I thought for sure that I had posted about making prayer flags but not so! Prayer flags have a long tradition and they can be seen in many different configurations. There is no right or wrong way. There is a blog devoted to Prayer Flags at : ThePrayerFlagProject.blogspot.com There you will find tutorials and many examples of how various artists have interpreted and created their own Prayer Flags. (mine are posted in March this year 2015)
I had thought about making and hanging some flags for well over a year and was waiting to be inspired it seems 🙂 A few months ago I was walking down the aisle of a local craft shop and found a package of burlap banner shaped pieces in the clearance section. The first thing that I thought of was that they would be perfect for Prayer Flags. And if I messed up, then the investment was minimal.
There were four of these burlap shapes in front of me looking like this:
each measured 5 1/2 ” by 7 1/2 “
The first thing that I did before anything else was to stay stitch inside all the edges of all the flags to minimize fraying. Burlap frays. I didn’t mind that, It enhanced the rustic look that I was trying to achieve. But I did want to contain the amount. I used black thread and a zig zag stitch and stitched each flag on every side about 1/4 inch in from the edge.
I figured there was no hiding of the stay stitching so I incorporated it into the overall design
You are goiing to need to attach a narrow muslin 
sleeve to the top. Do that now by machine UNLESS you are going to use that top space for your hand stitching later. In which case you will attach the sleeve as the last step with each flag.
Gather your fabrics and threads and design your flags. I used muslin for the inspirational words, and a variety of fabrics: cheesecloth, bits of organza, felt, burlap. Use whatever your design calls for!
I also added a few beads, some ribbon and buttons and hand stitched with embroidery cotton of various sizes.
The final step was to string the four finished flags together by running a length of hemp through the sleeves.
Details of the Four Flags Below
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Published by Guila Greer
I first learned how to sew as a child on my mom’s old treadle Singer (and wish that I knew where that machine is now!) and am now in love with my Berninas.
While going to school, raising a family and enjoying two satisfying careers I continued developing my skills with all kinds of needlecrafts and eventually discovered the magic of quilting.
Very quickly I realized that most "traditional" quilting was too confining and that I needed to be able to use my imagination and creativity more. This led to an interest in art quilting and I've been busy soaking up all kinds of techniques and adapting them to my creations.
Now, I find myself on a journey to uncover, develop and to express the inner artist that I have so joyfully let loose.
I have learned so many ways to create beauty in fiber and am eager to share this knowledge. I love to teach and I love to create – what could be better?
I am in love with color - saturated vibrant color. An example of "fun" for me is experimenting with color combinations that defy the rules.
I have also learned that there truly are no "quilt police" when it comes to one's personal expression of creativity; no right or wrong way. It just has to feel right and look right to you.
it is all a voyage of discovery. I just can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Several of my quilts, both traditional and art quilts have been displayed at Quilting in the Valley in Northridge, California, Lefferts Historic House and the Audubon Society in New York City.
My work "Going Around in All the Best Circles" was juried into the Pacific International Quilt Show.
I am the author of the blog: The Mystical Allure of All Things Fiber since 2007.
In recent years I have uncovered a passion for writing - especially poetry - as well and have a lot of it on http://minervaspirit.com
See: http://guilagreerart.com
View all posts by Guila Greer
each measured 5 1/2 ” by 7 1/2 “
Love love the prayer banners. Great ideal.
Annette, thank you very much for visiting my blog and for leaving such a complimentary comment. These were really fun to do. Especially if you enjoy a little hand work. Don’t hesitate to ask if you want to make some and have any questions.