Prayer Flag - Maiden Archetype swap

This is the second in a 12-month series of creating prayer flags for one partner that is based on the book, THE CIRCLE OF LIFE by Davis and Leonard. If you join in for all 12, you would have a full palate of colors and ways to see yourself as a Woman.

Even non-machine-sewers can participate. You can buy pre-cut Fat Quarters at JoAnn’s, or Hobby Lobby for under $2. Any sort of thread and needle will help you sew the seam closed in back. You could even hot glue the seam closed knowing it will come apart in weather, as well as gluing on any other accessories. Use a permanent marker to write words or draw symbols. Do an online search for examples & let your imagination take over.

Prayer Flags start at 6” wide and 12” long. The top is folded over 3” in back to make a sleeve for a rope the recipient uses to hang the flags on. They are meant to disintegrate in the weather as the intentional prayer is answered, so ends are not finished and simple is better. Why simple? Beads, fancy threads can be dangerous to birds and other wildlife if swallowed. Remember to be kind to nature.

One option and not required: Include a piece of ribbon your partner can use to tie her PF outside that would go into the sleeve area.

Your prayer flags can be of any color, any eco-friendly fabric and symbolize the sender’s interpretation of the Archetype. Please include a note with the swap name, your ID and any information you might wish to share about your creative process and what your intention for the PF is.

According to the book, a MAIDEN is that phase of life from adolescence to First Blood. It is a time of great conflict for independence and anxieties over pending responsibilities. It is also a time of budding sexuality and attractiveness, as the MAIDEN explores fashion, makeup, and outgrowing the family nest as she steps into the world. She may be shy about her body or push herself beyond comfort. Her First Blood may be either a great experience or horrifying. Each of us has our story.

Select at least one of the Maiden’s characteristics above, or one of your own, as a focus to create your prayer flag. For instance, you could find fabric in a red color as your background, symbolizing that energy. If what you want to heal in yourself (and your swap partner) is something about this time in our life, from getting a training bra to being teased. Everyone is unique and the conflict we felt is real.

You could print words on the prayer flag that affirm your beautiful self that was not acknowledged. (Again your choice) Anything you want to use as a symbol for healing is going to be perfect for you as you create and perfect for your partner to receive.

RECAP:

1. Sender’s choice to make one prayer flag 6” wide by 12” long to be folded down 3” in back to make a sleeve.

2. Any color, any eco-friendly fabric, with eco-friendly accessories

3. Select one aspect of the Maiden Archetype for your focus

4. Include note with swap name, your ID and information on your creative process

5. Send by date due (no flaking)

Please email me if you have questions.

1. Rate with kindness and 5’s as long as sender meets swap requirements.