In a practical sense, a proper flag fold goes a long way in terms of flag care, maintenance, and storage.

You may not have occasion to fold a flag very often. But it is Army and Navy custom to lower the flag daily, at the last note of retreat. The flag is then folded in a triangle shape.

It is said the shape is similar to that of hats worn by the colonial soldiers. Is the shape a coincidence, or intentional? We'll see.

As a symbolic gesture, flag folding plays an important role in showing respect for the flag and what it represents. It is a moving and meaningful part of many ceremonies, including funeral services and burial rites.

Knowing the basics and a little bit of history will serve you in many ways.

What Is the Proper Way to Fold the American Flag?

For starters, there is no "official" way to fold the American flag.

The U.S. Flag Code is the first place to look for flag display and etiquette. It is full of rules governing when, where, and how to display the US flag, but there are no guidelines on folding.

One reason is because flags vary in size. There is a standard ratio for government flags, but in practical use not all flags maintain the same ratios. Common flag sizes are 12x18 in, 2x3 ft, 2.5x4 ft, 3x5 ft, 4x6 ft, 5x8 ft, and bigger.

Interment flags used for burial services are 5x9.5 ft.

Not every flag will fold into the same shape with the same number of folds.

Since the flag code leaves us searching for answers, we turn to the branches of the military, the VA (Department of Veterans Affairs), American Legion, VFW, and the Boy Scouts of America.

Even the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard all have their own unique variations for handling the flag. (More on that later.)

Our conclusion is that there is no "proper" or "correct" way to fold the American flag. But there is a model and best practice to follow.

Showing respect for the flag and what it represents is what really matters. The actual details leave room for interpretation.

Step by Step: How to Fold the American Flag

Hold the flag stretched out and parallel to the ground

(It helps to maintain tension between the two ends.)

1. Fold in half lengthwise

2. Fold in half again

3. From the fly end, fold a triangle from the folded edge to the open edge

4. Repeat triangle folds toward the canton

5. Continue triangle folds

6. Repeat

7. There are 13 folds in total — keep going

8. Getting close to the end

9. Tuck the remaining edge into the triangle

This is the most common and basic way to fold the American flag.

As we mentioned before, each branch of the military adds their own subtle style to the pomp and circumstance of flag folding.

Here is a great example of a Marine Flag Folding. You might be surprised by the first fold and the end result.

Marine Corps Body Bearers — Respect

Do the Folds of the American Flag Have Meaning?

Yes. The ceremony of folding the American flag carries great meaning and symbolic reference. If you ever had a doubt, watch the Marine Corps Body Bearers above.

But it's a little bit of the chicken or the egg when it comes to what came first.

Were these symbols and meanings planned? Probably not. (There is no evidence that they were.) We believe the 13 folds exist because they work. As time goes by, traditions emerge and people ascribe meaning.

We'll present the most common interpretations and you can apply what works for you.

Respect for the flag and what it represents is what is most important. The details leave room for freedom.

During flag folding ceremonies, a "script" is often read. These scripts embody the symbolism of each fold and its meaning. Here are some popular examples.

13 Folds for the American Flag

Using the method above, there are 13 folds. (As we mentioned before, not every flag is the same size, so it can vary, but 13 is most traditional.)

From the US Department of Veterans Affairs:

"Honoring the burial wishes of veterans is one of the highest commitments for the men and women of VA," said William F. Tuerk, VA's Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs. "A family may request the recitation of words to accompany the meaningful presentation of the American flag as we honor the dedication and sacrifice of their loved ones."

Traditional gravesite military funeral honors include the silent folding and presentation of an American flag, a rifle salute, and the playing of "Taps."

Volunteer honor guards are authorized to read the so-called "13-fold" flag recitation or any comparable script.

"13-Fold Script"

The flag folding ceremony represents the same religious principles on which our country was originally founded. The portion of the flag denoting honor is the canton of blue containing the stars representing the states our veterans served in uniform. The canton field of blue dresses from left to right and is inverted when draped as a pall on a casket of a veteran who has served our country in uniform.

