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Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Prayer Flag for a Fisherman


With the message of  strength, this little prayer flag was made with a fisherman in mind.  The flag is woven cotton and old jean fabric.  I tear the fabrics, that allows them to unravel a little quicker--and spread the message.  I added two 'fussy cut" fish by hand stitched them to the flag. The flag measures 8" x 20".   Added a button, some ribbon and this flag is ready to spread the word and help someone over come an illness.  Happy Quilting!

Monday, May 26, 2014

Quilting Comfort Zone


This past year has been a real adjustment for me and my quilt making.  I loved making and donating the 9" x 12" AAQI quilts.  When AAQI reached the Million Dollar goal and was no longer accepting donations I was at a quilting loss.  I have made only a few large quilts, but always found them hard to manage and frustrating.  I have made a few wall hangings, experimented with different techniques, but still couldn't find my quilting comfort zone.  Last year, while surfing the net, I discovered Prayer Flags.  They have a long history beginning in Tibet over 2000 years ago and in recent years have enjoyed a new twist.  They are creations of art with a message. Quilters and mixed media artists are using laces, bangles, beads, ribbons, fabric pen and paints to embellish the little flags.

About eight months ago a friend of mine was diagnosed with Lymphoma.  She was going to undergo aggressive treatments and was scared.  I kept trying to think what could I do for her.  Then it came to me---Prayer Flag.  It was the first of many I made last year.  I included ribbons, buttons, lace and written words---strength, faith, patience courage and love.  The prayer flags were a major success.  Every flag I sent last year was greatly appreciated and have been displayed for many months since the illness or crisis has long passed.

My Prayer Flags vary in size, but all allow me to make a quilt-type base embellished with a variety of options and add a personal touch for the recipient.  The flag pictured above is being sent to a friend who is recovering from triple bypass heart surgery.  She likes the oriental look, so I tried to pick a fabric with that feel.  The flag is 6" x 13 1/2" and will be in the mail on Tuesday.  The flags send a message of positive thoughts and prayers.  They give the recipient a stepping stone to their own personal prayer time or reflection during a difficult time in their lives.  And like the original Prayer Flags of Tibet, flapping in the wind, the message will live as long as the flag is displayed.  With each flag I include a note telling the history of Prayer Flags and how they may be displayed so that their message would spread far and wide.

These little flags send a far more personal wish for wellness than a Hallmark card.  I will be making more flags as the months go by.  The flags allow me to do both machine and hand work on a small quilt like gift for someone who may need a lift.  I'm sure I will be posting more about the flags and finding my quilting muse.  Remember our soldiers past and present on this Memorial Day and Happy Quilting!

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Sunday---Precious Promises


Work in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.  Colossians 1:10

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Sunday---Precious Promises


That whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  John 3 15-16

Sunday, May 11, 2014

Sunday---Precious Promises


Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.  Proverbs 31:30

Monday, May 5, 2014

Everyday---Precious Promises


Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace; thereby good shall come unto thee.  Job 22:21