Private: Prayer flags

This is a paint-and-stitch mixed media project. You have the option of hand stitching, machine sewing or doing a combination of each.

• Begin by cutting a piece of fabric to 13 X 28 centimeters (5 X 11 inches). You can use materials you already have on hand, but I've noticed the tutorials floating around tend to call for cotton fabrics. Also, since we're using paint, a solid rather than patterned piece may work best.

• Fold the top down (along the short side) and stitch in place to create an 8 cm sleeve (3"), making the flag surface 13 X 20 cm (5 × 8 in). This sleeve will be the pocket you use to hang your flag on a string or curtain rod or little decorative flag pole, etc.

• Paint the flag. You can paint designs by hand or print with a printing plate. If you'd rather use spray inks, you can do that, too. The point is to add a color foundation and express your creativity.

• When the paint or ink is dry, stitch around the painted design. Again, how you choose to do this is up to you.

• The last step is to embellish your flag. You can add words, charms, beads, decorative stitches, lace, Fun Fibers, fabric strips, stamped images, etc. Do not add organic materials like sticks or seed pods if your partner lives in a country with mailing restrictions.

• Leave the edges of the flag unfinished.

• Include your username and swap information in the swap.

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