leather should be stiff at first. Quality khussa shoes will break in over time.
Poor quality leather will often develop a foul odor over time and irritate sensitive skin.
Beware of overly high shipping charges.
Look for khussa shoes that look stiff and new.
If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
What size glass bangles do I wear? The key to wearing glass bangles is to get the correct size. You should wear the smallest size possible for the best look and the least amount of breakage while you are wearing your bangles.
If you are new to Indian bangles, especially if you are new to glass bangles, you should expect a bit of breakage while you get used to them. No worries, this is perfectly normal.
The first step is getting the correct size. It is very important to actually find your size as the size medium bangle do not necessarily correspond with size medium clothes.
We offer three options for finding your Beachcombers! bangle size.
The best way to ensure a perfect fit is to try on actual glass bangles. Beachcombers! offers a Glass Bangle Sizing Kit specifically for this purpose. It is only $2.99 with free shipping, then once you have found your bangle size and order bangles, you get a $2.99 discount making the bangle sizing kit free!
This will ensure a perfect fit, but you have to wait for the kit to be shipped to you, so it does take some time.
2. Beachcombers! PDF Printable Bangle Size Template
This is almost as good as the bangle sizing kit. Just print out the sizing template (making sure it is to the proper scale), cut out the circles, and try to fit your hand through the different circles.
This should show you your bangle size and is instantaneous. If you still have questions, you can always call the Beachcombers! toll-free phone number, 1-866-454-8772.
FOR CORRECT SCALE WHEN PRINTING:
Click on Beachcombers! Bangle Size Template link below. Click print in Adobe Reader. When the print box "pops" up, under the "Print Handling" section near the bottom of the box:
Turn the "auto rotate & center" OFF
Under "Page Scaling" choose NONE
Note: These instructions must be followed for the template to be the proper size.
Once this is printed to the correct scale follow the instructions on the template.
If this link does not load, download the latest version of Adobe Reader.
Download Adobe Reader
3. Measure Good Fitting Bangles You Already Own Take out bangles that you already have and measure the inside diameter and compare to the below measurement chart or the measurement stated in the actual bangle listing.
As long as you measure the inside diameter of your current bangles this will be an accurate way to find your bangle size.
Size
Diameter Inches
Diameter Centimeters
Circumference Inches
S
2.6
2 3/8
6.03
7.46 (7 1/2")
M/L
2.10
2 5/8
6.67
8.25 (8 1/4")
XL
2.12
2 3/4
7.1
8.6 (8 3/5")
4. Measuring Your Hand with a Tape Measure This can be used to find your bangle size, but is a little bit trickier than the printable sizing template, but when done carefully will give you an accurate result.
You will need a flexible tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler.
Make your hand as small as possible, as if you were putting on bangles, bringing your thumb and little finger together.
Using the tape measure (or string), measure the around your hand at the widest point (the tape measure should be pulled taught, not loose). Make note of the actual circumference of your hand (if you used string, make a mark where the string meets, then measure the length of the string with your ruler to get your hand circumference).
Compare your hand circumference to the bangle circumference in the below chart. Purchase bangles that are the next size up from your actual hand measurement.
Size
Diameter Inches
Circumference Inches
Diameter Centimeters
Circumference Centimeters
S
2.6
2 3/8
7.46 (7 1/2")
6.03
19
M/L
2.10
2 5/8
8.25 (8 1/4")
6.67
21
XL
2.12
2 3/4
8.6 (8 3/5")
7.1
22
Glass bangles are breakable and must be put on slowly and carefully in small groups. Typically you will have to use lotion on your hands to get these bangles to slip on. The 2.10 M/L is the most common size in the U.S. and should fit most women.
If in doubt of your bangle size, size up. If you are buying a gift for someone, get the 2.10 size
How do I put on Indian glass bangles? Glass bangles are not like typical bangles. They are delicate and can cut you if they break so they must be put on carefully. They key is to get the correct size. Click here if you need to find your size.
Loosen up your hand by giving yourself a quick hand massage (or better yet, have someone else give you a hand massage!). Apply more lotion/oil if needed.
Join your fingers together to make your hand as small as possible (do NOT stiffen you hand up).
Hold your hand up VERTICAL from the floor. If you keep your arm down in a horizontal position, the bangles will be more difficult to get on.
