IS: Spring/Renewal Prayer Flag

Prayer flags are small, colorful, decorated cloths that can be strung on a line and hung in the breeze. They are printed with prayers and images from traditional woodblocks. 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. Prayer flags are used to promote peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom. Tibetans renew their hope 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.

The theme for this month's Prayer Flag is Spring/Renewal, so you can begin working on it right away.

Your finished Prayer Flag should measure 9 inches long by 6 inches wide. There needs to be a way to hang the flag, either a tube to insert a dowel, or an attached hanger (cord, ribbon, or wire.) Embellish the fabric with lace, mixed media or 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 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 make one prayer flag for one partner. The finished flag should be 6 inches wide by 9 inches long and be either rectangular or triangular with the 6 inch width at the top.

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.

I do review profiles and I reserve the right to ban participants before assigning partners.