In the Armed Forces of the United States, at the ceremony of retreat the flag is lowered, folded in a triangle fold and kept under watch throughout the night as a tribute to our nation's honored dead. The next morning it is brought out and, at the ceremony of reveille, run aloft as a symbol of our belief in the resurrection of the body.

(Wait for the Honor Guard or Flag Detail to unravel and fold the flag into a quarter fold — resume reading when Honor Guard is standing ready.)

1. The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life.
2. The second fold is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.
3. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain a peace throughout the world.
4. The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.
5. The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."
6. The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
7. The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.
8. The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.
9. The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.
10. The tenth fold is a tribute to father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.
11. The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
12. The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost.

When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, "In God We Trust."

(Wait for the Honor Guard or Flag Detail to inspect the flag — after the inspection, resume reading.)

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

13 Folds for 13 Colonies

You may have heard that the 13 folds represent the 13 colonies that signed the Declaration of Independence and became the first 13 states.

(New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.)

Maybe. Here is a script that promotes the 13 State Symbolism.

Flag Folding Script

Fold 1: The 13 stripes represent the original 13 states: Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island

Fold 2: The 50 stars represent our 50 United States of America

Fold 3: "I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death" — Patrick Henry

Fold 4: "These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman" — Thomas Paine

Fold 5: "We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal. They are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights. Among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" — Declaration of Independence

Fold 6: "We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution of the United States of America" — United States Constitution

Fold 7: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances" — First Amendment

Fold 8: "The basis of our political system is the right of the people to make and to alter their constitutions of government" — George Washington

Fold 9: "My God! How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy!" — Thomas Jefferson

Fold 10: "Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal" — Abraham Lincoln

Fold 11: "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door" — Emma Lazarus, inscription on the Statue of Liberty

Fold 12: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country" — John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Fold 13: "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character" — Martin Luther King, Jr.

Air Force Flag Folding Script

Lt. Col. Samuel Hudspath, Air Force protocol chief, said: "Though there are no official ceremonies in the Air Force that require a script to be read when a flag is folded, unofficial ceremonies such as retirements often do. We have had a tradition within the Air Force of individuals requesting that a flag be folded, with words, at their retirement ceremony."

And here is what they read during flag folding:

For more than 200 years, the American flag has been the symbol of our nation's unity, as well as a source of pride and inspiration for millions of citizens.

Born on June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress determined that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternating between seven red and six white; and that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field representing a new constellation.

Between 1777 and 1960, the shape and design of the flag evolved into the flag presented before you today. The 13 horizontal stripes represent the original 13 colonies, while the stars represent the 50 states of the Union. The colors of the flag are symbolic as well; red symbolizes hardiness and valor; white signifies purity and innocence; and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.

Traditionally, a symbol of liberty, the American flag has carried the message of freedom, and inspired Americans, both at home and abroad.

In 1814, Francis Scott Key was so moved at seeing the Stars and Stripes waving after the British shelling of Baltimore's Fort McHenry that he wrote the words to The Star Spangled Banner.

In 1892 the flag inspired Francis Bellamy to write the "Pledge of Allegiance," our most famous flag salute and patriotic oath.

In July 1969 the American flag was "flown" in space when Neil Armstrong planted it on the surface of the moon.

Today, our flag flies on constellations of Air Force satellites that circle our globe, and on the fin flash of our aircraft in harm's way in every corner of the world. Indeed, it flies in the heart of every Airman who serves our great Nation. The sun never sets on our US Air Force, nor on the flag we so proudly cherish.

Since 1776 no generation of Americans has been spared the responsibility of defending freedom. Today's Airmen remain committed to preserving the freedom that others won for us, for generations to come.