Slowly and carefully work the bangles on in small groups (2-4 at a time) being careful that the bangles are straight over top of each other.
Wiggle your fingers a bit when the bangles get to the widest point of your hand.
Clap and move your hands often to draw attention to your new jewelry!
TIP: Use as much lotion or mehndi oil as needed. You can't use too much!
Learn How to Put Glass Bangles On Without Breakage
Recognizing Quality Bangle Stands With the explosion of ethnic Indian influence in fashion, such as beaded khussa shoes (embellished flats) and Indian glass wedding bangles, comes a new hot item, wooden bangle stands from Pakistan and India. Unlike the velvet and vinyl bangle and bracelet displays that are commonplace in jewelry stores across the U.S., these bangle stands feature a unique shape and cultural difference from their standard counterparts.
Since most wood bangle stands can only be found and purchased online, finding a quality wood bangle stand can pose a challenge. Photos can hide many flaws and can be altered to reflect a higher perceived value then what is actually delivered to the customer. Also many problems associated with low quality stands are not immediately evident. The lower quality stands may appear solid and high quality when new, but when handled over time many construction and design flaws can creep up that can ruin the function and cosmetic value of the bangle stand.
Most wood bangle stands that come from India and Pakistan are hand made or use very little machine work in their construction. Typically wood handicraft from India and Pakistan come from small shops all over the country. Many of these shops do not keep their work areas clean of sawdust. The introduction of termites and other wood-eating insects are prevalent in this environment. These pests tend to find their way to the completed bangle stands prior to shipment to the retailer and then inevitably to the customer.
Larger manufacturers use clean environments and closed conditions to keep such contamination at bay. Many of the cleaner manufactures tend to supply retailers such as World Market, Pier One Imports, and Beachcombers! Bazaar. The turnaround time from manufacture to delivery of the stands is much faster, lessening the chance of any such contamination. The handmade nature of the stand is left intact but what is delivered is a clean and bug free stand. Ask the retailer if such credentials are true of their brand of bangle stand.
Signs of insect damage and contamination:
Small holes in the wood
Fine powder like sawdust in the packaging of the stand when first opened
Small black ant like insects in or around the stands
A faint crunching noise coming from within the wood
Other traits of low quality stands can be found in the design and construction of the stand itself.
Design Flaws:
Narrow tall stands that lend to being unstable
Thin lightweight wood that can contribute to a less sturdy or stable stand
Soft wood that can be prone to splitting, warping and humidity damage
Construction Flaws:
Uneven cuts and screw holes leading to stands that teeter and do not stand flat and stable
No assembly instructions provided
Shallow drilled holes for the screws, leading to splits and cracking
Low quality screws that strip and/or damages the finish of the stand
Metal work such as brass end caps on the end of the arms that do not fit or are dented
Using nails to hold the caps instead of pressing on which lend to cracks and splits
Rusty hardware
Like the low quality stands, high quality traits can be found on stands that stand out from the rest. Most high quality display stands are the direct opposite of the low quality versions.
Signs of High Quality Stands:
Thick heavy wood with straight cuts, even holes and a wide base
Clean bug free wood with no warping
Zinc or stainless steel screws and hardware (to prevent rusting)
Pressed end caps and metal work (no nails)
As with any handmade product a few duds always fall through the cracks. The final mark of a good wooden bangle stand can be found not with the stand but with the retailer.
Always read or ask the retailer of their return policy
Are they willing to refund or exchange a defective stand?
Is there a restocking fee?
Find out if the retailer is a solid company with a good reputation.
As wooden bangle stands grow in popularity and become more mainstream, an array of both low and high quality stands will be available. Armed with this knowledge you will be able to make an informed decision and in the end purchase a stand that can last for years. Keep in mind, as with all things, if the deal sounds too good to be true, it is. You often get what you pay for.
Choorie (Indian Glass Bangle Bracelets) Choorie are normally made of glass, though they can be metal or plastic. In India and Pakistan they are worn daily, although women wear large fancy sets for special occasions. Glass bangles are a must for brides and their guests. Traditionally worn in large numbers on both wrists, they can be mixed and matched with other sets, worn a few at a time, or any way you can think of. How to wear Indian bangles is limited only by your imagination. They are very easy to incorporate with western style clothing.
