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What Is the Proper Way to Fold an American Flag?

Published on
March 25, 2022 at 9:16:07 AM PDT March 25, 2022 at 9:16:07 AM PDTth, March 25, 2022 at 9:16:07 AM PDT

In other words, how to fold an American flag so that it becomes a blue triangle with stars? In order to respect the flag code, you have to fold the flag so that it shows no red. 


Here is a list of the steps you need to take in order to get this final result.


Lowering the Flag from the Pole


If you are taking your flag off the flagpole, then your actions of properly folding the flag begin by hoisting down the flag in the right way. 


Loosen the line and lower the Old Glory slowly and respectfully. Be careful with it because the flag is not to touch the ground. When it is close to the ground, remove the flag from the line.


Help Is (Not) Needed


You can fold the flag with or without your friend or family member. What is important is that the flag does not touch the ground. If you don’t have a partner, you can lay the flag out on a clean and dry surface. For instance, a dining table could be used for this purpose.


Of course, place the flag face up, making sure the Union is to the left of the observer’s eye.



Basic Steps When Folding the American Flag


FlagFirst, straighten the flag in a regular horizontal position. It should be wrinkle-free and feel smooth. Then, fold the lower striped part of the flag so that its edges cover the Union (open edge). Basically, fold the flag lengthwise.


When working with a helper, hold one corner of the flag at waist height while they hold another. Make it parallel to the ground.


Fold the folded edge once more so that it meets the open edge. The Union should still remain outward in full view. In case your flag is larger than usual, maybe you will have to do this fold one more time.


Triangular Fold Begins


Now, it’s time to start making that triangle. Take the corner of the folded edge with stripes and bring it to the open edge. Now you have made an asymmetrical flag. Take that folded corner, and turn the outer point inward, providing it is parallel to the open edge. You have just formed another triangle, but it is “inside” the flag and the flag has regained its overall rectangular look.


Throughout the whole process, make sure there is no unevenness or wrinkles on the material.


Finishing Touches


Continue in the same fashion until you have folded the whole flag into a single triangle showing the Union.


Basically, what you should have ended with is a flag in the shape of a three-corner hat. This is to remind us of the soldiers who served America under General George Washington and Captain John Paul Jones since such hats were part of their military apparel.


In total, there should be 13 folds symbolizing 13 original states, and each folding of the flag carries a special meaning.


Where Can You Store Your American Flag?


A nice way to store the Old Glory could be a display case (triangle-shaped, of course). You can also store it in your closet, but make sure that it is not mixed up with your clothes. Check out our top-selling flag cases made by Americans in the U.S.A. 


Are You Looking to Buy a New American Flag?


With over 40 years of experience in the flag industry, Carrot-Top Industries has been helping out organizations, businesses, and governmental entities with all their flags needs. Our most popular flag sizes include the 5x8 ft Polyester American flag and the 3x5 ft Nylon American flag. Explore our Polyester American Flags and Nylon American Flags for a complete list of flag sizes. For any questions, please call us at (800) 628-3524.