Flags have been used to show patriotism and support for sports teams, commemorate special events, celebrate holidays, and display allegiance to an organization. Flags can be flown or hung indoors or outside, displayed on vehicles or carried at events.
There are a lot of options when it comes to flags. Sizes, shapes, colors, materials, uses, and displays vary widely. When shopping for a flag online, you’ll have access to an almost limitless assortment of flags, more than any brick-and-mortar store could ever display.
Where Will You Display It?
Think about where the flag will be flown or displayed. Will it hang on a wall, fly from a flagpole outside your home, adorn your car or truck, or be carried in a parade or ceremony? Is it meant for a special event or ceremony? Will it be flown outside in all kinds of weather? Here are some common uses for flags:
- For the home – outside on the porch or in the garden
- For display in an office or on a wall
- For special occasions or holidays
- To represent an interest or hobby, such as sports
- For memorial or special events or ceremonies
- For display in the classroom, at an event or to represent an organization
Flags meant for use outside will be more durable than those intended for display inside. And flags intended for special events may not need to be as heavy duty as a flag that will be flown continuously outside.
What Is the Flag Made to Handle?
Most flags are made from synthetic fabric that is lightweight, retains its color, and dries quickly. Heavier fabric is more durable but requires more wind to fly properly. Lightweight flags can flutter in less windy conditions. Learn more about flag fabric and what it means here.
Some flags are printed on only one side of the fabric. On single-layer flags this will result in a reverse image on the backside of the flag. Double layer flags or flags made up of two separate pieces of fabric will display the correct image on both sides.
Quality flags will be sewn with strong thread and may have extra stitching or reinforcement around the edges and at points that may experience more stress or wear and tear.
Do the Size and Hardware Match?
It’s important to get a flag that’s the right size for the area in which it will be flown or displayed. Common sizes are grouped in one catalog at Ultimate Flags – Online Flag Store, though if your dimensions are already settled, simply measure the outdoor display area to make sure the flag won’t be too big or too small for the space.
Keep in mind the length of the flagpole, clearance from bushes or railings, and distance from sidewalks. If you’re hanging a flag on your home, you’ll want to make sure there’s plenty of room for the flag to wave in the wind without hitting or rubbing against windows, siding or other parts of the home.
For flags that will be displayed indoors, consider the size of the wall or area in which the flag will be hung and how far away viewers will be standing. A smaller flag may be lost on a big wall or be difficult to see from across a large room.
You probably won’t need to worry too much about getting the perfect size flag if you’re buying handheld flags for a special event. But if you’re buying a flag for continuous or seasonal display, especially outside, taking the time to make a few measurements can save you the hassle of returning an item that’s too big or too small.
Don’t Forget the Accessories
Depending on the type of flag you’re buying and how you plan to display it, you may need a flagpole, special clips or hardware, rings or grommets, or a stand. Before you buy your flag, make sure you know:
- How many grommets the flag has and where they’re located
- If the flag comes with a sleeve to fit over a flagpole
- What size flagpole will the flag fit on, if applicable?
- If additional hardware is required and not included to display the flag
- How the flag will attach to a pole, if applicable
What Will the Weather Do to It?
If you plan to fly your flag outside, you’ll want to consider the conditions in your area and the general weather background provided at www.wmo.int/topics/weather. Rain isn’t usually as damaging to flags as wind, which can cause large flags or those on tall poles to snap open and closed repeatedly, wearing down seams and corners. Bright colors can fade in intense sun and flags that get wet frequently and don’t have time to dry completely between storms can develop stains.
Which Flag Fits the Job?
The best flag isn’t necessarily the biggest, most ornate, or most expensive; it’s the one that will look great in the space you have available, is easy to install, and will get the amount of use you need out of it. Be sure to review all measurements, flagpole requirements, and product descriptions carefully before placing your order.
Jot down the dimensions of your flag display area, the type of flagpole you have, and the size and style of the flag you’ll need before you start shopping so you’re sure to find the perfect flag.