By displaying the flag and giving it a distinctive fold we show respect to the flag, and express our gratitude to those individuals who fought, and continue to fight for freedom, at home and abroad. Since the dawn of the 20th century, Airmen have proudly flown the flag in every major conflict on lands and skies around the world. It is their responsibility — our responsibility — to continue to protect and preserve the rights, privileges and freedoms that we, as Americans, enjoy today.

The United States flag represents who we are. It stands for the freedom we all share and the pride and patriotism we feel for our country. We cherish its legacy, as a beacon of hope to one and all. Long may it wave.

Flag Folding Script Used by the Boy Scouts of America

#1 In honor of the thirteen original colonies and our forefathers who founded this great nation, we salute you.

#2 To the men who died in the War for Independence, we salute you.

#3 To those men who fell in the War of 1812, to preserve our freedom, we salute you.

#4 To the brave soldiers on both sides, The North and The South, in the Civil War, we salute you.

#5 To those who shed their blood in the name of hope and freedom in The Great War, we salute you.

#6 For our fathers and sons who died in the terrible battles of World War Two, Pearl Harbor, Anzio, Midway, The Bulge, Iwo Jima, Guadalcanal, Normandy, and Berlin, we salute you.

#7 To the men of the First Marine Division, who, in a rear guard action at the Chosin Reservoir in Korea saved their battalion and the lives of their brother Marines, we salute you.

#8 For the brave men and women of our armed forces who died on the fields of fire in Vietnam and whose names will live on forever on that hallowed wall, we salute you.

#9 For our commander in chief, who leads our nation in good times, and bad, we salute you.

#10 For the Boy Scouts of America and all the Scouts who have gone before us, we salute you.

#11 To God, our parents and our families who we love and respect, we salute you.

#12 To the men and women of our armed forces, the Arsenal of Democracy and the Hammer of Freedom, we salute you.

#13 And last, to freedom, because without freedom there is no honor, without honor, we are not Americans, and on this we vow, that as long as this flag flies, we salute you.

FAQs

How many times is the American flag folded?

Typically there are 13 folds when folding the American flag. But the American flag is available in many sizes and even a few different ratios, so 13 folds won't always end up in a triangle. In addition, each branch of the military has their own variations and ceremony when folding the flag.

Why is the American flag folded into a triangle?

Common folklore says the flag is folded into a triangle similar to the hats worn by colonial soldiers. It is more likely that the flag is folded into a triangle because it works well. Over time, the process has become ceremonial, showing respect for the flag itself and all that it represents.

Is there a proper way to fold the American flag?

There is no "official" rule to follow when folding the American flag. However, a standard has become common. Generally, there are 13 folds moving from the fly end toward the canton, and ending in a triangle. Practically, this works well for display and storage. It has also become a traditional ceremony performed at important events.

Do the folds of the American flag have meaning?

The short answer is yes, but not officially. There are many scripts that are commonly read during American flag folding ceremonies. The scripts describe the folds and what they represent. The scripts share common themes, but are open for interpretation and there is no universal answer.

Knowing how to properly fold your American Flag is a useful skill. It promotes flag care, maintenance, safe storage, and demonstrates great respect.

Thank you.

And thank you to all veterans who protect and serve the American flag. Check out the Veterans Guide for support and resources.

Specific terms are used to describe parts of the US flag.

Some terms refer to the physical pieces used to assemble the flag, and some terms refer to the elements of the flag, identifying their position and location regarding flag design.

And not every flag is created equally. The flag of the USA can be configured differently for unique applications.

Basic Parts of the American Flag

Glossary

Header (or heading) - The header is a band of material placed on the pole side (hoist) of the flag, it serves to secure the flag to the halyard line. The header is usually made of a thick cotton/poly blend that feels like canvas.

Grommet - A metal ring or eyelet embedded in the header. These are usually made of brass and used to secure an outdoor flag.

Canton - Technically the canton can be any quarter of the flag. In modern flag design it usually refers to the top left corner (upper hoist), which is the position of honor. The canton of the US flag is also called the Union - the blue background where the 50 stars are sewn or appliqued.

