APRIL PRAYER FLAG

Create one prayer flag for your partner to add to her string.

Prayers/mantras/messages, colors, elements, text, and mediums are Sender's choice.

Some wonderful examples can be found at websites such as these listed below. Please Note: you do NOT have to be a quilter or know how to sew to join this swap!

Cloth Paper Scissors Magazine

The Prayer Flag Project

Prayer Flag Project on Flickr

THE PURPOSE OF THIS SWAP IS TO HAVE FLAGS TO HANG OUTSIDE OUR HOMES AND EXPOSED TO THE ELEMENTS IN THE MANNER THE TIBETANS DO - SO THAT AS THE WIND BLOWS AND THE FLAGS FADE, THE THREADS UNRAVEL - THOSE WISHES/POSITIVE MANTRAS/PRAYERS CONTINUE TO BE RELEASED INTO THE WORLD

HOW TO MAKE PRAYER FLAGS:

Cut pieces of fabric to 6" x 12". You can use fabric that is of the traditional 5 colors, or use any other color or colors you love. You may use materials you already have on hand. I welcome you to re-purpose materials you have. Cotton fabric works well as it unravels as time passes. Or use another fabric that unravels fairly easily.

Fold the top down on the piece of fabric and stitch in place (by hand or machine, or use a strong fabric adhesive) to create a 3" sleeve, making the flag surface 6" x 9". If using glue, make sure to use a sufficient amount to hold elements together as the flag is meant to hang outside. Leave the edges unfinished so they will unravel over time.

Paint, stitch, stamp, dye, embroider, applique, print, or collage the flags... absolutely WHATEVER strikes your fancy. Add words, journaling, or symbols as desired. You can appliqué letters, add hand stitching, stencil with textile paint, or just write with a permanent marker.

Just remember - the style you send out may NOT be the style you get in return (you may embroider but your partner may paint theirs, for example). The point is the INTENT and the THOUGHT that your partner has put in to making this flag.

ENJOY!