Khussa (Indian Shoes) Also know as nagra, jootie, Indian slippers, or mojri these (often) handmade leather shoes have been worn by Royalty for centuries. Very little has changed in them, though they don t normally have real gems on them anymore! Absolutely stunning and very comfortable. Both shoes are identical and can be worn on either foot and have the exceptional ability of adjusting and conforming to your foot size. You simply wet your feet and slip them on. Wear them around the house for a little while, and when you are ready to wear them out, they will fit like a glove. The more they are worn, the better they fit.
These embellished flats are very popular right now, and are an easy way to add style to any outfit. Terrific with boho styles and classic styles.
About ethnic clothing... Traditionally worn in India, Pakistan, and other Middle Eastern countries and Islamic cultures, these stunning suits are a perfect blend of elegant beauty, figure flattering lines, and extreme comfort. Savvy, fashion forward women in the West are making this style their own. Outfits are traditionally three pieces, a bottom, blouse, and scarf. They are often referred to by the name of the bottom only (for example, salwar would refer to a three piece pant suit and lengha would refer to a three piece skirt suit).
Salwar (Pant) Salwar are comfortable loose-fitting pants that typically have an elastic or drawstring waist and are paired with a kameez or kurta. The bottom is usually stitched into a stiff "cuff" that comes to a point over the front of the foot. Some salwar, know as pyjama, are extra long and worn tightly gathered below the calf. Pyjama also refers to the wide leg style. They are one-size-fits-most (for example, if they are too short, just wear them lower on your waist).
Lengha (Skirt) Lengha is a long full skirt that is typically paired with a kameez, kurta, or choli. Lengha typically has an elastic waist, though sometimes it has a drawstring, belt-and-hook, or button/zipper waist. The waist is usually adjustable enough to fit most sizes. Extremely elegant and often glamorous enough for the most formal of occasions.
Kameez/Kurta (Blouse) The kameez is a long shirt often with slits to the waist that drapes elegantly over the pant or skirt. The kameez covers the drawstring and any extra fabric at the waist. With its clean long lines, this suit is not only comfortable but figure flattering for all shapes and sizes. Pair this fashionable shirt with jeans or use as a swimsuit cover up for another unique look. The kameez body is made of two pieces of fabric and the kurta is made of six pieces (1 front, 1 back, and 2 on each side). The kurta has a looser style (men's suits are often kurta). Often kameez is used to refer to either kameez or kurta.
Choli (Blouse) Choli is a tight fitting shirt that is usually paired with a sari or lengha. Traditionally choli are worn very tight and very short, but choli can be various lengths and tightness. Often Lengha is paired with a loose waist-length choli.
Dupatta (Shawl or Scarf) Salwar and lengha normally have a blouse and dupatta. The dupatta is a large scarf that is worn in a variety of ways. It can be pinned or draped over one shoulder, draped over both shoulders (either in front, so the ends trail down your back, or in back draped like a stole), tied diagonally, or even tied at the waist. You can sometimes even wear a dupatta as a sarong or swim suit cover-up. This elegant decorative piece provides an elegant final polished finish to the suit.
Sari (Saree) Saris have been around for thousands of years as women s traditional Indian dress. A sari is one large piece of fabric (six yards) that is artfully wrapped around the body. It can be wrapped in innumerable ways and can show as much or as little skin as you like. It is possible the most beautiful piece of clothing a woman can wear.
Kundan Jewelry Kundan is a form of gem setting involving putting a piece of foil between the gem and it s setting for an unparallel reflective quality. An ancient technique that has been passed down for generations, kundan is usually the jewelry of choice for brides.
Mangalsutra Traditionally the mangalsutra necklace is a symbol for Hindu married women. It symbolizes the bond between husband and wife, and the Hindu marriage ceremony is completed when the groom places the mangalsutra on the bride. Typically made of gold (sometimes silver) and black beads with a pendant, the bride wears it proudly throughout her marriage until her husband has passed on.
Bindi Traditionally the red dot bindi is a sign of marriage (like the mangalsutra). Now it is often worn in many shapes, sizes and colors, and not always on the forehead. Western women have taken to wearing bindi at the corner of the eye, the small of the back, near the navel, or anywhere else they like. It s a beautiful, safe, removable piece of body art.
Take out bangles that you already have and measure the inside diameter and compare to the below measurement chart or the measurement stated in the actual bangle listing.
