FF: Prayer Flags - Sender's Choice

Prayer flags are small, colorful, decorated cloths strung on a line and hung in the breeze. Traditionally, prayer flags are used to promote peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom. The flags do not carry prayers to gods, which is a common misconception; rather, the Tibetans believe the prayers will be blown by the wind to spread good will and compassion throughout the world. Therefore, prayer flags are thought to bring benefit to all. The prayers of a flag become a permanent part of the universe as the images fade from exposure to the elements; just as life moves on and is replaced by new life. Tibetans renew their hopes for the world by continually mounting new flags alongside the old. This act symbolizes a welcoming of life's changes and an acknowledgment that all beings are part of a greater ongoing cycle.

To make your flag begin with a piece of material or felt that is 8”x5”. Fold the top inch over and sew it securely to form a tube for your string or cord. Embellish the fabric with lace, mixed media or all stitching and fabric, buttons, beads, charms; whatever you like. The flag may be a single fabric layer or several layers if layered embellishments are added or if some elements require backing fabric. Add words, journaling, or symbols as desired. It's up to you as to what designs or techniques you want to use on your flag for this swap. It is not necessary to finish or bind the edges.

Making these little pieces of fabric art is a terrific way to experiment with new techniques and supplies. Each one requires just a small investment of time and materials, but the payoff is great in art and spirit!

Don’t forget to sign your name and any special thoughts you wish to convey on the back of your flag.

For this swap you will have one partner. You will make one prayer flag with a tube so it can be strung on yarn, string, or wire. The finished flag should be 5 inches wide by 7 inches long and be either rectangular or triangular with the 5 inch width at the top. This first Prayer Flag swap is SENDER'S CHOICE.

The first paragraph of this swap is based on a swap that @Ky did and she gave me permission to use that paragraph. @LittleRed also allowed me to use some of her wording for describing how to embellish the prayer flag. The Prayer Flags in the picture are from http://mousehouseart.blogspot.com, she also has pictures of each individual flag on her blog.

Edited to correct a typo!