Field - the background or predominant color of the flag.

Fly End - The fly end is the edge of the flag furthest away from the pole. The term fly is used to describe the length of the flag, and the fly end is the side that is not secured. By nature, it "flies" freely and endures the most stress or whip.

Position Terms Used to Describe the American Flag

Glossary

Hoist - The term hoist is used to refer to the half (and edge) closest to where the flag is hung. It also refers to the distance from top to bottom of the flag. This is confusing since it is a vertical measurement, but describes the flag's width.

Upper Hoist - Imagine the flag is broken into four quadrants and each quadrant is named for the edges it borders, the upper hoist is the upper left corner.

Lower Hoist - lower left quadrant of the flag, nearest to the flag pole

Fly - The term fly is used to describe the half and edge of the flag that is furthest away from the pole. It can also be used to describe the length (horizontal measurement) of the flag.

Upper Fly - the top quarter of the flag furthest away from the pole

Lower Fly - bottom right quadrant of the flag

Fly End - The fly end is the edge of the flag that is furthest away from the pole - the end that "flies" freely.

Position of Honor - The position of honor is generally the upper hoist. This is also commonly referred to as the canton. Many colony flags use this area to honor their ruling country. Australia is now independent but the flag of Australia 🇦🇺is a good example.

Understanding position is essential to displaying your flag correctly. Our Flag Etiquette guide covers proper orientation, half-staff procedures, and the full US Flag Code.

Banner Style American Flag

US Flags with a pole hem are sometimes called banners. Instead of grommets and a header they are designed so that a sleeve slides over the pole.

These are often used with indoor pole sets, porch flags and parade display.

Glossary

Pole Hem - The term pole hem refers to a sheath on the hoist side used to fit over a pole. In order to create the sleeve, either the main flag material is extended or additional material is added.

When the flag material is extended the colors of the stripes and canton continue and the flag appears to be elongated. If extra material is added it is usually white and looks like a traditional header.

Sleeve - The sleeve is the opening (sheath) on the pole side of the flag that slides over a pole.

Tab - A button-hole will be sewn into the sleeve. It is usually leather and can be found at the top, just inside the sleeve. This tab is used to secure the flag to the pole.

Banner - An American flag with a pole sleeve is often referred to as a banner. The term "banner" is used broadly and includes flags in general, so often the terms are interchangeable. But, historically, a banner is stretched between two points and often has text.

Rope and Thimble Heading

Large flags require more support in the header. The extra weight could cause the header to tear off the flag, so the solution is a rope and thimble. This type of attachment also allows a bigger flag to fly better.

Glossary

Thimble - The thimble is a horse-shoe shaped steel piece with a channel. This is designed to hold a rope. The thimbles are usually made of galvanized steel for strength, durability, and to avoid rust.

Rope - Nylon rope that runs through the header and around each thimble.

Size - Rope and thimble riggings are usually reserved for flags that are 8x12 ft and above. Smaller flags don't require as much support and can be flown with a traditional header and grommets set up.

American Flag Design - What do the Stars, Stripes, and Colors Symbolize?

While we are examining the parts of the US flag - here is a brief explanation of what each part of the flag means.

The flag of the USA has a few nicknames. Sometimes referred to as Old Glory, The Stars and Stripes or The Star Spangled Banner. Over the years there have been many variations. As states have been added to the Union, the flag has evolved. Learn the history of the American Flag.

The original Flag Act of 1777 made no provision for the position of the stars and stripes, which meant it was left up to the imagination of the flag maker.

This freedom produced flags in all shapes, sizes, and combinations. Here is an example from 1845.

This was finally changed in 1912 when President William Howard Taft signed an executive order declaring an official flag design. The current version (50 stars) became official on July 4,1960 and is the longest running American flag design.

So let's take a look.

American Flag Colors

Specifically, the colors are "White", "Old Glory Red", and "Old Glory Blue". Based on color a card published by the JOSA, the colors are specified in terms of fabric.

