How to Make a Buddhist Prayer Flag

Tibetan Buddhists believe the wind will carry desires written on prayer flags to the world.

Tibetan Buddhists believe that by writing and illustrating their desires on prayer flags, the wind will deliver the desires to the world. The custom of prayer flags began in Tibet more than 2,000 years ago, 14 centuries before Buddhism was introduced to the country. Prayer flags are simple and inexpensive to make.

Things You'll Need

• Smooth fabric of any style or color
• Waterproof markers
• Fabric paints (optional)
• Twine
• Safety pins

Instructions

1. Cut a 12-inch square out of fabric. Do not be concerned about frayed edges -- prayer flags are designed to dissolve in the wind.

2. Write or illustrate your prayer on the square using markers or paints. Typical Tibetan Buddhist prayers include pleas for peace, harmony and healing in the world.

3. Fasten the finished flag to the twine using safety pins.

4. Make as many prayer flags as you want. Pin flags, close together, to the same piece of twine.

5. Hang the twine between two trees, on a porch or anywhere the wind can blow through the flags.

References

• Care 2 Make a Difference: Make a Prayer Flag
• Prayer Flags: The Prayer Flag Tradition