This is round 2 of the prayer flag swap run by @PinkLotus back in Feb. I am shamelessly copying the text from her swap for this one :o) In this round we will be sending one flag to each of 4 different partners.This is a change from last time where we sent all 4 flags to one partner. You can make the same flag for each partner, or a different one for each, its up to you.

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.

(*It is fine to recycle old clothing to MAKE the flags).

The most common, traditional prayer flags are block printed with Buddhist imagery on a rectangle of loosely woven, brightly colored cotton. They are always the same five colors (blue, white, red, green, yellow) and hung in the same sequence. But today, quilters and Mixed-media fiber artists have adopted these textile art forms, interpreting them in their own ways.

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 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". (you can use fabric that is of the traditional 5 colors, or use any other color you love). 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 total and send 1 to each partner - Prayers, Colors, elements, text, and mediums are up to sender, so you can start making them any time.

• 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

I am allowing plenty of time for you to complete your flags due to the fact that many people will be likely taking vacations this time of year. You are, of course, always welcome to start making your flags before partners are assigned.

Please no recent 1's or 3's yadda yadda yadda participant no-flake rules yadda yadda.