In order to use official flag colors for screen or print the State Department recommends the following translation.

Contrary to popular myth, the colors of the flag were not chosen for any specific meaning. They were simply inherited from the flag of Great Britain. (King's Colours)

Later, when the seal of the United States was designed, the colors (red, white, and blue) were reused for consistency and specific meanings were assigned.

Reporting to Congress, Charles Thompson (Secretary), described the new Seal as follows:

"The colors of the pales (the vertical stripes) are those used in the flag of the United States of America; White signifies purity and innocence, Red, hardiness & valour, and Blue, the color of the Chief (the broad band above the stripes) signifies vigilance, perseverance & justice."

For this reason, it is common to attribute the same meanings from the Seal to the colors of the American flag.

In 1986, president Ronald Reagan interpreted the colors this way:

"The colors of our flag signify the qualities of the human spirit we Americans cherish. Red for courage and readiness to sacrifice; white for pure intentions and high ideals; and blue for vigilance and justice."

American Flag - Official Dimensions and Ratios Explained

Official US flag dimensions are spelled out in the US Code. Title 4, Chapter 1, is called The Flag, and is commonly referred to as the US Flag Code.

One important note. The "official" dimensions apply to the executive branch of Government and are required for flags that are displayed in specific government areas. Flags that adhere to these dimensions are considered G-Spec or Government Specified.

The sizes most people fly are 12x18 in, 2x3 ft, 2.5x4 ft, 3x5 ft, 4x6 ft and 5x8 ft.

Not sure which size fits your pole or space? Our American Flag Size Chart covers all standard dimensions with recommended pole heights and guidance on choosing the right size.

If you take a closer look, you will notice when the flag is in G-Spec ratio:

US Flag Design - What Do the Stars and Stripes Represent?

We have already dissected the flag into parts, now it's time to explain the meaning behind each symbol.

From the US Flag Code: Section1

The flag of the United States shall have thirteen horizontal stripes, alternate red and white, and a union consisting of white stars on a field of blue

 

Thirteen Stripes

The 13 Stripes on the American flag represent the 13 original colonies/states of Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Virginia.

There are 7 red stripes alternating with 6 white stripes - red on top and bottom. The stripes are of equal width and run horizontally.

Francis Hopkinson is given credit for the first United States flag design.

Hopkinson actually designed two flags, one for the Navy and one for the U.S. government. The only difference between the two flags was the order of the stripes. The naval flag started with a red stripe and the government started with a white stripe on top.

Some speculate that red eventually took its place on top and bottom for practical reasons, white would show more wear and tear.

Fifty Stars

The 50 white stars of the flag represent each of the 50 states in the United States.

Originally, the stars were to signify a "new constellation". As the number of stars changed with the addition of new states, so did the arrangement of stars on the flag.

The current arrangement is 9 rows. The rows are slightly offset, alternating 6 stars in a row on top and bottom with 5 star rows between. Each star should be aligned with a single point on top.

In 1958, Robert Heft was a high school student. The stars of Hawaii and Alaska were being added to the flag and new design submissions were being accepted.

Heft submitted his design as a class assignment. His teacher, Stanley Pratt, gave him a B- for the design, saying "it lacked imagination".

The two made a deal that if the design was accepted by Congress, Taft would change the grade to an A. Heft's design was chosen by Congress and President Dwight D. Eisenhower from over 1500 submissions, and the rest is history.

When the time comes, Heft has a design for an American Flag with 51 stars.

Significance of the Five-Pointed Star

Before it was introduced in the design of the United States Flag, the five-pointed star was rarely used in Heraldry.

Heraldry is the study, design, and display of armorial bearings. Flags often take their design from military influence and heraldic devices. In the 18th Century, it was much more common to use a six-pointed star.

Francis Hopkins' original designs did include six-pointed stars. And since the Flag Act of 1777 was so vague, flag makers were free to interpret the Stars and Stripes design and arrangement.

