Prayer Flags- Peace, Compassion, Strength, Wisdom

Thanks to @crescendo for this WONDERFUL swap idea!!!! This swap is for prayer flags.

Here's a little info on what they are:

Traditionally, prayer flags are used to promote peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom. The flags do not carry prayers to gods, a common misconception; rather, the Tibetans believe the prayers and mantras will be blown by the wind to spread the good will and compassion into all pervading space. Therefore, prayer flags are thought to bring benefit to all. By hanging flags in high places the Lung ta will carry the blessings depicted on the flags to all beings. As wind passes over the surface of the flags which are sensitive to the slightest movement of the wind, the air is purified and sanctified by the Mantras.

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.

Because the symbols and mantras on prayer flags are sacred, they should be treated with respect. They should not be placed on ground or used in clothing. Old prayer flags should be burned.

THE PURPOSE OF THIS SWAP IS TO HAVE FLAGS TO HANG OUTSIDE OUR HOMES AND EXPOSED TO THE ELEMENTS IN THE MANNER THE TIBETANS DID - SO THAT AS THE THINGS FADE AND THE STRINGS UNRAVEL - THOSE WISHES/POSITIVE MANTRAS/PRAYERS ARE RELEASED INTO AND ONTO THE WORLD

How to Make Prayer Flags

1. Cut pieces of fabric to 6" x 12". Use materials you already have on hand if at all possible. I welcome you to repurpose materials you have at home. It's best for the fabric to be cotton as it needs to be able to unravel as time passes.

2. Fold the top down on each piece of fabric and stitch in place (by hand or machine) to create a 3" sleeve, making the flag surface 6" x 9". Leave the edges unhemmed or unfinished. You may use glue instead of sewing to create the hanging pocket - that way non-sewers can also participate. Make sure to use a sufficient amount of glue to hold in the elements as this will hang outside.

3. Paint, stitch, stamp, dye, embroider, appliqué, or collage the flags... absolutely WHATEVER strikes your fancy. 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.

4. 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.

For this swap you will:

• Make 4 flags for 1 partner - they will correspond to the four concepts traditionally referred to on prayer flags - peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom. Colors, elements,additional text, and mediums are up to sender, but there must be one flag for each of the four concepts and the word must appear SOMEWHERE on the flag.

• Follow the above instructions (and dimensions) for making the flag.

• Do your best work, send what you would want to receive, and truly put your heart into your work. Let's fill up those karmic banks!

• Pm me if you have any questions