Henna Tattooing on Unsuspecting Persons

Purpose:

Explore the psychological implications of henna tattooing upon unsuspecting persons.

(Part of a continuing study on the effects of various stimuli on unsuspecting persons, in particular Test Subject JW.)

Hypothesis:

Test subject will react negatively at first, then settle into reluctant amusement. No major psychological upheaval foreseen.

Materials and Methods:

Prepared Henna Paste

Bowl (for paste)

Small Brush (for application)

Unsuspecting Test Subject (JW)

1. Prepare test subject by effecting a safe environment in which to encourage deep slumber. (It has been noted in prior experiments that a recording of soft violin music, played during the night, will induce such an environment for Test Subject JW.)

2. Judge Test Subject's responsiveness through snapping fingers next to the ear. If responsive, remove self from situation. If unresponsive, proceed as directed.

3. Dip brush into prepared henna paste.

4. Wipe brush on edge of bowl containing henna, so as to ensure a non-dripping brush

5. Paint test subject. The paint's design is unnecessary for experimentation; however, it should be noted that more intricate designs may have a pleasing effect on the overall visage of the test subject.

6. Leave paint on for several hours (4-5), if possible. Subject may wake up before the allotted time if done too late in the resting period, so act within the first REM cycle.

7. After the henna paste has sufficiently dried onto the skin, brush the henna flakes off. Wait for subject to wake. Record reaction.

Results:

Test subject reacted negatively upon realization, as predicted, in the form of groans, undignified yelling, and various bodily threats towards experimenter. Test subject also expressed confusion as to the final facial design, and upon explanation (experimenter was unable to turn JW's head to complete the other side of the henna moustache), was moved to laughter. Test Subject JW then demanded experimenter to "do the other side, then, you gigantic prat". Experimenter refused, citing lab write-up as excuse. Test Subject JW now making tea, but refusing to make any for experimenter until "either you give me a full mustache or take the damn thing off." Test Subject JW has not noticed hands, as of yet.

Test Subject JW reacted negatively to designs on hands. Using Test Subject JW's own laptop as a shield against pillows apparently not acceptable behavior (?).

Test Subject JW seems to have calmed down through the process of "T&T" (Tea and Telly). Experimenter received kiss on forehead and fond cheek-pat before Test Subject JW sat down. Test Subject JW called experimenter "you brilliant nutter", then asked if there were any more surprises for today.

Experimenter fixed facial design to its original intention. Test Subject JW now has henna handle-bar mustache. Test Subject JW is inordinately pleased with mustache; unexpected. Threatening to grow one of his own.

Experimenter professed entirely valid concern that Test Subject JW would then look like walrus. Test Subject JW reacted negatively. Tussle ensued between victimized experimenter and Test Subject JW; not entirely unpleasant.

Test Subject JW took unfair advantage of experimenter's distraction with JW's hand designs and pinned experimenter. Test Subject JW then gave experimenter kiss on forehead; seems to be fond of those.

Discussion:

Test Subject JW reacted as hypothesized.

(Still fun.)

o.O.o

A/N: I do not own BBC Sherlock, nor the characters.

A bit of a different format for the crack/fluff stories that I can never quite get out of my head. Because of course Sherlock would have a Lab Book on Interpersonal Experimentation. What do you guys think? Interesting? No? Should I do more?