Which leads us to the myth and legend of Betsy Ross.

In 1776, Colonel George Washington, George Ross (Betsy's great uncle), and Robert Morris, approached an upholsterer named Betsy Ross to commission a flag.

The delegation presented a design with 6-pointed stars. (Supposedly, they preferred 5-pointed stars, but thought it would be difficult to mass produce.)

According to legend, Betsy Ross presented an easy way to make a five-pointed star with just one scissor cut and the new design was born.

Ross is also attributed with placing the13 stars in a circle.

This is where fact and myth get murky. No evidence comes directly from anyone involved and there was no documentation of those events until nearly 100 years later.

Also, the oldest representation of the "Betsy Ross" flag is from 1792, in a painting by John Trumbull.

While the complete design is in question, it is likely that Betsy Ross deserves credit for the the 5-pointed star modification. Five-pointed stars are now more commonly used in flags and in Western culture have become synonymous with fame or "stardom".

FAQs

Which end is the fly end of the flag?

The fly end is the edge of the flag furthest away from the pole. The term fly is used to describe the length of the flag, and the fly end is the side that is not secured. By nature, it "flies" freely and endures the most stress or whip.

What part of a flag is the canton?

Technically the canton can be any quarter of the flag. In modern flag design it usually refers to the top left corner (upper hoist), which is the position of honor. The canton of the US flag is also called the Union - the blue background where the 50 stars are sewn or appliqued.

What is a grommet on a flag?

A grommet is a metal ring or eyelet embedded in the header. These are usually made of brass and used to secure an outdoor flag.

Do the 13 stripes on the American flag have meaning?

The 13 Stripes on the American flag represent the 13 original colonies/states of Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Virginia.

There are 7 red stripes alternating with 6 white stripes - red on top and bottom. The stripes are of equal width and run horizontally.

What do the fifty stars on the US flag represent?

The 50 white stars of the flag represent each of the 50 states in the United States.

Who designed the arrangement for the 50 stars on the US flag?

The current arrangement of 9 rows of stars was designed by a high school student named Robert Heft. He submitted the design for a class project and Congress ultimately adopted the configuration. Heft already has a design in mind for the 51st star.

Ready to fly one? Shop our Made in USA American flags — nylon flags from 12x18 in to 8x12 ft, FMAA certified.

THE END

Come to think of it, what fabrics are used to make a flag?

There are many factors that contribute to a flag’s overall look, feel, performance, and durability. (Not to mention price.)

Construction plays a major role in overall flag quality, but today we will focus solely on the heart of a flag, its material. 

No two flags are alike. Each flag has a personality in the way it appears and moves. So what part does fabric play?

Most cloth flags are made of nylon, polyester, or cotton. (Historically, other flag materials included silk, wool, and linen.) Each of these fabrics has its own characteristics, varying in thickness, weave, and weight. And every material was designed for a specific use.

Does a wool flag sounds unusual?

We spotted this ad in the family copy of the 1902 Sears, Roebuck, and Co. catalog.

The Challenge: To choose the best flag material, you must consider the environment where the flag will be displayed and the performance you want.

An indoor flag will be displayed and viewed up close. In this case you may want a classic, soft, rich, vibrant fabric.On the other hand, maybe your flag will fly behind a boat exposed to extreme conditions: high wind and salt water.

Outdoor flags serve in harm's way. There are many factors at work on an outdoor flag that you may not have considered.

Conditions That May Effect an Outdoor Flag

Before we get ahead of ourselves...

Two Types of Flag

Printed Flags are usually one piece of material printed on one or both sides. They tend to be made of thin, lightweight fabric and are most often the cheapest option.

Printed flags are thin, flat and one dimensional. The type of ink and method of printing will factor into the vibrance and longevity of printed flags.

Fully Sewn Flags, on the other hand, are made of many pieces of fabric assembled and stitched together. (That’s why construction, i.e. lock stitching vs. chain stitching is so important).

