Explaining flag formats

Our traditional sewn flags are made using quality MOD spec run resistant woven polyester and our printed flags using quality knit polyester (NOT sheet nylon).

Each flag is finished with a strong canvas, rope and toggle, triple sewn fly end and supplied with a complimentary shower proof drawstring flag bag for safe keeping.

Where flags are fully SEWN with detail, applique is sewn through a layer giving a sewn mirror image on reverse. Where there is large detail, it would only be possible to make the fully sewn flag at certain sizes.

Where flags are part-SEWN part-PRINTED, a sewn woven polyester base is sewn and hemmed and the detail (badge, emblem etc.) is printed twice and sewn to each side of the flag around the detail (bagged).

Where flags are fully PRINTED, flags are single layered, printed through with mirror image on reverse.

To single or double layer your flag, that is the question....

Flags formats and what works best for you

Single layer

Flags are by definition lightweight and required to float in the wind.  The single layer print or stitched through format with a mirror image on reverse is the standard format. 

Remember a flag is a moving object and any text or image is easily recognisable in both left to right and mirror image format because of the constant movement of the fabric. This is the only format of standard flag application we recommend.

Double layer (bagged)

Double layered flags are less common than single layered flags and are made by taking two printed or sewn flags and sewing them together with a block-out liner between the two outer layers. Each side will read correctly with minimal light showing through and double layered flags can be used indoors or outdoors. However, the extra weight may affect their flying and make them sag or "pillow". 

From years of trial and error in supplying insistent clients with this format despite our own reservations, without exception the feedback is always that a single layer print through format would have been much more suitable. We therefore do not recommend or indeed make / supply flags in this format.

Banners

Single layer

When displaying a printed single layered banner, the back will show the mirror image. Most banners are produced in this manner. As they are lighter in weight, they will "flutter" in the wind, which will catch the passerby’s eye; this is one of the purposes of the banner.

Double layer (bagged)

Double layered banners read correctly on both sides. They usually include a third layer of lining made of either lightweight Tyvek* (*cannot be exposed to high heat through ironing or drying) or the heavier and more lightfast blockout nylon to minimise light showing through. Since double-sided banners are typically displayed with tension, the extra weight only minimally affects its flying. However, the banner arms may be affected as the banner weight is significant greater with double-sided banners. As well, they require more care in laundering and drying if necessary.

Feather Flags

Single layer

As with banners and flags, single layered feather flags are the most common and the mirror image shows on the back.

Double layer (bagged)

Double layered feather flags will read correctly on both sides but are less common than single layer. The double layered feather flags consist of two printed flags sewn together with a liner to make them more opaque. Depending on how the feather flag attaches to its hardware, the flying can be affected by the extra weight of the layers. Double layered feather flags may also have "pillowing".