Flag Terminology
Printed vs Fully Sewn Flag Construction: A printed flag is an image that is printed onto the nylon material. A sewn flag is made by joining the individual pieces of the 13 red and white stripes with thread.
Chain vs Lock Stitch Construction: A chain-stitched flag works like any chain: if you break one link, the entire chain breaks. That won’t happen with a lock-stitched flag.
Flag Size: To ensure you choose the right size for your American flag, here is a chart to determine the right flag for your flagpole.
Nylon: The nylon material is lightweight and durable, making this our most popular flag. – MOST POPULAR
Polyester: The polyester material looks cotton-like and is heavier than nylon. It is recommended for high-wind areas because it can withstand more abuse. – BEST FOR HIGH WINDS
Cotton: The cotton flag is commonly used for ceremonies where the flag is not displayed outside for an extended period of time. The 5 x 9½ size American flag is used to drape over a casket. – VINTAGE STYLE
G-SPEC Flag: The G-SPEC flag is for use by the US federal government. The sizes are made to the official government hoist-fly ratio of 1:1.9. The star fields are larger and mostly purchased for display at military bases.
Header vs. Sleeve: Headers and sleeves refer to the finish of the flag. Learn the difference between a flag header and a sleeve.
FAQ on our American Flag Collection:
Q: Why do you offer so many different types of American flags?
A: Everyone has priorities. We offer everything from the name-brand Annin American flags to the economical poly/cotton American flags. We also have American flags with fringe for use on indoor flag poles. Some of our flags are for niche uses, such as for use on a nautical flag pole or to be flown at military bases. We carry the right flag type for you, depending on the use and budget. All US flags we sell are made in America.
Q: What is a nautical flagpole, and do you fly a nautical flag on it?
A: A nautical flagpole looks like the mast of a ship, which makes it a good option for marinas, yacht clubs, and seafront restaurants and shops. The classic US flag sizes are flown from this type of pole. Nautical American flags are made to be flown on an actual ship and run smaller than regular flags. So, no, you do not fly nautical flags on nautical flagpoles.
Q: Why are the indoor American flags the only ones available with a gold fringe?
A: The fringe is made of a different material than the flag itself. This material doesn't withstand outdoor elements the way the flag does and should only be used indoors.
Q: Do the printed & chain-stitched outdoor United States flags last as long as the fully sewn & lock-stitched United States flags?
A: No, the sewn American flag has more reinforcement than the printed flag.
Q: What is the standard-size flag?
A: The standard flag size is 3' x 5' or 36" x 60". Determine the right size flag for your flagpole.
History and Meaning of the American Flag
Q: What does the flag of the United States represent?
A: The national flag of the United States represents the independence and freedom of our country and its citizens. The alternating red and white stripes represent the thirteen original colonies, and the white stars represent the 50 states of the Union.
Q: What do the colors of the USA flag mean?
A: The colors of the United States flag all have their own significance. The white symbolizes purity & innocence. The red represents hardiness and valor. The blue field represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. Learn more about the American flag and its meaning.
Q: When was the official flag of the United States adopted?
A: The Continental Congress passed an act adopting the Stars and Stripes flag as the official national flag on June 14, 1777. The decision “resolved that the flag of the United States shall be thirteen stripes alternating red and white, that the union be thirteen white stars in a blue background, representing a new constellation.” Congress passed several acts between 1777 and 1960 allowing stars to be added in the representation of new states. Today, the thirteen stripes alternate red and white, and the canton consists of 50 stars.
Q: Why do we stand and face the United States of America's national flag during our national anthem and Pledge of Allegiance?
A: On June 14, 1923, the National Flag Conference was held in Washington, where the Army, Navy, and other national groups adopted their own official flag etiquette to stand and face the flag, remove their caps, and put their right hand over their heart during the "Star Spangled Banner”. On June 22, 1942, it became public law as a code of conduct known as "The United States Flag Code." The code is a guide to displaying our white stars and 13 stripes, but it does not impose penalties for misuse of our official flag.
Q: How do you dispose of an American flag?
A: There is more than one to do this. There are flag-burning ceremonies, flag burials, and flag-shedding. Be respectful, in general. We have more details about the process on our blog.