Added labor and time makes sewn flags more expensive. And since a quality flag is a bigger investment it is helpful to understand how different fabrics perform.

 For sake of example, let's consider a fully sewn and embroidered American flag.

A sewn American flag is assembled from several pieces. The material parts consist of the heading (header), the canton (or star field), the stars, and stripes. (Here is guide to understanding the parts of the American flag.)

The heading is the side piece that is used for attachment. (Attachment methods may vary. For example are grommets, thimble, or pole hem.) Most often the header is made of a heavy duty duck cloth blend that feels like canvas.

The header bears the load when flying, so strength is the issue here, but most manufacturers use similar material and it is not a significant issue in flag choice.

What distinguishes a flag is the material used for the field, or stripes, stars, and background.

So let’s explore each fabric choice and what they have to offer.

Nylon 

Nylon (6,6) is a synthetic polymer that can be melt-processed into fiber. It was the first introduced by DuPont in the 1930s to great success. The first commercial use was for bristles on a toothbrush. Later, nylon became a revolutionary solution for women's stockings. Hence the term nylons. They were so popular it eventually led to the nylon riots.

Anyway, because it is strong and lightweight, during World War II, it was discovered that nylon was well-suited for use in parachutes and para-cord. This opened up many new applications for the synthetic fiber. Today, nylon is used in clothes, tents, seat belts, tarps, rope, nets, flags, etc.

Why Nylon is the Most Popular Flag Material

Nylon can be manufactured in many forms. When woven and blended with other fabrics it has many properties that make it hard to beat when it comes to flag material.

Properties and Characteristics of Nylon

As we mentioned before the most important factor in choosing the best flag material is to match the fabric to the intended use. All of the above characteristics make nylon an ideal fabric for outdoor flags. 

Benefits of a Nylon Flag

§6. Time and occasions for display

(a) It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24  hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

(c) The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all weather flag is displayed. 

These days, many flags are flying 24/7 in all kinds of weather. If that's the case you can't go wrong with a well made nylon flag.

Polyester 

Polyester is a synthetic (petroleum based) material. Made from various polymers, it is a material type called polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Discovered while continuing the project that led to nylon, polyester was patented in 1941.

Polyesters include naturally occurring chemicals (derived from plants) as well as synthetic chemicals. While natural polys are biodegradable, most synthetic polyesters are not biodegradable. It takes more than 200 years to decompose.

Basically, polyester is plastic.

Like nylon, polyester is melt-spun. This process allows the fibers to be made in different shapes and sizes for specific applications. 

Properties and Characteristics of Polyester

Polyester In Flags

Polyester has many qualities that are great for flags. It can also be blended with natural fibers to get the benefits of both.

One common application is 2-ply poly in an open weave. An open weave allows air to pass through, which reduces friction and lowers fabric stress. Increasing durability and longevity for a flag.

For this reason, Poly is a good choice for large flags, commercial use and ideal for high wind situations.

Poly flags are the most durable outdoor flag in most conditions. But durability comes at a cost. Poly flags are also the most expensive.

 Cotton

The third option is cotton. Cotton grows naturally in the form of bolls on cotton plants. The fiber is spun into yarn or thread and used to make soft, breathable textiles. Cotton has been used to make fabric for 1000s of years.

Before synthetic fibers, most flags were made of cotton.

Properties and Characteristics of Cotton

The Majesty of Cotton Flags

Nylon and poly offer advantages for outdoor flags. That is undeniable. Both are more durable, last longer, and easier to maintain than cotton.

That aside, a cotton flag has a certain elegance that is undeniable. It is a sentimental favorite among purists.

Both nylon and poly can be made in different sheen or luster. Cotton maintains a low luster which has a natural softness. It also possesses the most natural draping quality which makes it most suitable for indoor display.

Ceremonial Flag Fabric

Ceremonies deserve and command a level of respect. They're also usually a single event and do not require durability. That's makes fabric choice easy.

