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Sugar Lump Studios

Art by Nancy Maxwell James

{Prayer Flags}

June 2, 2012

As seen on the Paper Whimsy inspire blog:
http://paperwhimsy.com/inspiration/?p=2706

Hope, Faith, Joy and Dreams…prayers for those we love and those we may not know but support spiritually. I first discovered “Prayer Flags” a few weeks back. I was instantly intrigued. I loved the history behind them and the way one could express themselves through art and healing. In my eyes “prayers” are from all faiths and a support network that each of us can share.

I decided to make the prayer flags in a neutral color scheme. Hand sewn words of encouragement are on each flag. You could also do this using letter stamps, rub on words, or if your flag is going to be hung indoors…print out words on paper and sew on to the fabric.

Technique:

(1) Cut fabric or paper to desired width/length for prayer flag. I cut cotton canvas 5 inches wide by
9 inches tall. The top hem is 3/4 inch. You can experiment with lengths for your flags and hem widths. I frayed the edges by pulling strands of fabric.

(2) Add layers of lace randomly on the fabric. You could also use layers of printed calico fabrics. I stitched with my sewing machine but this could also be done by hand. The trick is adding layers a little at a time to build up a “base” of sorts for your flag.

(3) Using embroidery floss, I hand stitched words on to each flag. I did not aim for perfection with my lettering, but a more “primitive” look.

(4) Add charms, buttons, beads, and embellishments to your flag.

(5) Create several flags and hang on a long piece of twine, string, or ribbon. Or find pieces of driftwood and sticks and insert through the top hem. Display individually, or as a garland outside, in the studio, office, or bedroom.

Variations:

Experiment with colors and patterns for your flags.
Create larger hemlines at the top of the flag for visual interest.
Add remnants of ruffles or old hankies at the bottom of the flags.
Use rubber stamps or paint on flags to add mixed media effects.

 

To learn more about Prayer Flags you may visit this blog:

theprayerflagproject.blogspot.com

Filed in: Uncategorized • by Sugar Lump Studios • 15 Comments

About Sugar Lump Studios

I am a dabbler. I love to create using all sorts of mediums...pattern papers, stamping, fabric, assemblage, collage, altered art, a never ending smattering of whatever strikes my fancy in whimsical moments. I find creating allows my soul to be fulfilled and love to spend hours in the studio.

Comments

  1. Sandy

    June 2, 2012 at 12:41 pm

    Wow wow wow wow wow wow love your lace work Miss Nancy.
    This is a wonderful inspiration for me.
    Gorgeous.

    Have a lovely weekend sweetie. xoxo

    Reply
  2. ~*~ Patty

    June 2, 2012 at 3:38 pm

    Really beautiful on every level … Prayer Flags are something I have been “thinking” about…You are so creative and so generous…thank you dear one

    Happy June!
    oxo

    Reply
  3. Amy Jo

    June 2, 2012 at 3:50 pm

    This is lovely Nancy. I don’t do a lot of sewing anymore but just might do some after seeing such a beautiful piece.
    Hugs

    Reply
  4. femmy

    June 3, 2012 at 3:33 am

    beautiful flags Nancy!

    Reply
  5. Martina

    June 3, 2012 at 4:55 am

    Nancy, your fabric collage is FABULOUS in every way. Love, love, love this. Congratulations on your wonderful artwork.

    Have a nice sunday.
    Hugs
    MARTINA

    Reply
  6. Wanda H

    June 3, 2012 at 8:20 am

    These are wonderful, Nancy!!!

    Reply
  7. Kasia

    June 3, 2012 at 4:26 pm

    BEAUTIFUL!!! I cant express this enough, your talent astounds me! >:D I LOVE your creations and this one is no different!

    Hugs,

    Reply
  8. Suzy

    June 5, 2012 at 6:02 am

    Nancy these prayer flags are such an inspiration. I love them!
    I’ve been wanting to create some for ages. OMG! There’s never enough hours to create all the beauty that fills our heart and soul!
    Blessings and prayers to you!
    Suzy

    Reply
  9. Marilyn J. Rock

    June 5, 2012 at 1:40 pm

    Beautiful as always Nancy! xxoo

    Reply
  10. rein

    June 7, 2012 at 3:29 pm

    These are beautiful!

    Reply
  11. Martina

    June 8, 2012 at 2:14 pm

    Love your flags, Nancy! They are so beautiful!

    Have a nice weekend, my dear.
    Hugs
    MARTINA

    Reply
  12. Rini

    June 10, 2012 at 1:23 pm

    Wonderful , lovely !
    ♥RINI♥

    Reply
  13. Jann

    June 11, 2012 at 10:11 am

    Such beautiful prayer flags–I will check out the link–thank you!

    Reply
  14. angi eharis

    June 18, 2012 at 12:22 pm

    i love these and am going to start one today, it was just my grandaughters b-day and i wanted to make her something special, since her and i make jewelry together all the time i wanted something unique and this is it1 thanks for sharing! aloha! angi in hana

    Reply
  15. Julia - Vintage with Laces

    June 22, 2012 at 2:19 am

    Very beautiful, Nancy! I love each piece.
    Hugs,
    Julia

    Reply

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