We recommend cotton for ceremonial flag fabric. 

It is common after burial service to present the survivors with the casket flag. It will be folded and often displayed to honor the loss. 

For close display and handling cotton is the sentimental favorite.

Material Terms and Description

Manufacturers use technical terms to describe the qualities of fabric.

DENIER

One term that is often used regarding nylon is denier. Denier (D) is a textile unit of measurement. Without getting too technical, it is a way of comparing a fiber's linear mass, or weight.

Put simply, denier is the weight in grams of 9000 meters of a fiber. The unit is based on silk. Silk is 1 denier which means 9000 meters of a single strand of silk weighs 1 gram.

Most nylon used in flags is around 200 D. This is a good balance of strength for durability and still lightweight enough for flyability.

OXFORD CLOTH

Oxford cloth is not unique to the textile. It is a process that can be used  with cotton, or a synthetic blend. Two fine filaments are woven together to produce a basket weave pattern.

The result is added strength and a fabric that breathes, allowing air to pass through. It is said to have a silklike lustrous appearance. 

2-PLY

2-Ply is a term often used to describe polyester. "Ply" refers to the number of yarns woven together to make a single thread. When a thread is made of two pieces it adds strength when woven into a textile.

Material Content Must Be Labeled on a Flag

U.S. Textile and Wool Acts

The US Textile and Wool Act requires that flags with a heading or that are bigger than 216 square inches (12x18 in) must be labeled to show:

• Country of origin
• Manufacturer name or RN number
• Material Content

The Flag Manufacturers Association of America FMAA is dedicated to certifying that American flags adhere to the US Textile and Wool Act and are Made in the USA. We are proud members of the FMAA. When you choose your flag, look for certification.

 Conclusion

Material is an important consideration in choosing a flag.

The American flag is a living symbol and the fabric is the very soul. The look, feel, movement, and longevity all come from the material.

There are many good options covering a wide range of uses. To make the best choice, you must match fabric to use. Consider the environment and what you'd like your flag to represent.

If you are choosing an outdoor flag, what is your climate? How severe is the weather? Do you plan on flying your flag daily? 24/7? Or will you preserve the flag only flying in fair weather, special occasions, and holidays.

We put together the chart below to help make your decision. 

Flag Material Comparison Chart

Ultimately, it is a personal choice. 

FAQs

What is the  most durable flag material?

What is the best flag material?

Is nylon or poly a better flag material?

Thanks for your interest.

THE END

Quick Guide on How to Display Your Flag

Protocol for hanging the American flag and the 8 ways people get it wrong -

The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

In general the flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset, but may be displayed 24 hours if properly illuminated during hours of darkness

 The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all-weather flag is displayed. Your Fine Line Flag was made to be an all-weather flag.

 When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union (stars) should be on top and to the flag's own right, that is, to the observer's left.

The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.

The flag should not be draped over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle or of a railroad train or boat. When the flag is displayed on a motorcar, the staff shall be fixed firmly to the chassis or clamped to the right fender.

DON’TS

Do not let the flag touch the ground.

Do not fly flag upside down unless there is an emergency.

Do not carry the flag flat, or carry things in it.

Do not use the flag as clothing.

Do not store the flag where it can get dirty.

Do not use it as a cover.

Do not fasten it or tie it back. Always allow it to fall free.

Do not draw on, or otherwise mark the flag.

HALF STAFF

What does it mean?

Flying the U.S. flag at half-staff (also called "half mast") is an expression of honor and respect for the dead.

The way you do it is when you attach the flag to the halyard, raise it all the way up and hesitate for a second before you bring it down to half-staff. If it is already up, simply bring it down to half-staff. You never attach the flag to the halyard and simply raise it to half-staff. It always goes to the top first.

In addition to these regular remembrances, The US flag is flown half-mast for the following:

30 days after the death of a current or former president

10 days after the death of a current vice president, current Speaker of the House or current/retired chief justice.